Australia trials new visa rules for Chinese travellers

Prime Minister Turnbull’s announcement of improved visa arrangements for Chinese tourists has been described as a “strong step forward” in supporting the growth of the valuable inbound market.

In Shanghai for Australia Week in China, Turnbull declared 2017 the year of Australian/Chinese tourism, with events and initiatives in both countries aimed at encouraging visitors at either end.

“The more Chinese come to Australia, Australians go to China, the closer we become together, the better we understand each other,” he told reporters at Shanghai’s Expo Centre on Thursday.

The number of visa categories will be reduced from eight to two, making it easier for Chinese students to study in Australia. Visas valid for 10 years will also be introduced along with visa applications in Mandarin – the first time they have been in another language.

A new smartphone-friendly digital platform will focus on selling Australia to China’s 700 million smartphone users.

“It makes Australia more accessible, more available, more compelling as a tourism destination,” Turnbull said

Speaking from the Shanghai, Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) managing director Peter Shelley said the announcement would be welcomed by the industry.

“Chinese visitors pose a huge and growing opportunity for our industry and Australian tourism businesses are already well engaged in this market, which grew by a staggering 21% in visitor numbers last year alone,” he said.

“One of the key issues our members regularly raise is keeping our competitive edge in the face of fierce competition from alternate destinations, many of whom have made significant policy adjustments to expedite visa application processes for Chinese visitors.”

Shelley described the creation of a Mandarin language visa application as a “huge positive” for the market which would help Australia to standout as a destination for Chinese visitors.

“Reducing red tape and making it easy for Chinese visitors to say ‘yes’ to Australia is an important element of ensuring we continue to see the outstanding growth in visitation and spend from this market,” he said.

“With the Chinese market now worth over $8.3 billion and growing at around 45% year on year, we can’t afford to ignore these barriers to success.”

Shelley also welcomed the new $6 million joint marketing campaign between Tourism Australia and Air China along with the focus on tourism announced for 2017.

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Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

atec china peter shelley tourism visas