As Australia’s tourism export industry continues to recover, the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) is urging both major parties to prioritize policies that support rebuilding the sector, reconnect businesses with global markets, and enhance Australia’s competitiveness.

In its newly released 2025 Policy Pillars, ATEC outlines key industry-driven priorities essential for a sustainable and competitive future. These include improving air access, workforce development, strengthening international distribution networks, investing in destination marketing, supporting digital transformation, and implementing visa reforms.

ATEC Managing Director Peter Shelley emphasized that the 2025 Policy Platform is based on direct industry feedback, ensuring it addresses the ongoing challenges faced by export tourism businesses, including workforce shortages, high operating costs, and difficulties in re-engaging international markets.

“Australia’s inbound tourism sector is still in recovery, facing ongoing challenges that limit its full potential,” Mr Shelley said. 

The next Federal Government must provide targeted support for tourism by strengthening aviation, investing in marketing, rebuilding distribution channels, and enhancing workforce development.

“Without strong government backing, we risk losing the progress made in reconnecting with key international markets, rebuilding our workforce, and maintaining our competitive edge to restore the sector’s full potential.”

Tourism remains one of Australia’s largest export industries, with inbound visitors contributing over $32 billion in spending and supporting more than 350,000 businesses, including over 100,000 in regional areas. As global competition intensifies, strategic policy support is essential to drive inbound recovery, create jobs, and unlock Australia’s full potential.

ATEC’s 2025 Policy Pillars focus on key areas to strengthen and sustain Australia’s tourism industry:

• Enhancing Air Access – Investing in regional aviation infrastructure and airline partnerships to improve connectivity and affordability.
• Tackling Labour & Skills Shortages – Expanding workforce training, introducing targeted visa pathways, and providing incentives to attract skilled workers.
• Rebuilding Distribution & Boosting Demand – Sustaining Tourism Australia funding, reconnecting buyers and sellers, and revitalizing industry engagement with the Approved Destination Scheme (ADS).
• Strengthening Industry Capability & Competitiveness – Supporting ATEC’s market-specific Host training programs and launching a Digital Uplift Program to drive innovation.
• Improving the Tourism Visa System – Establishing a dedicated visa inquiry lane and ensuring faster, more efficient visa processing.

Tourism fuels jobs and economic growth nationwide, from bustling cities to remote regional communities. ATEC is urging both major parties to recognize the industry’s vital role and commit to policies that will drive recovery, expand opportunities, and solidify Australia’s position as a world-class tourism destination.

As the Federal Election approaches, ATEC will continue working with government and industry stakeholders, advocating for policies that enhance business resilience and support long-term growth.

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