Australian Tourism Export Council has praised the Australian Government’s steadfast backing of Tourism Australia, with funding reaffirmed in the recent Federal Budget. As a cornerstone of the export tourism sector, Tourism Australia plays an essential role in showcasing Australia to international audiences and driving the influx of global visitors. This ongoing support ensures the organization can continue its vital mission of boosting the country’s tourism industry and enhancing its global appeal.

“Securing consistent funding for Tourism Australia is essential for effectively promoting destination Australia, which is crucial for the industry’s recovery and long-term growth,” ATEC Managing Director Peter Shelley said. 

“As the industry rebuilds in a changed global environment, businesses are adapting to more diverse markets and travellers which require not just strong marketing, but targeted support to compete and grow. 

Mr Shelley acknowledged the Budget’s support for Rex Airlines as a positive step that recognises the critical role regional aviation plays in supporting Australia’s tourism industry, but noted the Budget offered little in the way of broader support for tourism initiatives and business recovery. 

“As one of Australia’s leading export sectors, tourism needs targeted investment to rebuild international distribution networks, strengthen aviation access, and address persistent workforce shortages. 

“With an election on the horizon, we urge all parties to prioritise policies that support Australia’s export tourism industry and the thousands of businesses and jobs it sustains.” 

As the Federal Election draws near, the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) continues to champion the need for strategic investments that will support the sector’s full recovery and bolster Australia’s economic growth. ATEC’s 2025 Policy Pillars highlight several key areas of focus, including:

Driving Market Demand – Ensuring ongoing and increased funding for Tourism Australia to boost demand in emerging and untapped markets.
Enhancing Air Access – Investing in regional aviation infrastructure and fostering airline collaborations to improve travel accessibility and affordability.
Tackling Labour & Skills Gaps – Expanding training programs, creating targeted visa options, and offering incentives to attract skilled professionals to the sector.
Revitalizing Distribution Channels – Reconnecting industry buyers and sellers while strengthening the link to the Approved Destination Scheme (ADS).
Building Industry Capability & Competitiveness – Advancing ATEC’s market-specific Host training programs and launching a Digital Uplift Program to promote innovation and industry growth.
Streamlining the Tourism Visa Process – Creating a dedicated visa inquiry lane and improving visa processing to ensure faster and more efficient entry for visitors.

These initiatives are designed to strengthen Australia’s tourism industry, ensuring it remains competitive and poised for long-term success.

“This Budget is clearly focused on cost-of-living relief and voter priorities, but as we move toward a Federal Election, both major parties have the opportunity to turn their attention to one of Australia’s top-performing export sectors.  

“Through well-targeted policy commitments, they can directly support the growth of our international tourism industry – delivering greater success for the Australian economy.” 

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