Victoria seeking new ways to grow its tourism industry

The Andrews Labor Government will look to find new ways to grow tourism and support regional Victoria, through a review into the regional tourism industry. The Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula said tourism was one of regional Victoria’s most important industries, with 40 per cent of total tourism employment based outside Melbourne — creating jobs and helping local economies thrive.Regional Victoria is unrivalled when it comes to things to do, see, explore and taste, yet international visitors make up just 3 per cent of overnight visitors to the regions compared to 22 per cent in Melbourne.International expenditure and overnight visitation in our regions has also declined by 2.6 per cent and 1.4 per cent respectively over the past 12 months.In light of this, the Labor Government has ordered the Regional Tourism Review to ensure our regions are being offered the best support and opportunities to grow visitation and boost local businesses.There are also many opportunities to boost overnight stays and expenditure from Melbourne visitors to the regions. To do this, the Regional Tourism Review will look at opportunities to better support tourism in the regions, enhance private investment and create more regional jobs.