TTF held its annual hotel and tourism policy summit, Outlook09, last week at the Shangri-La Hotel in Sydney. Bringing together industry leaders from across the country, Outlook09 had a clear focus on survival during, and emergence from, the global financial crisis. The key message from the summit was the need for a continued focus on the balance between marketing and investment in infrastructure as well as strong industry unity to engage governments in policy partnerships. Highlights of the morning session included NSW Premier Nathan Rees and Planning Minister Kristina Keneally acknowledging the critical need for an expansion of the Sydney Convention Centre. Mr Rees pledged not to sell off an adjacent car park which would have ruled out any possible expansion plans - this follows strong advocacy by TTF. Minister Keneally's commitment to developing Australia's best planning system was welcomed, including guidance to local councils to integrate tourism in their local environment plans. The Minister also confirmed that a new committee would advise on options for a new cruise shipping terminal in Sydney and invited TTF to be part of the task force. The Minister reiterated that a minimum allocation of tourism development was crucial to the success of the Barangaroo precinct and would be honoured. In an animated address, SA Infrastructure and Transport Minister, Patrick Conlon, also expressed a commitment to upgrade the Adelaide convention centre once South Australia recovers some of its lost revenues, and he highlighted the critical role of key transport links to adequately service destinations. Respected economist and founder of Access Economics, Geoff Carmody presented his view of the Australian tourism economy. Mr Carmody's key message is that as an industry we must brace for what is to come - lag times of around 12 months mean the worst is to come. However, Mr Carmody believes the time is right to maintain, upgrade and refresh tourism product in preparation for the inevitable economic upswing. Mr Carmody heavily criticised the proposal for the Passenger Movement Charge to be increased to cover additional costs associated with biosecurity at airports. The next sessions were dedicated to driving demand through aviation policy, business events and destination development. Click here to view Peter Harbison's Presentation on Aviation's fight for survival. The entertainment and education sectors emerged as real and under-capitalised opportunities. A thought-provoking address by Rose Herceg from strategic marketing group STW urged industry to fight the recession through 'gutsy' tactical campaigns and to approach the year with cautious optimism. Undoubtedly the highlight of the Summit was the tourism oration from former Victorian Premier Hon Jeff Kennett. In a rousing speech, Mr Kennett dismissed the GFC as an excuse for a lazy industry and under-performing governments, demanding a stop to the 'blame-game' and challenging industry to take responsibility for past failures. Mr Kennett's message was to raise the industry’s profile among the general public (voters) to pressure Government to consider tourism as a senior portfolio and a substantial national employer. Also during the lunchtime ajournment, David Gibson, CEO Asia Pacific of Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels, was presented with a TTF Life Membership Award by TTF Chair, the Hon Bruce Baird. The award was in recognition of his career achievement and significant contribution to the promotion of Australian hotel investment, and to the development of the Tourism & Transport Forum. Carnival Australia's Ann Sherry and TTF's Christopher Brown each delivered impassioned speeches calling for courage and determination from industry to rethink the traditional approach, to prioritise destinations and markets, and to reintroduce ourselves to our customers. The closing panel, including SATC’s Andrew McEvoy and Quest’s Paul Constantinou, continued this theme of challenging ourselves to truly reinvigorate the industry, adapting to new technology and marketing strategies. Click here to view a list of attendees at Outlook09. ______________________________________________________________________ TTF would like to thank the event sponsors for making Outlook09 a complimentary event, exclusive
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