The Tourism & Transport Forum Australia (TTF) has welcomed the release of the ACT Budget and the additional investment in destination marketing, events and visitor infrastructure.

“Tourism is a key driver of the ACT economy, and the Barr Government appears to be embracing the concept of diversifying the Territory economy through greater support of tourism and events,” said Margy Osmond, TTF CEO.

“This Budget provides a great platform for the future growth of the industry with an additional $7.3 million over four years for destination marketing. The additional $1.5 million to support demand-driving events will further add to the vibrancy of the nation’s capital.

“An increase in funding for the Territory’s destination marketing and events is music to the ears of the industry, and with the imminent commencement of direct international flights to Canberra, the ACT is on a very strong, competitive visitor economy platform.

“Chief Minister Barr has been a strong advocate for the ACT visitor economy with his personal efforts to secure Singapore Airlines as Canberra’s first international airline and the work to attract more Chinese visitors as part of Australia China Business Week.

“The key for the ACT Government will be to leverage the new international flights opportunity to its full potential, ensuring that it is the first of many new services that will link Canberra to the burgeoning Asia-Pacific and beyond.”

Ms Osmond said the Government’s investment of $70 million in public transport, including establishing a free ‘City Loop’ bus service, funding for additional buses and new services, progressing the introduction of an integrated ticketing system and improving walking and cycling infrastructure would benefit the visitor economy.