Tourism and transport among the big winners in Victorian Budget cash splash

The Victorian Government’s increased investment in the tourism and transport sectors in its 2018-19 Budget will bolster the State’s visitor economy and enhance its reputation as one of the world’s best places to live and visit, the Tourism and Transport Forum Australia (TTF) said today.

TTF Chief Executive, Margy Osmond, congratulated the Victorian Government for its recognition of the economic value of investing in the visitor economy and in big ticket transport infrastructure projects.

“Prior to the Victorian Budget, TTF called on the Government to grow the State’s visitor economy by investing in areas such as cultural tourism opportunities and securing more business and major events,” Ms Osmond said.

“It is pleasing the Government has heeded this call with solid funding across these areas, including investing an additional $51 million for tourism marketing, attracting business events and expanding the Major Events Fund.

“Victoria has in recent times been the standout success story of Australian tourism. To keep this terrific momentum going there needs to be a long-term and predictable funding commitment to retain its competitive edge with other Australian States when it comes to destination marketing.”

Ms Osmond said the Budget also delivered badly needed investment in critical congestion-busting infrastructure.

“Overcoming the problems caused by growth and congestion requires transformative infrastructure investment, and the Victorian Government has really delivered in what can certainly be described as an infrastructure budget,” Ms Osmond said.

“The $2.2 billion to upgrade and widen some of Victoria’s most congested suburban roads and $1.9 billion investment to keep rebuilding the State’s public transport network will go a long way towards delivering the services and infrastructure Victoria needs to retain its mantle as the world’s most liveable city.

“Regional Victoria is also a big winner with $704 million for more efficient and reliable public transport to give Victorians in regional areas more efficient and reliable public transport and grow regional Victoria as a domestic and international tourist destination.”