Based on strong member feedback, the Victorian Chamber’s submission highlights how compared to other countries, Australia is emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic in a relatively strong position.

However, this macro-economic recovery masks the pain continuing to be felt in certain parts of the economy. This is especially the case in the tourism and events sector that is still struggling to survive, reopen and recover.

Victoria can no longer take for granted its position as the cultural capital of Australia, and Melbourne as one of the most liveable cities in the world.

The Victorian Chamber has argued that if the government does not provide the strategic support as outlined below, businesses and capabilities in the tourism and events sector will be lost forever and a gaping hole will be left in our economy. 

1. Provide targeted financial support for businesses in the tourism and events industry that have been most greatly impacted. Eligibility should be linked to declines in revenue and should focus on regional events and tourism and those businesses operating in the CBD. Priority should be given to those businesses that use the support for new capital equipment, resilience training or improving their business capability.
2. Introduce a further round of tourism vouchers for all of Victoria should also be provided to further drive short-term demand and revenue growth.
3. Remove density limits for tourism, hospitality and events industry businesses and provide a framework for what would result in limits being reapplied if there was a subsequent COVID-19 outbreak.
4. Tourism and events industry businesses need to be supported in taking an active role in shaping the pathway to recovery.
5. Introduce regulatory reform that makes it as low cost and streamlined as possible for businesses in the tourism and events industry to re-open, recover and grow. This should focus on increased information sharing between regulators, councils and government departments, and the creation of one singular portal for businesses to deal with regulators and regulations.
6. Work in partnership with the tourism and events industries to invest in strategic infrastructure over the next 2 years to address any shortfall in current requirements, while developing a longer-term plan for consistent infrastructure development.
7. Work in partnership with the tourism, events, and hospitality industries to develop a 10-year Visitor Economy strategy, with in-principal agreement on the next 5 years by mid-2022.It should be formative and inclusive with clear milestones and tangible outcomes. It should be reviewed every 18 months.
8. Ensure that there is established and genuine engagement between industries, government, political offices, and industry associations that meet regularly to ensure that the needs for a resilient and contemporary Visitor Economy are front of mind and fit for purpose.

The Parliamentary Inquiry report is due to be released by 30 June 2021 to provide recommendations for State Government support measures that will restore the tourism and events sectors to their critical role in the Victorian economy and restore lost jobs.

If you would like to discuss details of this submission or any other policy and advocacy related issues, please contact us at policy@victorianchamber.com.au.