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The latest International and National Visitor Survey results for the year ending September 2018 show that South Australia recorded strong levels of expenditure growth.

South Australian Tourism Industry Council (SATIC) Chief Executive Officer, Shaun de Bruyn said the economic value of tourism is at a record high.

“Tourism in South Australia is now worth $6.9 billion and directly employs over 36,000 South Australians. This means that both local and international visitors have spent $6.9 billion across the State over the last 12 months,” said Mr de Bruyn.

“The tourism industry is investing as never before, and we are seeing all manner of growth, from small business start-ups, investment in building more sustainable SME’s, as well as new infrastructure such as hotels.

“That said, tourism is a highly competitive industry and we must work collaboratively with our State Government and continuously invest if we are to remain relevant.”

Recently other State and Territory Governments have significantly increased their tourism investment, including $290 million from the NSW Government to enhance their already booming visitor economy.

SATIC on behalf of industry is thereby calling on the State Government to increase its level of investment at a time when all other State and Territory Governments are digging into their pockets and lifting their investment.

“Specifically speaking, industry is reinforcing the need for the government to increase the South Australian Tourism Commission’s (SATC) budget to $100 million per year over the forward estimates, as well as funding to support their global marketing initiatives that drive tourism to our State.”

“The State Tourism Plan 2020 stretch targets of $8 billion and 41,000 jobs are well within reach, however, it will only be achieved with solid support from all stakeholders.”

“Likewise, SATIC will continue to advocate to work in partnership with the State Government to strengthen the capabilities of our tourism operators and their staff, ensuring they have the skills to deliver the best experiences possible,” said Mr de Bruyn.