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The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has today welcomed the Federal Government’s stimulus package of funding to address the impacts of the coronavirus on the Australian economy.“ATEC is pleased the Government is making a solid commitment to sustaining the tourism industry in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak,” ATEC Managing Director Peter Shelley said of today’s announcement.

“We have been greatly concerned by the impact the contraction in international travel will have on tourism’s future – we just can’t afford to lose the important distribution channels currently in place.  We are particularly happy with the commitment to support businesses where there has been a supply-chain breakdown as a result of the virus outbreak.

“Despite the bushfires and subsequent COVID-19 crisis, the industry has been doing what it can to keep the doors open – this is a dire time and the industry needs every bit of support it can get.

Mr Shelley said money for Austrade to explore alternative export markets aligns with ATEC’s focus on training and development and small business grants along with wage subsidies and BAS deferral will help to keep the wheels turning and maintain positive trade relationships. Business grants similar to EMDG would go a long way to encouraging capable tourism exporters to invest in new markets.

ATEC stands poised to ramp up support programs for the industry, using its already successful learning and development platform to deliver meaningful benefits for export tourism businesses across the country.  Many of ATECs programs are available via an online learning platform and can reach regional businesses. Training programs available for immediate action include:

  • Industry training programs designed to arm businesses with an understanding of the China, Japan and India markets with a focus on distribution, experience and product development
  • Virtual Trade Shows to allow businesses to continue building relationships in order to re engage trade quickly post COVID-19
  • International Ready training to move domestic tourism product towards export which can be driven throughout the tourism regions.

“Now is the time for action and ATEC looks forward to working with the Government in quickly delivering programs to Australia’s tourism industry which can help to put it back on its feet.”