Several new ecotourism products featured in the NSW Government State Budget will help the NSW visitor economy continue to recover from the impacts of the pandemic and create new and different experiences, according to the state’s peak tourism organisation, the NSW Tourism Industry Council.
“The NSW Budget has allocated funds to invest in new and existing iconic walks and tourism products which will encourage regional visitor dispersal and help to grow jobs across the state,” said NSW Tourism Industry Council Executive Manager Greg Binskin.
“The Commission has taken into account the pressure on some sectors, with the rise to commence in the Tourism, Hospitality and Aviation sectors from 1 October, rather than 1 July for other Awards.
Navigating the skills and staff shortages still remains the greatest challenge for businesses in the visitor economy.
“Consumers are currently seeking out experiences in open spaces and natural eco-friendly environments and the investment in product development linked to consumer demands such as iconic walks, Aboriginal experiences and accommodation in national parks will boost visitation to places often overlooked,” Mr Binskin said.
“With international visitors, working holiday makers and students expected to continue to return to Australia as air capacity and travel restrictions are lifted, NSW is in a great position to offer sustainable experiences with a difference.
“Navigating the skills and staff shortages still remains the greatest challenge for businesses in the visitor economy, but ecotourism opens up a new supply chain of goods and services.
“It is encouraging to see NSW work towards the goal of becoming the premier visitor economy of the Asia Pacific by 2030,” Mr Binskin said.