Government called on to support event-related tourism

Stephen Ferguson, AHA National CEO, said today, “With State elections in both Queensland and NSW taking place in the next three months, the value of event-related tourism should become mainstream issues.

Both States have seen downturns in mining and other industries; whereas events and tourism have continued to surge.

It is impressive that the NSW Government has shown its support of the sector with the re-development of Sydney’s convention and exhibition centre.

Queensland has also been active in the domestic and international tourism sector.

But what is needed now is more flexible working conditions to boost productivity, a strong international business events marketing programme to make the most of the falling Australia dollar.

This requires an absolute commitment by Government at all levels to boost infrastructure, cut red-tape and recognise the employment and revenue generating value of the business events sector.”