The Premier, Lara Giddings, and Minister for Tourism, Scott
Bacon, said today the upcoming State Budget would reaffirm the importance of the
tourism industry to Tasmania's economic future.

Ms Giddings said that the 2012/13 Budget would allocate an
additional $5.2 million toward major events funding, bringing total events
funding over the forward estimates to $18.3
million.

 

"We know that hosting major events in Tasmania provides a huge
boost to the economy and gives Tasmanians the opportunity to experience world
class art, sport and culture without having to leave the island," Ms Giddings
said.

 

"Our additional investment will ensure that we are in strong
position to maintain and enhance the existing events
calendar. 

 

"This includes events like the Women's International tennis,
Targa Tasmania, V8s and Mona Foma all of which put Tasmania on the map and
attract visitors from all over the world.

 

"Visitors to these events inject millions into the local economy
through our hotels, bars, restaurants and
taxis.

 

"I can also confirm the Government's ongoing funding support for
the $25.3 million Three Capes Track and the $19.2 million Tarkine Forest
Drive. Both of these are exciting investments in tourism
infrastructure that will give people even more reason to come to our State and
travel across regional Tasmania," Ms Giddings
said.

 

Mr Bacon said the Government was committed to supporting the
tourism industry through both direct and indirect marketing
opportunities.

 

"Sponsorship of events across sports and the arts help to
promote the State in ways we could never afford. For instance Targa Tasmania and
the Mark Webber Challenge are broadcast internationally capturing the huge
international motorsport market.

 

"Similarly Mona Foma, a not-for-profit festival, is growing its
international reputation attracting talent like Phillip Glass, Balletlab and PJ
Harvey."

 

Mr Bacon said Tiger airlines' recent announcement that it is
recommencing flights into Hobart helps to improve access to the
Island. 

 

"This means we have great attractions and stronger access for
many more people to have the opportunity to come to Tasmania to enjoy them," Mr
Bacon said.

 

"We are continuing to work towards our T21 goals, which include
increasing spending by local, interstate and international visitors to $3.42
billion by 2020.

 

"In today's volatile tourism marketplace, it is even more
important than ever that we work together in tackling these challenges, as we
have done so successfully in the past.

 

"We will continue to work with tourism businesses, events
managers and the wider industry to create new visitor opportunities for the
future."