Local tourism operators have begun discussing their long-term vision for Blue Mountains tourism at a meeting with Shadow Minister Anthony Albanese and Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman.
The tourism industry representatives, which included Scenic World, hotel operators and Blue Mountains Economic Enterprise, discussed the need for a refreshed strategy for tourism across the entire Blue Mountains, significant public infrastructure upgrades and environmentally sustainable tourist projects.
“Tourism is an absolutely essential industry in the Blue Mountains,” Ms Templeman said.
“The figures show us that more than four million tourists visit the Blue Mountains each year, spending an estimated $666 million. Tourism is the second largest employer here, with approximately 12.9% of local jobs attributable to the tourism sector, generating $105 million in wages and salaries,
“So the long-term health of the tourism industry has flow on effects on the rest of our local economy,” she said.
Shadow Minister for Tourism and Infrastructure, the Honourable Anthony Albanese MP, said that “tourism is a super growth and sustainable industry and I am working with the sector to maximise economic and employment opportunities.”
Scenic World is the most visited privately-operated tourist attraction in Australia. “Having sustainable infrastructure in place is vital for the industry to reach its full potential whilst caring for the World Heritage area that makes us unique, and we’re proud to work alongside our industry colleagues and have the support of Federal Members to help shape our region’s future,” said Scenic World CEO Anthea Hammon.
“I will continue to engage with the local tourism industry to ensure that it has the necessary support to continue to thrive in the Blue Mountains,” Ms Templeman concluded.