Promoting Lyons to the World

Australian Greens candidate for Lyons Pip Brinklow today pledged to investigate more innovative approaches to marketing Tasmania overseas if elected on 7 September.

“The Greens care for the people who work in tourism and we will ensure a strong, sustainable tourism industry,” Ms Brinklow said

Ms Brinklow, who has lived and worked in Asia, said Tasmania was not reaching its potential as far as visitor numbers were concerned and the current member for Lyons seemed disinterested in the topic.

“The Greens have committed to increase Tourism Australia’s funding by $100 million over the forward estimates to allow an expansion in promotional activities.”

“China is by far our greatest potential market and nowhere near enough is being done to understand and attract visitors from this economic powerhouse,” Ms Brinklow said.

“More than 630,000 Chinese visitors came to Australia in 2012, with only 7600 of these people visiting our island state.

“With its iconic tourism destinations such as Cradle Mountain, the Tasman peninsula and the East Coast, Lyons provides just the sort of holiday experiences foreign visitors are looking for.”

Increased funding for Tourism Australia means they can expand their promotional activities into new and developing markets like China. The Greens have also committed $3 million for a digital tourism experiences program.

“Simple initiatives like smartphone and tablet apps for specific regions would make the Tasmanian experience much more attractive, welcoming and immersing for Chinese visitors.”

Destination accreditation is another untapped resource. Accreditation systems allow businesses and towns that meet certain criteria access to new promotional opportunities and quality assurance labels.

“We know that before a typical Chinese tourist heads off overseas they research their destination thoroughly. Having a familiar and trusted brand associated with our local product would be an invaluable asset.”

“It’s time Lyons had a representative that looks outside the square when it comes to tourism so we can expand upon the excellent product we already have.”

For more information and interviews contact Pip Brinklow on 0408 029 395. See also http://greens.org.au/tourism
Australian Greens candidate for Lyons Pip Brinklow