Will Hodgman: Putting Tasmania on the tourism menu

The Liberal Government’s number one priority is jobs which is why I’m encouraging Tasmanian providers of food, wine and beverages to sign up for Tourism Australia’s new international Restaurant Australia campaign.

Our island state is blessed with an abundance of top quality food, wine and beverage experiences so this is an opportunity to put Tasmania at the top of the tourism menu.

Importantly, more tourists equates to more jobs. The tourism industry has estimated our very achievable target of 1.5 million visitors to Tasmania pa by 2020 represents an extra 8000 local jobs.

Tourism Australia is specifically looking for businesses to share the stories behind their food, wine and beverage experiences.

We know food and beverage experiences are an important factor in people’s holiday decision making so this campaign is a great opportunity for Tasmania to showcase what we have to offer.

It’s also about featuring our farmers markets; food and beverage festivals, events, trails, tours and experiences; producers; restaurateurs; cooking schools; unique dining experiences as part of other tours or activities, and distilleries, cideries, vineyards, breweries, non-alcoholic and special beverages.

The early signs are that Tasmanian businesses are well-represented, with around 14 per cent of all business listings received from around the nation, currently coming from this state.

It’s a positive start, but it would be great to see even more local food and beverage experiences join this list by 7 May, when the Restaurant Australia campaign is launched nationally.

To find out about more the Restaurant Australia campaign and how to become involved, visit http://restaurant.australia.com/
Will Hodgman, Premier Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events