Australia is losing out when it comes to cruise and the benefits it could bring to the country, as fewer ships visit the destination due to regulatory uncertainties and rising costs.
Speaking at the Australian Cruise Association annual conference in Brisbane last week , Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) global president and ceo Bud Darr warned that while the rest of the world was enjoying strong economic growth from cruise tourism, Australia was losing out, despite strong cruise demand in the local market.
. . . Billion Dollar Loss
“We shed AUD1.1 billion year-on-year in terms of cruising’s economic contribution in Australia last financial year, against a total economic output of USD 7.3 billion,” Darr told those at the conference.
“That means Australia is missing out on economic opportunities, and that impacts communities and people throughout the country.”
The CLIA boss also cited travel agents as among those who feel the impact of this, alongside farmers, food producers, transport companies, hotels, tourism operators and regional communities.
Darr (pictured), attributed the drop in cruise ships operating in the region to rising costs, complex processes, uncertain requirements and a difficult regulatory environment all of which he says have reduced Australia’s competitiveness as a destination.
. . . Call For Action
His comments come as CLIA in Australasia and cruise lines continue to call for a national Australian approach to fostering cruise tourism in communities around the country. See more details on that HERE.
