Australia’s Passenger Movement Charge will rise by AUD10 from 01 Jan to AUD80pp—a move that’s being criticised by some in the travel and tourism sector who are already battling rising costs.
The Australian Federal Government says the measure is estimated to increase receipts by AUD755.0 million over the five years on 2025/26.
Tourism and Transport Forum ceo Margy Osmond calls the move ‘an absolute shocker’ for the Aussie tourism industry.
“We’re outraged that the government has decided to make travel even more expensive, when operators are already under enormous pressure from the ongoing fuel crisis and surging operating costs,” she adds.
“The government talks constantly about supporting tourism and growing visitation, yet tonight’s Budget makes Australia more expensive to visit and more expensive for Australians to travel.” For a family of four, that’s AUD320 they’ll have to pay in taxes in their airfare, she adds.
“Given how much uncertainty the industry is already facing, this could really be the straw that breaks the camel’s back.”
. . . CLIA Too
Cruise Lines International Association says the move places another burden on travellers when the tourism community is working hard to overcome challenges. CLIA says Australia already charges travellers some of the highest fees in the world.
“This increase is particularly disappointing at a time when the cruise community has been highlighting Australia’s loss of cruise tourism to other regions, and it is a further blow to the country’s competitiveness.”
. . . From TAANZ
While Australia remains a key destination for Kiwis any increase in taxes and charges adds to the overall cost of travel, says TAANZ ceo Julie White.
“Affordability continues to be an important consideration for consumers, and any increase should be focused on improving the traveller experience rather than simply raising revenue.”
ATIA ceo Dean Long, a little less harsh in his criticism, hopes Australia’s borders will be modernised with the funds. “If that doesn’t happen, ATIA will have to hold the government to a blatant revenue grab.”
