Govt boost for EMDG will help smaller tourism firms
Almasalla Arab Travel Portal News – Australian Government moves to boost the Export Market Development Grants (EMDG) scheme by AUD 50 million have been greeted warmly by the industry.
Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) managing director Peter Shelley described it as a welcome sign for the tourism industry that would help small to medium sized businesses reach their full export potential.
The announcement by Trade and Investment Minister, Andrew Robb fulfils the Abbott Government’s pre-election pledge to enhance the scheme as an important enabler in promoting Australia’s AUD 29 billion export tourism market. 250×250
“ATEC strongly advocated for a re-focus of the EMDG grants including an increase to the assistance pool which will greatly help operators who are looking to connect directly with trade in our key overseas markets,” Shelley said.
“The change in the eligibility requirements will also help many tourism businesses which – until now – have found it difficult to engage with the program.
“We are pleased to see these pre-election promises now coming to fruition and that the Government has taken time to engage with the industry, understand our needs and is now delivering a policy that reflects what we have asked for.”
Shelley said marketing tourism business in the international market was a complex, uniquely challenging and expensive endeavour. He welcomed the reduction of the eligible expense threshold from AUD 20,000 to AUD 5000 and the increase in the number of grants available to companies from seven to eight.
“The extension of the grant funds will help support investment by tourism businesses to grow new markets and attract more international visitors, which in turn grows the value of tourism exports for Australia.
“Australia’s tourism industry is a positive economic contributor and this announcement will help to build a stronger industry, create more jobs and ensure Australia is a highly sort after destination in the international market.”
Source: Global Travel Media
