The Tasmanian Greens believe in environmentally sustainable tourism. We have long recognised the importance of this industry, supporting and applauding its increasing contribution to the Tasmanian economy and regional employment. The Greens’ policy is to ensure long-term sustainability in the industry and appropriate, diverse development with the consensus of local communities.

Tasmania's natural resources, rich history, built heritage, vibrant arts community and stable democracy provide the basis of our tourism industry.  Many of our natural environmental features are unique not only to Australia but to the world.  Visitors are attracted to the State by our varied environment, our wilderness and wildlife, clean air, water and uncontaminated soil, our cultural heritage, close present-day communities and boutique products.

A labour intensive tourism industry creates vast opportunity for small business and local employment. It provides a sustainable alternative to job shedding, resource-extractive industries, and contributes substantially to the ongoing viability of rural and regional communities.   Investment in education and training of our people with the range of skills and knowledge required to supply tourism ventures and associated businesses is essential.

Government funding of infrastructure support is necessary, from the delivery of visitors to the island to essential services, signage, interpretation facilities and many other services on which the private sector relies but cannot fund by itself.

Challenges exist due to changing market trends, conflict with other industries which run counter to the pristine brand marketed to visitors, and the need to ensure an equitable market for tourism operators. Tourism is vulnerable to fluctuations in the national and international economy and to changes in visitor patterns and preferences, requiring responsive and adaptable government policies. 

Government leadership in the development of a medium to long-term tourism strategy is essential to the future of the industry. As tourism expands, we must be sensitive to the effect on Tasmanian communities and their way of life, ensuring that our natural and cultural assets endure and are protected from over-exploitation. 

Measures

Ferries: strongly support two passenger ferries running between Devonport and Melbourne; address the need to be responsive to changed market trends of shorter stays, and other impacts on the ferries’ viability; develop strategies to encourage long-stay visitors during off peak periods

Regional tourism: develop initiatives, in conjunction with operators and local communities, to support sustainable rural and regional tourism

Tourist Railways: support the continued operation and expansion of tourist railways

Signage: extend and improve signage; implement a statewide signage strategy

Visitor Centres: adequately resource the tourist service centres as vital contact points for visitors

Water and Sewerage: ensure clean water and proper sewage treatment for rural and regional centres and attractions

Planning: ensure that tourism operators are not disadvantaged by the planning exemptions granted for forestry and marine farming activities

Indigenous Tourism: support the Tasmanian Aboriginal community in the development of tourism ventures which are respectful of, and educate tourists about, the culture, heritage and history of our indigenous people

Brand and Resource: ensure that the value of the Tasmanian ‘pristine’ brand and natural and cultural heritage resources is vigorously protected

Sustainability: incorporate urgently needed social and environmental strategies to accompany the economic development targets and to ensure true sustainability

Niche Tourism: establish resource marketing programs, tourist infrastructure and relevant training programs for services that target niche socio-cultural markets, including backpackers, farm stay tourists, anglers, and working holiday makers

Training: align vocational and post compulsory education courses with industry needs, including those of eco and adventure tourism; foster courses that recognise and cater to a diverse range of visitors