The Victoria Tourism Industry Council welcomes the announcement from the Victorian State Coalition that if elected to Government in the November 2018 Election, they will commit $2 million towards the development of a LGBTI tourism strategy.
The annual value of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex travel sector is estimated to exceed $211 billion worldwide. Victoria already has a strong reputation as a travel destination of choice for the LGBTI community and the fulfilment of this strategy will only further strengthen our position.
This funding announcement includes a dedicated LGBTI marketing campaign targeting national and international visitors, an additional $20,000 per year for the Victorian Tourism Awards and $250,000 to commission a documentary on the Midsumma Festival to celebrate this globally significant event.
Victoria Tourism Industry Council Chief Executive Felicia Mariani said, "Victoria is well regarded as a destination that celebrates diversity and promotes inclusiveness. This announcement by the Opposition towards a dedicated LGBTI tourism strategy is important in that it so perfectly complements what Victoria has to offer".
With a vibrant music scene, world-renowned arts and culture in Melbourne, and a growing portfolio of regional festivals and events in regional Victoria, there is a unique opportunity for our State to become the LGBTI tourism capital of Australia.
If the Opposition is elected, VTIC would welcome the opportunity to work with Visit Victoria in developing this important strategy, as well as participating in the Roundtable to ensure that the state's tourism industry works with all stakeholders to achieve strong outcomes for both the sector and the LGBTI community.
