The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) welcome the Morrison Government's announcement of funding for the Geelong City Deal, including upgrades to the Shipwreck Coast and the Geelong Convention Centre.
Victorian Chamber Chief Executive Mark Stone AM said the Greater Geelong and Shipwreck Coast regions – already major employment and tourism hubs – have enormous potential with investment from all levels of government.
"The commitment of the Morrison Government, along with previous commitments by the Andrews Government, to Geelong and the Shipwreck Coast will boost business, tourism and jobs," Mr Stone said.
VTIC Chief Executive Felicia Mariani said the Great Ocean Road region is one of Australia's most iconic natural attractions visited by millions of people each year.
"High-quality and reliable tourism transport solutions has been a key pillar of VTIC's policy platform and we are thrilled that the Morrison Government has also announced funding towards the Queenscliff-Sorrento Ferry terminals.
"Visitors from all around the world expect to be able to seamlessly connect throughout Victoria, and the Queenscliff to Sorrento ferry is an important link in creating a multi-night itinerary around our state," Ms Mariani said.
A high-quality arrival and departure experience will meet visitors' expectations, encourage more visitors to use this service and help reduce road congestion in the local area.
The Victorian Chamber and VTIC have advocated for State and Federal Government commitments to the Geelong City Deal and for infrastructure upgrades. It's pleasing to see this come to fruition.
Works to be undertaken include:
- building the Geelong Convention Centre
- upgrades for viewing infrastructure, refurbishment of the existing visitor centre and an interim car park at the Twelve Apostles
- upgrades to the Queenscliff Ferry Terminal, which will support the Queenscliff-Sorrento ferry, Australia's busiest passenger and car ferry service transporting more than 900,000 people and 200,000 cars across the bay.
In the lead up to the State Election, the Victorian Chamber and VTIC will continue to advocate on behalf of members and Victorian businesses to ensure Victoria can untap its full potential as a world class tourism destination and great place to do business.
