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With JobKeeper scheduled to finish at the end of March 2021, Ecotourism Australia highlight they have received no advice as to what the Federal Government’s response will be to their sector.

Ecotourism Australia Chief Executive, Rod Hillman notes “it seems unbelievable that a considered and responsible strategy would not be announced and implemented, the risks are just too great to ‘wait and see’. 

“Some in the industry are doing well but there are many businesses that will be forced to close their doors without ongoing support. This is not a problem of their own making, government decisions (rightly or wrongly) have caused this.

“It is up to the government to provide a targeted and proportional solution so that tourism businesses who need the support can continue. A solution needs to take into account the type of business, not just the location, as tours in particular are suffering everywhere.

“Industry associations and many individual businesses have worked hard to reinforce this message but the government’s response must come soon. We will continue to push the urgency of this and look forward to a quick resolution.

Hillman added “Insurance remains a serious challenge and is another issue requiring urgent resolution. At a time when the industry is trying to get back on its feet, businesses are having to cancel tours and activities as they can’t get Public Liability Insurance. I think adopting a policy similar to New Zealand's is the best way forward.”

Nonetheless, Ecotourism Australia applauds the government on committing to a comprehensive roll out of the COVID-19 vaccine with Hillman stating “it is a huge positive for our industry and goes a long way towards ensuring our borders will reopen – and stay open.”

Image top (illustrative only): Murray River Trails, South Australia – an example of ecotourism experience highlighted in Ecotourism Australia’s September 2020 "State of the Industry Report".

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