Released 25/07/2017
Joint Media Release - Andrew Barr and Chris Bourke
The ACT Government will commit $8.8 million to growing Canberra’s tourism sector, with more funding for major events and more promotion of our city in key domestic and international markets.
The 2016/17 ACT Budget will be a job creating budget – supporting the continued diversification of our economy by assisting the creation of jobs outside of the Australia public service.
We have an opportunity with the start of direct international flights to significantly grow our tourism sector. Ensuring our city reaps the full benefits of international flights is a great way to create more jobs right across the capital.
The 2016/17 Budget will commit $7.3 million to promote Canberra as a key business and leisure tourism destination in key domestic (Sydney and regional NSW) and priority international markets (Singapore, New Zealand, Malaysia).
The Government will also support the growth of significant community events such as the Enlighten and Canberra Day celebrations through $1.5 million in funding. These events play an important role in enhancing Canberra’s reputation as an events destination.
The Government has made previous funding commitments to attract world-class sporting events to Canberra as a way of boosting visitation and exposure in new markets. These include the A-League clash between Wellington Phoenix and the Central Coast Mariners and our partnership agreement with Cricket Australia to bring both one-day and test match cricket to Canberra.
The 2016/17 ACT Budget will also support the growth of our cultural scene, with $460,000 for the Canberra Theatre Centre. The Budget includes $410,000 to upgrade security and safety at the Theatre Centre, which will ensure the region’s main performing arts centre is capable of hosting bigger and better shows.
The Government will also commit $50,000 to promote the staging of a major show in Canberra, which will be announced shortly.
The Minister for Arts Dr Chris Bourke said that this new funding commitment will take the Government’s investment into the Canberra Theatre Centre to a total of $9.5 million.
“The ACT Government has a proud history of supporting our arts and cultural sector, and I’m glad this Budget continues this legacy”, said Dr Bourke. “The theatre is a wonderful part of the Canberra community, and it’s now helping to drive visitors to Canberra by hosting world class performances.”
- Statement ends -
Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases