THE Australian state of Victoria is aiming to increase its number of Indonesian arrivals by 5.7 per cent annually to reach 70,000 arrivals a year by 2021.
Speaking to TTG Asia e-Daily, Victoria’s minister of tourism and major events, Louise Asher, said: “Tourism is very important for the Victorian economy. It is a A$15.9 billion (US$14.7 billion) industry for us, the second biggest industry after education.”
She said that while Indonesia was still a small source market, arrivals in fiscal year 2012/2013 until March 2013 registered 43,000. However, the state expects arrivals to grow 5.7 per cent annually through to 2021/2022 and Indonesia to become the state’s third fastest-growing market.
“Indonesia is an important and growing source of tourists to Victoria. Melbourne’s strong calendar of events, stylish city experiences and the ease of access to nature-based attractions on the city’s doorstep appeal to the increasingly discerning Indonesian traveller,” she said.
The minister was in Jakarta recently as part of the Victoria government’s Super Trade Mission, having made pit stops in Kuala Lumpur (TTG Asia e-Daily, June 18, 2013) and Singapore as well.
Asher said of the Super Trade Mission: “The tourism sector programme seeks to provide Victorian delegates with the platform to explore new commercial opportunities, gain market insights and meet local travel partners and media.”
