Roles and Actions of Different Levels of Government in relation to Tourism
The Federal Government
The Australian Government agency-Tourism Australia-is responsible for international and domestic tourism marketing. Tourism Australia's role is to:
The State Government
Each state and territory in Australia has its own government tourism agency that works with the Tourism Australia industry. The role of the State Tourism Organisation (STOs) is to:
The Local Government
The role of the local government as a player in facilitating sustainable tourism generally involves:
For the local government to properly carry out these roles, they need to collaborate with workers from the industry community, visitors and the public sector agencies such as the State Tourism Organisation and the Economic Development Board.
The Australian Government agency-Tourism Australia-is responsible for international and domestic tourism marketing. Tourism Australia's role is to:
- Influence people to travel to and throughout Australia
- Increase the economic benefits to Australia from tourism
- Help foster a sustainable tourism industry in Australia
- Provide infrastructure
- Provide security and a safe environment for tourists
- Providing support to the private sectors (hotels)
- Provide subsidies to assist seasonal tourists
- Encourage appropriate use and appreciation of heritage sites and culture
The State Government
Each state and territory in Australia has its own government tourism agency that works with the Tourism Australia industry. The role of the State Tourism Organisation (STOs) is to:
- Support the development and marketing of sustainable tourism destinations and experiences within their state, to increase awareness and attract visitors.
The Local Government
The role of the local government as a player in facilitating sustainable tourism generally involves:
- Strategic planning
- Marketing and promotion
- Data collection (largely through Visitor Information Centres)
- Sponsorship
- Economic Development
- Visitor services
- Development Control (Zoning through development plan, By-laws)
- Public land management
- Capacity Building for Community
For the local government to properly carry out these roles, they need to collaborate with workers from the industry community, visitors and the public sector agencies such as the State Tourism Organisation and the Economic Development Board.