VTIC welcomed the separate $150 million fund to support development of worker  accommodation in regional Victoria, which has been an enormous hurdle to the recovery of 
the state. Finding and housing an adequate labour force in our regional areas has been a crucial missing link impeding growth potential for the sector.

The $150 million tourism package also announced by Premier Daniel Andrews today is  welcome investment in the industry, however the Victoria Tourism Industry Council 
cautions that the money must be directed to key initiatives that will drive the greatest  return and legacy potential for the industry. 

Referencing the $60 million allocated for tourism infrastructure and $20 million for regional tourism marketing in the package, VTIC CEO Felicia Mariani said these were the two primary 
areas that needed further consideration for a sector so heavily impacted by the loss of this  global event. 

“The state’s visitor economy has been focused on its role in supporting the Games delivery  and the industry was banking on the lasting benefits of visitation, new tourism experiences, 
improved infrastructure, better transport links, and the global exposure the Commonwealth Games presented for our regions,” Ms Mariani said. 

“As we face a future without this potential, VTIC is calling for an investment of $80-$100 million in a major game-changing tourism infrastructure fund and $40-$60 million in a 
regional tourism marketing fund to drive demand in the national and international markets that these Games were promising to deliver.

“What Victoria desperately needs is game-changing infrastructure projects that will move the needle on the success barometer for our sector and leave a lasting legacy in positioning 
Victoria to global consumers who are seeking immersive and memorable experiences on their travel bucket list.

“VTIC looks forward to working closely with the Andrews Government as decisions are made as to how these funds are ultimately allocated to drive the most significant outcomes we 
can from this package.

“There are plenty of opportunities to make a difference in this sector and to plan for how the money will not just be used for one off local events, but will improve our tourism 
attractions and create experiences that drive visitation for decades to come,” Ms Mariani said.