In a daring move that has the potential to reshape Australia’s flagging tourism sector, Tour Guides Australia joins a mounting chorus of voices demanding the Federal Government re-evaluate its stance on increasing flight allocations for Qatar Airways.

Notably, leading industry powerhouses like the Australia Tourism Export Council and the Council of Australian Tour Operators have already supported Thrive 2030. This ambitious blueprint sets out Australia’s vision for a sustainably thriving visitor economy, acknowledging the elephant in the room – the fierce international competition, especially in the airspace.

In an encouraging move for the beleaguered tourism sector, Qatar Airways has expressed readiness to double its flight capacity to Australia. Recognizing the potential seismic shift this could bring, Tour Guides Australia eagerly posits that embracing such an influx would amplify opportunities for professional tour guides to invigorate tourism operators and supercharge the visitor economy.

Leanne Saward, the venerable President of Tour Guides Australia, passionately opined, “With our national pulse currently at a low, amplifying air capacity via renowned airlines can be the adrenaline shot we direly need. The dual benefits? Immediate relief from soaring fares and an economy infused with renewed vigor. What’s more, the existing exchange rates are poised perfectly in favor of international visitors hailing from Australia’s primary international markets. The Federal government’s current trajectory could, unfortunately, dent our coveted international allure.”

The cold, hard facts paint a rather stark picture. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, a 37.3% plummet was recorded in international arrivals from June 2019 to June 2023. Such statistics have made industry stalwarts like Tour Guides Australia quite apprehensive, foreseeing a painfully prolonged recovery unless the Federal Government heeds the call to usher in airlines like Qatar Airways, poised and ready to service Australia.

Written by: Christine Nguyen

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