Guide to help tourism sector engage locals

A NEW step-by-step community engagement guide has been launched in the hope that it will help Victorian tourism operators better take into account the views of locals as the sector works towards more sustainable practices in the future.

The Visitor Economy Community Engagement Framework has been put together at the same time as Victoria’s tourism sector recorded total tourism expenditure of $39.3 billion for the year ending in March 2024, up 12 per cent from the previous year and a record high.

During the same period, 88.8 million tourists visited Victoria, who spent a total of 143.6 million nights in the state, representing an 18 per cent increase on the year before.

Through the new framework, the government is aiming to support local government and industry in engaging with communities to deliver tourism initiatives, educate people about the value of visitor economies, and boost projects.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos said the initiative will help the industry grow more sustainably.

“Our state’s tourism sector is continuing to (make) important contributions to our local economies and (create) jobs for Victorians,” he said.

“I’m excited to see this framework support Victoria’s tourism operators, so that our tourism offering reflects the insights and character of local communities – ultimately making Victoria a unique and exciting destination for holidaymakers.”

Visit the Tourism Victoria website for more information.