Easy visa key to reshaping Aussie tourism

Tourism itself generates more than 105 billion Australian dollars every year for the economy annually.

In the past 10 years, tourists arriving from Asia have tripled.

The TTF is also lobbying Australian MPs for more government funding for Tourism Australia to attract more international visitors here, a freeze and review of the passenger movement charge, which it claims is the highest in the developed world, and a reform of the tax regime to encourage private sector investment in visitor accommodation. The reforms would include accelerated depreciation for capital works.

Among the items on a long wish-list, the TTF is lobbying for 10 million Australian dollars a year in government support to help secure more international business events here and a further 5 million Australian dollars to attract international sporting events.

Booming tourism from Asia represents the biggest opportunity for Australian operators and businesses.

"We are also strongly in favor of providing a premium visa processing option for people who wish to have their application expedited, "TTF CEO Morrison said.

According to the influential lobby group there is no longer any 'practical reason' for Australia to maintain a "one size fits all" approach to visa processing.

They are also calling for other incentive measures, which include slashing taxes, increased support for Tourism Australia, an extension/expansion of the working holiday scheme and a dedication of support focus on what are being described here as " Asian Century" opportunities.