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BSPVES Increase Benefits Tourism
Posted on Tuesday, 29 June 2010 | Permalink
The Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania says the increase in the Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme will benefit tourism and the Tasmanian economy.
TICT Chief Executive Officer Daniel Hanna said today the CPI increase in the BSPVES provided certainty for the industry and ferry users and helped maintain Tasmania’s competitiveness with other Australian destinations for road travelers.
“The Tasmanian tourism industry argued long and hard in 2007 for an increase in the Bass Strait passenger vehicle rebate and for it to be linked to inflation to avoid it falling behind cost increases as it had over the previous decade. It was strongly welcomed by the Tasmanian tourism industry when the Australian Government delivered on their commitment in 2008,” Mr Hanna said.
“The increase in the rebate for motor vehicles from 1 July – the third increase in a row – continues to make ferry transport a viable alternative for many travelers and Tasmania as an attractive option for motor vehicle tourists.
“The BSPVES is vital for the Tasmanian regional economy and it is an example of a highly effective program that achieves real benefits. The Tasmanian tourism industry congratulates the Australian Government for their ongoing commitment to this vital program for Tasmania.
“There is no doubt that Tasmania’s tourism industry benefited enormously from the introduction of the Spirit of Tasmania ferries and continues to do so. The Tasmanian Government investment in the vessels, combined with the rebate provided by the Australian Government, is a great example of a federal-state partnership.
We know that passengers arriving via sea stay in Tasmania longer, spend more when they are here and travel more widely which ensures they benefit the whole economy,” Mr Hanna said.
