The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) Managing Director, Brett Jardine, recently met with Shadow Minister for Tourism, Kevin Hogan MP.
The meeting provided an opportunity for Mr Hogan to seek CATO’s perspective on a new initiative emerging on the national agenda, aimed specifically at supporting Australian-based tour operators and wholesalers. While details of the initiative are yet to be formally announced, CATO welcomed the chance to contribute early insights on behalf of the sector.
“Tourism is traditionally a bipartisan portfolio, with both sides of politics recognising the critical role the industry plays in the Australian economy. While policy approaches may differ, the commitment to a strong and sustainable tourism sector remains consistent across the political spectrum,” said Jardine.
“This engagement reflects CATO’s targeted and authoritative advocacy on behalf of outbound tour operators and wholesalers. As the only organisation dedicated exclusively to this part of the industry, CATO is uniquely positioned to articulate the sector’s value with its deep product development expertise, its investment in outbound leisure travel, its strong partnerships with retail agents, and the more than $12 billion it contributes to the Australian economy each year, added Jardine
Through their specialist focus and proven credibility, CATO is increasingly being sought out by policymakers for informed guidance on issues that directly affect our members. This emerging initiative is no exception, and CATO’s input will help ensure that the unique needs and contributions of tour operators and wholesalers are properly recognised in the national conversation.
CATO will be providing a formal contribution to this important project and will continue to engage closely as it develops.
