The Community Action Party recognises the contribution that a healthy tourism industry can make to the ACT community and economy. The sector will require additional assistance in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Although the ACT is host to numerous world-class tourist attractions, the number of people visiting the ACT is not forecast to increase for the next decade. The Party will work with the community, business, and government and non-government agencies to develop an integrated long-term tourism strategy for the ACT region that is environmentally sensitive, socially sustainable, and economically viable.
Administration
The Party supports a regional approach to tourism and will endeavour to build partnerships with neighbouring councils in NSW and with the Commonwealth Government to promote the region.
The Party recognises that to be successful, tourist facilities in the ACT must attract local residents as well as visitors. The Party supports improved promotion of cultural and sporting events in the ACT to residents and potential visitors.
The Party supports the opening of an easily accessible venue for the ACT Tourist Information Centre in Civic.
Ecotourism
The Party supports a new emphasis on ecotourism in the ACT.
The Party supports the upgrading of visitor facilities and walking and riding trails in the natural areas of the ACT.
The Party supports the opening of a well-appointed short stay park for "Grey Nomads" near Tidbinbilla so that they may take advantage of the area's beautiful natural environment.
The Party supports the inauguration of an 'eco-race' through both Namadgi National Park and Canberra Nature Park.
The Party supports the promotion of Canberra as a gateway to the Australian Alps, including identifying Canberra as the start or finish of the Australian Alps Walking Trail and the Bicentennial Equestrian Trail.
Attractions
The Party will work with business and governments to promote and develop Canberra as a national and international convention centre.
The Party supports the introduction of summer evening fairs in the town centres, with a mixture of entertainment, food, and arts and crafts stalls.
The Party will investigate development of an environmentally sustainable 4WD park to provide a safe and managed environment for responsible off road driving.
Accommodation
The Party believes that while the ACT offers a wealth of high-class hotel options, it requires more good quality low cost accommodation.
The Party believes that the rapid growth in new forms of visitor 'accommodation sharing', including 'Airbnb', requires sensitive regulation.
Transport
The Party supports upgrading of the public transport network to improve access to tourist attractions around the ACT.
The Party supports better pedestrian and cycling infrastructure to improve access between tourist attractions.
The Party believes that the opening of direct flights to Singapore and other regional hubs, offer enhanced opportunities to promote 'Capital Canberra' as an international tourist destination.