Media Release
The Australian tourism sector is one that consistently booms with the GPD from tourism reaching $63 billion the past financial year,[1] with $8 billion of the spend attributed to those living with disability, indicating the sheer demand for accessible tourism.[2]
In fact, approximately nine-million-day trips are taken each year by people living with a disability; accounting for more than one-fifth of all day trips[3], indicating the sheer extent of tourism activities undertaken.
Mark Townend, Chief Executive Officer of Spinal Life Australia, says due to the success of 2023 nominated as Queensland’s Year of Accessible Tourism, it’s time to expand this nationally to ensure the tourism sector is pushed toward inclusivity throughout Australia.
“People living with disabilities love to travel and explore like every Australian does. Tourism and travel businesses are critical parts of the Australian economy and have a key role to play in making Australia more accessible and inclusive, not only for our domestic market, but also for our international visitors.
“Designating 2025 as the National Year of Accessible Tourism would not only showcase Australia’s commitment to inclusivity but also create tangible action and collaboration in this important area, leading to long-term positive change for visitors and residents alike.
“With the Queensland Government extending funding for a further two years as part of the state’s Year of Accessible Tourism in 2023, accessibility wasn’t just embraced, it became a fabric of the tourism sector showing significant economic return and creating an even stronger sense of inclusivity. It’s time to build on this work and expand nationally,” says Mr Townend.
With almost one in five Australians living with disability, almost 20% of the country are at the core of accessible tourism, highlighting the sizeable market segment, and need for further resourcing and funding when it comes to accessible tourism.
It’s important to continue the momentum for positive change in this sector and make tourism accessible for all so international and domestic visitors alike can experience Australia’s extraordinary attractions.
Spinal Life Australia is encouraging Australians to advocate for those living with disability to be able to live to the fullest in all aspects of their life, including travel and tourism.
To find out more about our advocacy services, contact us.
[1] https://www.tra.gov.au/en/economic-analysis/tourism-satellite-accounts/national-tourism-satellite-account#:~:text=GDP%20from%20tourism%20was%20%2463,1.4%25%20in%202020%2D21.
[2] Darcy, S., & Dickson, T. (2009). A Whole-of-Life Approach to Tourism: The Case for Accessible Tourism Experiences. Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Management, 16(1), 32-44.
[3] Pavkovic, I., Lawrie, A., Farrell, G., Huuskes, L., & Ryan, R. (2017). Inclusive Tourism: Economic Opportunities. University of Technology Sydney Institute for Public Policy and Governance, Sydney, NSW.
