Ms ADDISON (Wendouree) (12:46): My question is directed to the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events and is about state government support to encourage tourists to visit and stay in Ballarat. I wish to thank the minister for his support for Ballarat businesses that have had their livelihoods impacted by the COVID pandemic, and the work that has been done to support the Ballarat economy during the COVID pandemic. The minister’s actions are most appreciated.

The Ballarat region is one of Victoria’s premier tourist destinations, with 3.36 million visitors travelling to the city in 2019, injecting $613 million into the local economy. This sector has been hit very hard by the cessation of international travel, the state border closures and the ring of steel.

With lower case numbers allowing us to reopen in a COVID-safe way, now is the time to support and promote Ballarat as a premium tourist destination. I want to see more visitor numbers back and our local economy stronger than ever.

Therefore my question is: what is the latest information on how the Victorian government is supporting Ballarat tourism and encouraging visitors to come to Ballarat?

The Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events has answered this constituency question; take a look at his response.

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