Typically, the arrival of spring brings a sense of anticipation and energy as we look ahead to the October holidays and the busy summer period for many tourism businesses. This year, however, it’s hard to ignore the uncertainty and challenges facing our coastal regions particularly with so many unknowns surrounding the harmful algal bloom, as well as declining visitor spend in domestic markets, as highlighted in our latest Tourism Barometer.
TiCSA is here to support you through this period. We’re continuing to work closely with all levels of government to ensure tourism businesses, beach destinations and coastal communities receive the support they need.
Last week, I was pleased to attend the media announcement for the travel vouchers and to co-host a webinar with the SATC providing details on the program and broader updates on the algal bloom response. Initiatives like this voucher program, combined with SATC’s ongoing marketing efforts, are crucial to encouraging bookings and keeping visitors coming to our coast.
Also last week, I joined a delegation of coastal council mayors and stakeholder representatives in Canberra. We met with the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, federal ministers, senators from across the political spectrum, and senior departmental officials to raise awareness of the bloom’s devastation and advocate for key priorities. These included:
The development of a National Legislative and Policy Framework to address mass marine mortality events.
Investment in social and mental health support programs for affected coastal communities and industries.
The establishment of long-term ecological and biological monitoring, including baseline data collection for the Great Southern Reef.
In addition to our advocacy, next week we’re hosting a free online workshop: Operating in Uncertainty: A Survival Guide, offering practical advice to help businesses navigate challenging conditions. The session will also highlight our Business Continuity tool, a valuable Quality Tourism Framework resource that supports crisis management and response planning. Register here.
Also last week, in partnership with RAA, we held the first of our Tourism Voice listening and advocacy events. We were joined in Victor Harbor by David Basham MP and operators from across the Finniss electorate for an engaging discussion that will help shape our policy priorities for the 2026 state election and beyond. We’re aiming to visit all regional electorates over coming months, giving you the chance to hear from and engage directly with your local political leaders and candidates. Our next event will be held in Port Pirie for the electorate of Stuart on Tuesday 23 September, register to attend here.
Finally, we’re looking forward to announcing the finalists for the 2025 South Australian Tourism Awards later this month. The Gala Dinner will be held on Friday 7 November, and we congratulate all entrants on their completed submission. Your efforts are a significant and rewarding investment in business excellence. As part of the awards we enjoy recognising those that have gone above and beyond for tourism over the life of their career and those that are making big waves early on. Nominations remain open for both the Outstanding Contribution and Young Achiever awards, with submissions due by 22 September. Read on below for more information about how to nominate someone who is making an impact.
Warm regards
Shaun de Bruyn
CEO, Tourism Industry Council SA
