Council provides vital support for tourism sector
Published on 20 January 2021
Frankston City has long been a favourite destination for visitors and day trippers, who collectively contribute more than $300 million to the local economy annually.
To ensure the long-term viability of the local tourism sector, Council is developing an extensive tourism support program, consistent with its Visitor Economy Strategy 2019 – 2024.
North-East Ward Cr Suzette Tayler said Council is committed to supporting its local tourism operators, acknowledging that many had been severely impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We realise that local tourism took a major hit in 2020 and we know that many operators are struggling, which is why we have allocated $30,000 of recurrent annual funding in our 2020 – 2021 Budget for an ongoing support program.”
Cr Tayler said insights from a survey conducted in late 2020 are being used to develop the program, which is expected to launch in late February.
Key insights from the survey indicated that:
- 58 per cent of businesses stated that their customers (both residents and visitors) asked for information about what to do or where to find things locally.
- Businesses would most like support in digital marketing and social media training; and
- Businesses were looking for support to identify and initiate cross-promotion and business to business opportunities.
Cr Tayler added: “As the first point of contact, it is important that our local businesses are providing services and experiences which support our visitors and residents to enjoy their time in Frankston City.
“From the service provided before they visit, to the experience they receive while in Frankston City, each step of the customer journey contributes to the overall Frankston City experience.
“We want to support our businesses to provide the best service possible to our visitors and residents at each stage of their time with us,” Cr Tayler said.
Quest Frankston Serviced Apartments General Manager, Nellie Tinga, welcomed both the tourism support program and the benefits it will provide to residents, visitors and local businesses.
“Our front of house staff are often the first point of contact for guests seeking information on all the things they can see and do while in the area. This program will enable us to upskill our staff and ensure we are providing relevant information and quality customer service that meets their needs and interests.
“We see this program providing opportunities for us to work more collaboratively across industry, cross promote the experiences, generate new business and contribute to positive visitor experiences that will keep them coming back for more,” Ms Tinga said.