
Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race
Alastair Bett
Joining an industry body gives you a voice in the decisions that affect your region and your sector. Turning up to conferences and forums, and sharing what you've learned, puts your experience to work for others. Supporting operators who are earlier in their journey helps build the depth of talent and quality across the state. And getting involved in local planning and destination management means the perspective of operators is heard where it counts.
Below you'll find the organisations, events and pathways that can help you get involved. Whether you start with one or all of them, your contribution makes a difference.
Have your say, contribute ideas and help shape the future of tourism in your region by joining your local or regional tourism organisation. Being active in an industry body gives you the opportunity to advocate for your business and the Tasmanian community and to influence decision making at a local level. The way you can participate in tourism representative organisations is different – some have paid membership like TICT and Hospitality Tasmania.
Tourism Industry Council Tasmania (TICT) is the peak body for Tasmania's tourism industry and a not for profit, member based organisation. They delivers industry programs and events to support business development and facilitate the sustainable growth of tourism businesses across the state, including administering the Australian Tourism Industry Council's national Quality Tourism Accreditation program. TICT acts as an industry advocate, providing a unified voice for the tourism industry on issues and needs.
Hospitality Tasmania (HT) is the peak industry body for hotels, accommodation, restaurants, cafes, caterers, community, sporting and RSL clubs in Tasmania and advocates for the hospitality sector, with the aim of ensuring Tasmania has a viable and profitable hospitality industry both now and into the future. It provides a range of services to its membership, with a focus on full industrial relations and advice, in addition to a number of industry development programs designed to build capability across Tasmania's hospitality sector as well as workgin with all levels of government to lead the development of industry relevant policy.
Regional tourism organisations act as a support network for tourism operators and business owners in their region and are the first point of call for issues or queries relating to tourism, and they provide valuable networking opportunities for industry colleagues. These organisations work with local operators in their area to set the strategic direction for tourism in their region, identify priorities, and deliver programs that effectively develop and market the region. A majority of their funding is provided by the Tasmanian Government, through Tourism Tasmania, to deliver these industry support services.

North Esk River, Launceston
Tourism Tasmania & Rob Burnett
Attend and present at events. There are often workshops, forums and industry gatherings to attend. These events are a way to stay up to date with the latest news, gain new insights, and connect with fellow tourism operators and organisations. Learn what's on by subscribing to industry newsletters that share event invitations and updates.
Annual Tasmanian tourism conference. The Tourism Industry Council Tasmania runs an annual events program including an annual conference bringing together tourism operators, state government agencies, local councils and other stakeholders.
Participate in local affairs. Participating in council forums, community planning sessions, or destination management initiatives is a way to influence your region's future. It also enhances your reputation as a committed and informed operator. Make sure you're receiving newsletters from your local council and tourism organisations so you don't miss these opportunities.