Tourism chiefs at the Northern Territory want the government to relax strict rules for visitors and residents

Thursday, December 16, 2021

Tourism chiefs at the Northern Territory want the government to relax strict rules for visitors and residents, which they think willdamage the Christmas time for tour operators and others in the industry.

Among other regulations, from December 20, the NT government wants vaccinated people to remain in approved high-vaccination zones for 14 days upon arrival in the Territory.

Tourism Central Australia (TCA) chief executive DanialRochford said that the rules would stop visitors and residents from visiting important tourism destinations over the holiday period, including Uluru, Kings Canyon and the east and west MacDonnell ranges.

To quote Rochford, “I’ve got a lot of very anxious and very concerned tourism operators. We’re back to square one where businesses have really lost a lot of confidence and morale. I’m seeing a lot of mental health challenges.”

Mr.Rochford said that TCA had written to Tourism Minister Natasha Fyles urging for a central Australian tourism bubble.
“We’re hopeful that government will listen to the concerns of the industry,” he said.

Mr.Rochfordopined that many operators are concerned.

“It is the worst Christmas present the government could give us,” he said.

Mr.Rochford is also urging Alice Springs residents to approach the Chief Minister’s office and the Minister for Tourism.
“This is the time for everyone to stand up and share their views and share their concerns.I think if we can collectively voice our views and government will listen,” he added.

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