ATEC Launches New Export Tourism Program

Stephanie and Denis

As part of its focus on delivering practical value to its members and the tourism industry, ATEC has  launched the new Tourism Export 'Know-How' training and mentoring program, the first stage of which will roll out in Western Australia.

“We are pleased to be launching this new program in partnership with Tourism WA and with the support of Tourism Australia as a practical, supported introduction to the export tourism market,” ATEC Chairman, Denis Pierce said.

“This is a very tangible example of how ATEC is fulfilling its commitment to increasing the
skills, market range and sale of tourism export products by Australian tourism businesses.

“In building the program, ATEC has conducted extensive consultation in order to identify the true needs of the industry, developing a 'Readiness Framework' which has helped to build our three stage training module.”

Tourism WA is the first State Tourism Organisation (STO) to sign the partnership agreement with which will see ATEC deliver face-to-face programs throughout the state in conjunction with Regional Tourism Organisations (RTO)

“We are delighted to be the first STO to partner with ATEC on this program that will deliver a training program that has been built delivering collaboratively with industry and the local ATEC branch and we are confident this will be a valuable tool for WA tourism businesses,” Tourism WA CEO, Stephanie Buckland said.

“Western Australia enjoys a solid reputation in the international marketplace, attracting 12.9% of overall international visitors to Australia and more than 12% of international spend and there is further room for growth.”

Mr Pierce said the program was developed with a view to extending the program beyond WA and will provide a well defined, organised syllabus with nationally aligned and locally relevant content. The program will offer entry level Business Ready training, followed by Market Ready and Export Ready modules which will work to build business capacity.

“In developing this program, we are working from our strengths and tapping into ATEC's marketing expertise and knowledge and that of our partner STOs,” Mr Pierce said.

“The program will ensure new and established products are sustainable and we will work with STOs and RTOs to identify new market entrants and help them to ensure their marketing dollar and business plans are focused on success.

Future plans include extend specific programs in to Indigenous tourism businesses through WAITOC to ensure Export-Ready consistency is achieved across the state including regional areas and indigenous tourism operators.