The cruise industry is warning that Australia is in danger of missing the boat as a record number of travellers choose to holiday at sea. Operators say soaring port fees and red tape are driving ships away and risking thousands of jobs on land and at sea.
Economic impact of the cruise industry
Cruising contributes up to $7 billion to Australia's economy, supporting around 22,000 jobs. The industry extends far beyond the ports, with a supply chain stretching from paddocks to ports.
In Melbourne's west, third-generation farmer Paul Temuskos relies on the cruise industry for 40 per cent of his family business. “Every year we grow around 800,000 heads of cauliflowers and the cruise ships take around half of that,” Temuskos said.
Supply chain and local businesses
The produce is just one part of a network that supports local farmers and suppliers across the country. Jeremy Goodman, Regional Director Supply Chain at Carnival Corporation, said the network extends across the country. “Farmers who we support all across the country that are providing us with everything you could imagine that goes into the 20,000 meals a day that each ship produces,” Goodman said.
Competitive edge at risk
Industry leaders say Australia is losing its competitive edge. Cruise Lines International Association Joel Katz said, “We need the state and federal governments to work together to create an environment that’s welcoming to cruise and ensures Australia can remain competitive in that global arena.”
Strong demand but uncertain future
Demand remains strong with Australians cruising in record numbers. Last year more than 1.4 million Australians took a cruise, showing the appetite Australians have for cruising. But operators warn if more ships are deployed overseas, it won’t just be ports that feel the impact.
