Federal tourism minister to open Australian Cruise Association’s 2024 Conference

ACA CEO Jill Abel said Farrell’s attendance reflects the importance of the cruise sector’s contribution to the Australian visitor economy.

The South Australian Minister for Tourism and Multicultural Affairs, Zoe Bettison, will also attend what will be the third annual conference in Adelaide since the first in Melbourne in 2001.

Working closely with government

‘As we look to the future of the industry, we will continue to work closely with government, as well as other key stakeholders, to ensure we are well positioned for growth,’ Abel said.

As well as individual keynote sessions, there will be several panel discussions, including ‘Policies and Procedures — the Governance of Cruise in Australia.’

Coastal Trading Act

To be chaired by Joel Katz, MD of Cruise Lines International Association Australasia, it will address topics like the Coastal Trading Act exemption, which has been extended only until the end of this year. It exempts eligible international cruise operators from needing a licence to carry cruise passengers to and from Australian ports.

As Katz has pointed out, cruise operations are planned a long time in advance and urgent consultation is needed over amendments to the Act.