10 January 2020 Bushfire information update Tourism Australia acknowledges the tough time many of you are facing at the moment, whether directly or indirectly impacted by this terrible bushfire season, and our thoughts and best wishes are with you. Whilst the emergency response to the bushfires and the safety of communities and visitors in affected areas continues to be the number one priority, we know that the majority of our most popular destinations have not been affected by the fires and they need our support to get people on planes now and booking ahead for next year. Tourism Australia’s priority over the coming weeks is to ensure our vital tourism industry, which benefits so many individuals, communities and businesses right across the country, can continue to thrive. We are working to spread the message that the best way to help Australia’s tourism industry is to still visit, whilst at the same time providing factual information as to where the risk areas are at any given time. This as you know, can change from day to day. Affected communities are already beginning to think about rebuilding and we are so grateful for the overwhelming support that’s pouring in from around the world to help them do so. Tourism Australia is also working with Federal, State and Territory governments to develop and implement a whole of government strategic response to the fires. We will continue to update you and respond to your concerns as quickly as we can. | 