Industry reacts to Garden Island move

Peak industry bodies have welcomed the prime minister’s decision to open Garden Island to visiting cruise ships, but have stressed the importance of finding a long-term solution.

The Tourism and Transport Forum called the arrangement a “sensible concession”. Chief executive John Lee said the compromise would hopefully “pave the way for expanded permanent access in the future.

“Giving ad hoc access to Garden Island to just one ship does not address future capacity constraints which will restrict the growth of the industry, and today’s announcement is a step towards resolving that problem,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Accommodation Association of Australia said accommodation businesses would see “significant flow-on benefits” from the increased port access.

Chief executive Richard Munro called it “a sign of support for tourism".

“Every time a large cruise ship visits an Australian port, thousands of passengers spend their money in local businesses,” he said.

“The accommodation industry welcomes the announcement by the Federal Government about access for cruise ships at Garden Island and would be pleased to support a permanent long-term arrangement for this important sector of the Australian tourism industry.”

Lord mayor Clover Moore also urged the government to allow public access to the northern tip of Garden Island, highlighting opportunities for residents, businesses and tourists.