Despite losing out in the World Cup bid, Australia must continue to pursue large scale, international events to remain competitive with other nations and boost our tourism economy according to industry body, the Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF).

TTF managing director Christopher Brown said while Australia didn’t win this time, it was not for lack of a strong vision or substantial investment in our bid.

“The bid team, led by FFA Chairman Frank Lowy and CEO Ben Buckley, delivered an outstanding campaign to host the Cup, which demonstrated we have what it takes to stage global events,”  Brown said.

“Competition is high, but we have the will and the expertise to host world-class events as we proved by our success in delivering ‘the best Olympic Games ever’ in 2000.”

Brown said there was a strong argument for the federal government to establish a national events organisation, Tourism Events Australia, solely devoted to bidding for, and coordinating international events.

“Major events such as the World Cup are key drivers of international visitors and the creation of new employment opportunities,” he said. “They also work across more than one city/state jurisdiction and require national coordination.

“Tourism Events Australia must run a ‘one-stop-shop for events organisers to access federal agencies such as Immigration, DFAT, Austrade, Defence and Customs.

“We also need a federally-funded National Events Legacy Fund to be used to bolster major events to ensure there is a tourism legacy for many years after the show has left town.

“We need to ensure Australia stays in the game, for the long-term benefit of our economy and our tourism industry.

“It’s a pity FIFA chose another host venue today but no way is it ‘game over’ for Australia. In the meantime, industry will focus on the enormous benefit that Oprah Winfrey will bring.”