The Minns Labor Government’s advertising budget for Destination NSW has come under scrutiny today, with questions remaining about the NSW Government’s commitment to promoting some of the state’s tourism hotspots.

Under questioning from Nationals MLC Nichole Overall during budget estimates, the NSW Minister for Tourism was unable to answer questions on the advertising budget of Destination NSW, or why a recent social media ad for Lismore included footage of the coast.

Mr Anderson said it was astonishing that the Minister for Tourism was not across one of his department’s key roles in promoting the state’s tourism industry.

“It’s deeply concerning that the New South Wales Tourism Minister seemed completely oblivious to how the agency he leads is promoting NSW,” Mr Anderson added.

“Tourism is critical to our state’s economy, and the only way to bring more visitors to our state is to advertise across Australia and the world.

“Reports of wholesale advertising budget cuts have persisted since Labor came to government, and they must come clean about what they’re doing to bring people to NSW.

“It’s also disappointing that the Minister wasn’t aware that his department recently released a social media advertisement that claimed Lismore had a beach!

“The recent promotion for Lismore included scenic shots of surfers catching waves on an unnamed beach, despite Lismore being a full 40-minute drive from the nearest coastline.

“Lismore is a stunning destination for tourists with incredible natural attractions, vibrant arts and culture, and famous hospitality. The last thing local business owners and residents need is the state’s tourism agency redirecting visitors 40 minutes away to the coast.

“Serious questions remain about what the government is doing to promote NSW, particularly towns and villages across regional NSW where the tourism industry is a cornerstone of local economies. The focus should be on attracting visitors, not cutting the budget.

“Slashing the advertising budget of Destination NSW would be a shocking decision with untold impacts on the viability of tourism-associated businesses across the state. Labor must come clean about what they’re spending to promote the state’s tourism industry.”