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The intensifying fuel crisis is profoundly affecting regional tourism just as the Easter holidays approach, with numerous establishments observing a significant decline in last-minute reservations.
One holiday park owner in New South Wales has noticed a remarkable change in booking trends this year, as travelers express concerns over potential fuel shortages that might leave them stranded.
Frank, who owns and manages a tourist park in NSW, stated that the spike in fuel prices has “affected us almost immediately,” resulting in a sharp reduction in spontaneous bookings.
“We typically receive a lot of last-minute inquiries, but the fuel situation has completely halted that,” he explained.
As fuel prices surge, Easter travel plans are being re-evaluated, with holiday parks and accommodation providers observing alterations in booking behaviors leading up to the extended weekend.
While some operators remain fully booked, others say uncertainty around travel costs is already affecting demand.
Frank said tourists would typically make their bookings in the week or two leading up to the Easter long weekend, but that pattern had seen a shift this year.
“We have not seen any of that this year.
“It is looking very quiet.”
The holiday park manager added that uncertainty around travel costs was contributing to the hesitation, with some travellers unsure whether they could afford the trip.
“People don’t know if they will be able to make it home.”
However, some parks remain busy, thanks mainly to accommodation being booked well in advance of the war in the Middle East.
One employee from a caravan park in Coffs Harbour told nine.com.au the venue had seen some cancellations in recent weeks, particularly towards the school holiday period, but demand for Easter remained strong.
“We are fully booked for this Easter weekend,” she said, adding that bookings are typically made well in advance, often up to a year ahead.
But a manager from another Coffs Harbour motel confirmed there had been some cancellations.
The mixed responses highlight a shift in travel behaviour as Australians weigh up the cost of road trips during a traditionally busy holiday period, with some destinations holding strong while others face a quieter lead-up to Easter.
Some regional holiday parks and accommodation providers have found it necessary to offer fuel vouchers and adjust their booking systems allowing flexibility in uncertain times.
The Easter period is one of the most important times of year for regional tourism, supporting thousands of jobs across the country.
The Australian Tourism Industry Council says regional tourism generates $15.4 billion in visitor spending and supports more than 53,000 jobs.
In a media release, the council backed measures aimed at easing pressure on travellers, including the temporary cut to fuel excise, and encouraged Australians to continue supporting regional tourism.
“That message is especially important heading into the Easter school holidays.
“Every trip taken – particularly to a regional destination – directly supports local businesses and the people they employ,” said Erin McLeod, CEO of the Australian Tourism Industry Council.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the nation on Wednesday night in a live broadcast.
He sent out a message to Australia that “the economic shocks caused by this war will be with us for months.
“The months ahead may not be easy.
“I want to be up-front about that.”
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