2023-11-13 18:00:01
More visibility in international comparison and more efficiency in the organization: these are the cornerstones of the new tourism strategy and the Upper Austrian Tourism Act. The amendment is scheduled to be passed in the state parliament on Thursday. The most important points at a glance:
New structure for the associations: “The merger from the original 104 to 19 tourism associations has significantly increased the effectiveness of the organizations,” says Tourism State Councilor Markus Achleitner. Now the structure is to be further streamlined: “Sometimes there are six associations at a tourism trade fair and they all sell the same product. That needs to change, we need to become more efficient.” The new Tourism Act provides the framework for this: The new structure will be anchored by regulation on January 1, 2025. It is developed by the associations in collaboration with the state tourism association and external experts. What this will look like is unclear. Further mergers are the goal, a number is not mentioned. The signals from the regions are positive. Cooperations with other federal states should continue to be possible and all employees should be retained.
Image: VOLKER WEIHBOLD
The law also makes clarifications regarding the leisure flat rate: a tax obligation only arises if there is actually recreational use. If there is no use or no use at all, for example because the apartment is currently being renovated, no flat rate may be prescribed. If the apartment is in the same town as the main residence, no flat rate may be charged. The basis for the changes are findings of the Constitutional Court.
The reporting system for local taxes and tourism contributions is to be completely digitalized by January 1, 2025: This is also provided for in the law.
The basis of the amendment to the law is the new tourism strategy that the country is adopting: According to Achleitner, Upper Austria should become more visible internationally. In addition to overnight guests, day guests are increasingly being recruited; Upper Austria is to be sold as a year-round destination. The aim is to become “bolder” in the campaigns, says Achleitner.
Author
Elisabeth Prechtl
Economics editor
Elisabeth Prechtl
1699902615
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