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"No sympathy": 26-year-old roasted over massive tax bill complaint

It’s a classic tale of riches to tax brackets – OnlyFans creator Talia Batiste, 26, has found herself in the fiery depths of an Australian Tax Office reckoning, and the internet has wasted no time serving up a heaping plate of zero sympathy. Batiste, who revealed that she’s been hit with a tax bill totalling $71,008.45 (yes, she included the cents for maximum devastation), took to social media to lament her financial woes. “For everyone that likes to make sure I’m paying my tax. I’m going to go and cry myself to sleep now,” she wrote, presumably while clutching her silk pillow stuffed with $100 bills. The internet’s reaction? Less “thoughts and prayers”, more “play stupid games, win inevitable government-mandated financial responsibilities”. “Absolutely robbery,” one concerned citizen commented, clearly distressed by the idea of anyone having to contribute to society. “To pay that much tax, you earn a sh**load. No sympathy,” another user shot back, presumably while furiously entering their own lacklustre income into a tax return calculator. Some were more pragmatic, offering sage financial wisdom. “I hope you have a good accountant to get you those tax deductions,” someone advised, the unspoken message being: “There’s still hope, young one.” While many scoffed at the idea of crying over a salary that most people only see on TV shows where billionaires buy entire islands for sport, Batiste remained defiant. <a href="https://www.news.com.au/finance/economy/cry-myself-to-sleep-26yearold-in-tears-over-giant-tax-bill/news-story/7adfcb10f0ea62a1749f4dc6c1b65934" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Speaking to news.com.au</a>, she admitted that the bill “wasn’t too bad” compared to the tax nightmares of yesteryear. (Yes, it turns out paying taxes gets easier when you know they’re coming. Who knew?) Batiste revealed that an early accounting blunder had initially classified her as a sole trader rather than a business, making her tax situation about as pleasant as a surprise phone call from the ATO. “So when I make $400,000+ a year, it looks like that is my personal income rather than money going back into a business,” she explained, finally unlocking the ancient wisdom of self-employment taxation. Now, with proper financial advice in place, she says she takes a modest salary while the rest of her earnings go into business expenses – like, presumably, funding the tissue budget for her post-tax breakdowns. Despite her newfound tax strategy, Batiste insists that the process “never gets easier”. (Except for last year, when she owed a whopping $136k, making this year’s bill look like pocket change by comparison.) She also had some words about Australia’s taxation system: “Everybody pays too much tax.” Yes, much like death and bad reality TV spin-offs, taxation is inevitable. But Batiste isn’t letting it get her down – at least, not too much. Even though she says she’s “prepared” for these bills now, that doesn’t mean she enjoys sending her hard-earned money into the great abyss of government spending. “Hitting send on that ATO payment hurts every time,” she said. Meanwhile, taxpayers earning a fraction of her income simply sighed, checked their bank balances, and went back to their regularly scheduled programming: budgeting how to afford avocados and rent in the same month. Images: TikTok

Money & Banking

Replacing stamp duty with a land tax could save home buyers big money. Here’s how

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> Infrastructure Victoria has released a <a href="https://assets.infrastructurevictoria.com.au/assets/Victorias-draft-30-year-infrastructure-strategy.pdf">draft 30-year plan </a> outlining how the state can grow sustainably. It focuses on key areas like transport, housing, energy, and public services to support a growing population and improve liveability. The plan also suggests ways to make the state’s infrastructure and tax system fairer, more efficient and more sustainable. The plan’s recommendations are expected to cost between A$60 billion and $75 billion, mostly spent before 2035. This is around 10% of <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/economy/national-accounts/australian-national-accounts-state-accounts/2023-24-financial-year#data-downloads">Victoria’s yearly economic output</a> in 2023-24, spread over the next decade. With Victoria already spending record amounts on infrastructure, and <a href="https://pbo.vic.gov.au/document/BudgetUpdateSnapshot2024-25">budget deficits forecast</a> until 2025-26, finding the money to fund social housing, transport and other projects is a key challenge. We estimate the Infrastructure Victoria proposals would add between $4 billion and $5 billion to Victorian government expenditure each year. Yet one of its proposals — replacing stamp duty with an annual land tax — would only cost between $1 million and $5 million to implement, but generate substantial gains for Victorian households. <h2>Why replace stamp duty with land tax?</h2> Stamp duty is one of the biggest barriers to moving house in Victoria and other Australian states. This tax, which people pay when they buy property, adds thousands of dollars to the cost of moving. In 2022-23, Victorians paid about <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/economy/national-accounts/australian-national-accounts-state-accounts/2023-24-financial-year#data-downloads">$12 billion</a> to move house. Of this, $3 billion went to actual moving costs (like real estate services, and removalists) and $9 billion was <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/economy/government/taxation-revenue-australia/latest-release#data-downloads">stamp duty</a>. That’s an effective tax rate of 300% on the true cost of moving, and in 2023 <a href="https://www.e-business.sro.vic.gov.au/calculators/land-transfer-duty">added about</a> $40,000, or 5.3%, to the cost of purchasing the average Victorian home. High stamp duty discourages people from relocating, even when their needs change — whether that’s moving for a new job, finding a bigger home for a growing family or downsizing after retirement. This leads to longer commutes, traffic congestion and a less efficient housing market. Switching from stamp duty to an annual land tax would make moving easier and spread the tax burden more fairly. Instead of a large, one-time tax when buying a home, all landowners would pay a smaller tax each year. This would help fund schools, hospitals, and other infrastructure more sustainably. <h2>What can we learn from Canberra?</h2> Victoria University’s Centre of Policy Studies <a href="https://www.treasury.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/1618407/cops-final-report.pdf">studied a similar reform</a> in the Australian Capital Territory, where stamp duty has been gradually phased out since 2012 and replaced with higher general rates (a type of land tax). Each year, the ACT government sets a target for how much money it needs to raise. Landowners then pay a share of that total, based on the value of their land. One of the biggest benefits of this approach is that it raises money more efficiently. Unlike other taxes, land taxes don’t discourage investment or economic activity. The study found removing stamp duty had a big positive impact on the ACT’s economy. Around 80% of the economic boost came from removing stamp duty, while introducing land tax also had benefits. By studying transaction data from the ACT, we showed each 10% reduction stamp duty rates drove a 6% rise in property transactions. <h2>Would it help housing affordability?</h2> One of the main arguments for replacing stamp duty with land tax is its effect on housing prices. Economists widely agree land taxes reduce land values, which makes housing more affordable. However, the impact of removing stamp duty is less predictable. Our previous research found <a href="https://theconversation.com/swapping-stamp-duty-for-land-tax-would-push-down-house-prices-but-push-up-apartment-prices-new-modelling-finds-184381">the effect on house prices</a> depends on how often properties are bought and sold. Apartments, for example, tend to change hands more frequently than houses. Because of this, removing stamp duty tends to push up apartment prices more than house prices. Even so, the overall effect of the reform is a drop in property prices. The challenge is ensuring this price reduction is evenly spread across different types of housing. <h2>A fairer tax system</h2> To make the system fairer, policymakers could adjust how land tax is applied. One option is to introduce a fixed-rate component, as <a href="https://www.revenue.nsw.gov.au/grants-schemes/previous-schemes/first-home-buyer-choice">proposed </a> in New South Wales. Another idea, suggested 15 years ago in the <a href="https://treasury.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-10/afts_final_report_part_1_consolidated.pdf">Henry Tax Review</a>, is to base the tax on the per-square-metre value of land. Another key factor is housing supply. If planning laws allow more high-density housing in inner suburbs, price changes could be better managed. <h2>We also need short-term solutions</h2> Replacing stamp duty with land tax is a long-term reform that would take years to fully implement. The ACT, for example, planned a 20-year transition. If all state governments implemented this reform, we estimate Australian households would ultimately be <a href="https://www.copsmodels.com/ftp/workpapr/g-337.pdf">better off by about</a> $,1600 per household per year. In the short term, <a href="https://theconversation.com/whats-the-best-way-to-ease-rents-and-improve-housing-affordability-we-modelled-4-of-the-governments-biggest-programs-225446">other policies </a> could help improve housing affordability. These include increasing Commonwealth Rent Assistance and rethinking first-home buyer support. These steps could complement broader tax, infrastructure and housing supply reforms. The Victorian government is <a href="https://engage.vic.gov.au/victorias30yearinfrastructurestrategy">seeking feedback</a> on the draft plan before releasing the final version later this year. This is an opportunity for Victorians to contribute ideas on how to shape the state’s future and ensure its infrastructure and tax system work for everyone.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/251472/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jason-nassios-318488">Jason Nassios</a>, Associate Professor, Centre of Policy Studies, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/victoria-university-1175">Victoria University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/james-giesecke-9853">James Giesecke</a>, Professor, Centre of Policy Studies and the Impact Project, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/victoria-university-1175">Victoria University</a> This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/replacing-stamp-duty-with-a-land-tax-could-save-home-buyers-big-money-heres-how-251472">original article</a>. Image: 7news.com.au </div>

Money & Banking

Cricket great takes aim at Albo's beer tax freeze

Cricket great David Warner has slammed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's move to combat soaring beer prices. On Monday, Albanese promised to pause the government's tax hike on beers poured at pubs for the next two years. Albanese announced the policy while enjoying his "first beer of the year" at the Bob Hawke Beer and Leisure Centre in Marrickville. "This will make a difference. It is a positive announcement. As I said, good for beer drinkers, good for pubs and clubs, good for cost of living pressures," he said. Australia's inflation-indexed alcohol tax - which increases twice annually - has long been an issue for breweries, pub owners and customers. This month, there was a 3.5 per cent rise on the price of beer, an additional cost that usually gets passed onto the customer. The Prime Minister said if he is re-elected, the Labor government would freeze the indexation on draught beer excise for 24 months from the next indexation date this coming August. However, Warner believes this move is a "few years too late," slamming the Prime Minister's pledge on social media. Warner, who is an investor and director of Victoria's St Andrews Beach Brewery, has been affected by the rising prices. Shortly after Albanese's announcement, Coalition treasury spokesman Angus Taylor said Peter Dutton, if elected, would also freeze tax. "The government has chosen the eve of an election to promise voters a freeze on a tax that has skyrocketed due to its failure to address inflation at its core," Taylor said. Image: LUKAS COCH/EPA-EFE/ Shutterstock Editorial/ Instagram

Money & Banking

Use it or lose it as historic super cap prepares to expire

Jordan Kennedy is a Partner at accounting and advisory firm Pitcher Partners Sydney. Australians could be sitting on a golden opportunity to spur their super savings this year — but if they don’t act fast, they will miss out. That’s because in July they will lose the entitlement to claim any unused superannuation tax concessions from 2019-20, known as the concessional cap. The concessional cap is the total annual amount that can be contributed into super by a person’s employer, through salary sacrifice or claimed as a tax deduction, before the person is charged at the ordinary taxable rate. In other words, for most Australians there is a gap between what they or their employer contribute each year and the total amount they could contribute, taking advantage of tax concessions. In 2019-20, that capped amount was $25,000, and unless people were making or receiving contributions above the superannuation guarantee, they would have needed to earn about $260,000 to hit the cap. If they didn’t, there may still be ‘available’ cap that has built up over the last five years and can be used to access the 15% tax rate on earnings — until July 1, when the cap expires. While this sounds technical, reviewing past superannuation contributions and checking to see that caps have been maxed out is one of the easiest ways to achieve a tax deduction. Of course, there are a few aspects to this strategy that bear consideration. The concession cap system is a use it or lose it play. Any gap between contributions and cap will expire after five years, so this is the last chance to retrospectively boost your superannuation using the 2019-20 cap. That said, as this is the first year we have seen the cap expire, it might have slipped the minds of many. Even if you have maxed out the cap for that year, you should take the opportunity to look at more recent years as well to see if you have been carrying forward an available pool of tax concessions. The second thing to note is that the vast majority of Australians will have a tax cap opportunity available. For anyone on an average salary, the cap gap can grow by $10,000 or more each year, unless additional contributions are made through salary sacrifice or as a tax deduction. The concession is also available for those who might have stopped work to have children or who are reducing their workload approaching retirement. Check with your accountant or your super fund — you might have tens of thousands of dollars in tax concessions available for use. Thirdly, consider your timing. If you know you will have tax capacity in coming years, try to time your use for those years where you have a significant tax event, such as realising capital gains. This can reduce your tax liability without disrupting your other plans. In this case, seeking strategic advice is extremely important to determine the optimal outcome for your circumstances. And finally, recognise there are exceptions. People whose superannuation balance is already over $500,000 are excluded from taking advantage of the cap rollover, but could still benefit from advice on how they should balance their tax liabilities while maximising their superannuation. Whatever your circumstance, speaking to a qualified, independent advisor is the first step to ensure you are working within the complex rules that govern super and taking best advantage of the tax concessions available. But if there is an opportunity to reduce your tax liability for limited effort, you would be mad not to explore your options. Image credits: Shutterstock

Retirement Income

New Zealand's tourism campaign targeted at Aussies ridiculed

New Zealand's new tourism campaign aimed at getting Aussies to travel across the ditch has been slammed for its simple three-word slogan. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced the campaign, which cost $500,000, on Sunday, saying, “My message to Australians is it’s time to swap the thongs for the jandals, the Hunter Valley for the Hawke’s Bay and get the bloody hell over here.” The number of Aussies visiting New Zealand have not bounced back to pre-pandemic levels, sitting at 88 per cent of what they were in 2019. While the investment into the campaign was largely welcomed, some people were not thrilled about the slogan that reads, "Everyone must go". Labour’s tourism spokesperson Cushla Tangaere-Manuel told Radio NZ that “it makes New Zealand sound like we’re in a clearance bin at a sale”. “We’ve had the digital nomad announcement, now we’ve got this – and the attitude of anyone, anytime, anywhere, is concerning,” she said. Meanwhile, Green Party tourism spokesperson Celia Wade-Brown quipped: “I think ‘Everyone Must Go’ might refer to the need for toilets in some of our high-tourist spots. I mean, the queues are ridiculous.” Radio listeners also called up the public broadcaster to criticise the campaign and offer their own hilarious ideas to entice Aussies across the pond. “No crocs, no snakes, no killer spiders, no cane toads, no 50C heat, no red dirt – see you soon,” one person suggested. Other Kiwis across social media claim the slogan better describes the exodus of their own residents, after a record number of people – 72,000 – left the country in 2024, according to Stats NZ. “Everyone is going … to Australia,” one person wrote on the PM’s Instagram announcement, while another added, “Everyone is going, you don’t have to say it." “I think our Aussie mates are getting enough of a Kiwi experience in their own neighbourhood, hiring our nurses, teachers, police, engineers and doctors,” wrote a third. Image credits: NZ Tourism

Travel Trouble

From the Big Bogan to Larry the Lobster, why do towns build Big Things?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amy-clarke-248726">Amy Clarke</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-the-sunshine-coast-1068">University of the Sunshine Coast</a> Big Things first appeared in Australia in the 1960s, beginning with the <a href="https://sahistoryhub.history.sa.gov.au/things/big-scotsman/">Big Scotsman</a> (1962) in Medindie, South Australia, the <a href="https://bigbanana.com">Big Banana</a> (1964) in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, and the <a href="https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/country-nsw/the-murray/tocumwal/attractions/big-murray-cod">Big Murray Cod</a> (1968) in Tocumwal, NSW. These structures were inspired by earlier North American examples, such as <a href="https://lucytheelephant.org">Lucy the Elephant</a> (1882) in New Jersey, and several <a href="https://www.laconservancy.org/learn/historic-places/randys-donuts/">big doughnuts in California</a>. While they differed in subject matter, all aimed to attract the attention of passing motorists: in the 1950s–1960s, private car ownership had soared and highway construction spread. Towns and regions across Australia, <a href="https://ourwayoflife.co.nz/11-iconic-big-thing-statues-around-new-zealand/">New Zealand</a> and North America used oversized landmarks to get travellers to stop, take a photo and hopefully spend money at local businesses. As awareness of these giant landmarks grew, so did the desire of other communities to have their own. Within a few decades, Australia’s Big Things had become a beloved fixture of road trips and summer holidays. <h2>A big cultural impact</h2> <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14443058.2022.2144928">My research</a> shows the number of Big Things being constructed in Australia hit an initial peak in the 1980s before experiencing a temporary decline. By the 2000s, however, towns as far afield as Tully in Queensland (<a href="https://www.australiantraveller.com/qld/big-gumboot/">Big Golden Gumboot</a>), Cressy in Tasmania (<a href="https://www.aussietowns.com.au/town/cressy-tas">Big Trout</a>), and Exmouth in Western Australia (<a href="https://www.exmouth.wa.gov.au/news/exmouths-iconic-and-much-loved-crustacean-is-back/358">Big Prawn</a>) were reviving the tradition. Soon, Big Things became firmly entrenched in Australian popular culture: featuring on limited edition <a href="https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/sunshine-coast/redheads-pay-homage-to-icons/news-story/219026f222830073f4db107759e1145c">Redheads matchboxes</a> (2010), and on sets of <a href="https://australiapostcollectables.com.au/stamp-issues/aussie-big-things">Australia Post stamps </a>(2007 and 2023). But some of the older structures experienced declining popularity: the Big Wool Bales in Hamilton, Victoria (closed 2020), Victoria’s Giant Gippsland Earth Worm in Bass (closed 2020) and the Big Cask Wine in Mourquong, NSW (closed 2012), survive only in holiday photos and people’s memories. Icons like Larry the Lobster (Kingston, SA), the Big Prawn (Ballina, NSW), and the Big Pineapple (Nambour, Queensland) have battled <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/30/world/australia/larry-lobster-big-things-sale.html">changes in ownership</a>, <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2009-09-24/council-votes-to-sink-big-prawn/1441452">threat of demolition</a>, and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/aug/24/big-pineapple-reopen-queensland-woombye-history">closure</a>. Despite these challenges, and debates over heritage conservation, construction of these giant landmarks has not slowed. <a href="https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/outback-nsw/cobar-area/nyngan/attractions/big-bogan">The Big Bogan</a> was erected in 2015 in Nyngan, NSW, by community members who were eager to encourage visitors to the area. A local progress association in the small town of Thallon in Queensland unveiled William the <a href="https://www.stgeorgeregion.com.au/listing/william-the-wombat/">Big Wombat</a> in 2018, also with the aim to bring attention to the area. Similar hopes were held for the <a href="https://www.queensland.com/au/en/things-to-do/attractions/p-5f72991d4390bc7c02ab8547-the-big-melon">Big Watermelon</a> erected in 2018 (Chinchilla, Queensland), and the Big Tractor (Carnamah, WA) <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-05/midwest-wa-town-carnamah-unveils-worlds-biggest-tractor/104388496">which opened this year</a>. Through my research, I spoke with many people involved with projects such as these, and they said they’d selected objects that were iconic to their area. This could be a product they specialise in, a local native animal, or, in the case of the Big Bogan, a joke based on the name of nearby Bogan River. Most builders openly acknowledge their primary motivation is to promote the region, attract tourist dollars and investment, and revive towns that have seen better days. But do Big Things actually achieve these goals? Unfortunately, there is no easy answer. <h2>An economic return?</h2> Local economies are complex, as are the reasons people choose to visit. Many Big Things are constructed on the sides of highways that connect Australia’s numerous regional towns. People who stop for photos may not set out with the goal of visiting that Big Thing – it may simply be convenient to take a break there while on the way somewhere else. And if people do stop, it doesn’t guarantee they will spend more than the cost of filling up their car with petrol, if that. Over the years, tourism researchers have developed <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1447677021000322">several different models </a>for calculating the impact of rural and regional tourism on local economies. However, none of these approaches has proven to be universally effective. Most scholars agree tourists aren’t likely to travel long distances <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/21568316.2019.1673811">for any one reason</a>. They will consider a range of factors including food and accommodation, and the closeness of numerous attractions. In other words: building a Big Thing won’t guarantee a sustained increase in tourism to the area on its own. Communities should factor this in when considering erection of a Big Thing, especially given the cost of construction. The Big Mango in Bowen <a href="http://www.atlasobscura.com/places/the-big-mango">reportedly cost $A90,000</a> when it was built in 2002, while the organisers of the Big Tractor in Carnamah <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-05/midwest-wa-town-carnamah-unveils-worlds-biggest-tractor/104388496">raised more than $600,000</a> to cover its price tag. The spread of social media and easy access to media outlets via the internet offers communities another reason to build Big Things, however. Australians are not the only ones fascinated by Big Things, and when a new one is unveiled — or an existing one goes “missing”, as <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-26324023">the Big Mango did in 2014</a> — it is often covered by the press and then shared online. These giant landmarks are also highly “Instagrammable”: <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3039474/The-20-hottest-Australian-attractions-Instagram-revealed-spectacular-Sydney-Opera-House-Twelve-Apostles-don-t-forget-Big-Banana.html">a 2015 survey</a> revealed that six of Australia’s 20 most Instagrammed tourist attractions were Big Things. This sort of coverage doesn’t necessarily guarantee the long-term revival of a town’s economy. But it can help to remind people of the town’s existence, and it gives locals a memorable image on which to build.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/241129/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amy-clarke-248726">Amy Clarke</a>, Senior Lecturer in History, specialising in built heritage and material culture, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-the-sunshine-coast-1068">University of the Sunshine Coast</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/from-the-big-bogan-to-larry-the-lobster-why-do-towns-build-big-things-241129">original article</a>. </div>

Domestic Travel

Airline forced to apologise over controversial tourism ad

An airline has copped major backlash over a controversial tourism campaign that promotes their return flights to Paris. Pakistan International Airlines posted a photo of a plane flying at the Eiffel Tower on X as part of its campaign to mark the first flight from Islamabad to Paris after a safety ban was lifted. “Paris, we’re coming today,” the ad reads. The campaign has been viewed more than 21 million times, but after receiving thousands of negative comments, the airline was forced to issue an apology. Many social media users drew comparisons with the Al-Qaeda attacks on New York’s Twin Towers on September 11th 2001 when two planes were hijacked and flown into the skyscrapers, killing nearly 3,000 people. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <a href="https://t.co/qUoNCyL385">pic.twitter.com/qUoNCyL385</a> — PIA (@Official_PIA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Official_PIA/status/1877555588533485884?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2025</a></blockquote> “This advertisement is sickening to see. Please do better with your imagery,” an irate user wrote. “Do you not see the airplane heading for the Eiffel Tower? Do you not know what it will be perceived as?” Another wrote, “Who tf made this graphic to further ruin Pakistan’s image in the world,” while others questioned how the graphic was approved, adding, “Who thought this ad was a good idea?” “Is this (an) advertisement or threat?” another user asked. After being online for a week, the airline issued an apology saying it was “blown out of proportion”. “Unfortunately, this was blown out of proportion with connations and perceptions that were not intended,” PIA spokesman Abdullah Khan told AFP. “It might have triggered some negative emotion, for which we truly apologise.” Despite the controversy, the ad remains on the airline's official X account. Image credits: Pakistan International Airlines

Travel Trouble

Tourism hotspot in Italy attracts attention for selling strange souvenir

Italy’s picturesque region of Lake Como has started selling a unique souvenir, making many people raise their eyebrows. The north Italian tourist hotspot has long been known for being the backdrop of many Hollywood films, while also hosting countless celebrity weddings, with many famous faces owning houses in the region. For those travelling to the stunning Lake Como and wanting to purchase a souvenir to remind them of their travels, you can now forgo the classic keyring or magnet for a more unique souvenir item. Communications company ItalyComunica says it has bottled the very air of Italy’s picturesque Lake Como and is selling these cans for €9.90 ($16 AUD) apiece. Each can is said to contain 400 millilitres of “100% authentic air” collected from Lake Como, with the website stating buyers can “Open it whenever you need a moment of escape, tranquillity, or simply beauty.” In an attempt to capitalise on the ever-growing visitor numbers, marketing specialist Davide Abagnale originally created the e-commerce site to sell dedicated Lake Como posters, before delving into the world of the unique souvenirs. His latest initiative of selling canned air aims to “create a souvenir that could be easily transported in a suitcase for tourists” and “something original, fun and even provocative.” Abagnale told <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/11/04/travel/lake-como-air-cans-on-sale-intl-scli/index.html">CNN</a>, “It’s not a product, it’s a tangible memory that you carry in your heart,” adding that once tourists are home and have opened the can, they can repurpose it as a souvenir pen holder or plant holder. Not everyone was first onboard with the idea, as Como mayor Alessandro Rapinese said it wouldn’t be his first idea for tourists, and would prefer they take home other souvenirs, like the silk scarves the area is known for. “It’s a novel idea, but not for everyone,” he told CNN. “But as mayor of one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, if someone wants to take some of their air home, that’s fine as long as they also take beautiful memories of this area.” Image credits: ItalyComunica/CNN/Shutterstock

International Travel

Chris Hemsworth's new tourism ad triggers major backlash

Chris Hemsworth and his wife Elsa Pataky have come under fire after appearing in a major tourism campaign for Abu Dhabi. The Aussie actor and his Spanish model wife feature both feature in the production, that shows them having an intense day on-set of a fake action movie. While both dangling from the side of a building between takes, the duo claim they could “use a vacation about now”, before the ad showcases the best Abu Dhabi has to offer. With their three children in tow, Hemsworth and Pataky are shown enjoying various tourist attractions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) capital, including open-top car rides in the desert, surfing, relaxing massages and trips to the city’s National Aquarium and theme park. The video was posted by the official Abu Dhabi Instagram account, and quickly racked up thousands of comments from keen travellers saying the video had convinced them to book a holiday in the UAE. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DB_XZUvJO8g/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DB_XZUvJO8g/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Experience Abu Dhabi (@visitabudhabi)</a> </div> </blockquote> However, many commenters weren't quite as happy, as hundreds of fans questioned why Hemsworth, who has an estimated net worth of $225 million, would opt to promote a tourist destination that is notorious for restricted human rights. “Is he running out of money?” one person questioned, while another added, “Just got to ignore all the human rights abuses." “Not much of a vacation if you’re a member of the LGBTQIA+ community,” a third wrote. “A country without women’s rights and workers’ rights. An amazing thing to promote with your huge celebrity,” a fourth added. Abu Dhabi has a long and chequered history when it comes to human rights, with archaic laws inhibiting women’s rights, restricted freedom of speech and the continued criminalisation of homosexuality. Image credits: Instagram

Travel Trouble

‘Dark tourism’ is attracting visitors to war zones and sites of atrocities in Israel and Ukraine. Why?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/juliet-rogers-333488">Juliet Rogers</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> There is a disturbing trend of people travelling to the sadder places of the world: sites of military attacks, war zones and disasters. Dark tourism is now a phenomenon, with <a href="https://dark-tourism.com/">its own website</a> and dedicated tour guides. People visit these places to mourn, or to remember and honour the dead. But sometimes they just want to look, and sometimes they want to delight in the pain of others. Of course, people have long visited places like the <a href="https://www.auschwitz.org/en/visiting/guided-tours-for-individual-visitors/">Auschwitz-Birkenau</a> Memorial, <a href="https://www.911memorial.org/911-faqs">the site of the Twin Towers</a> destroyed in the 9/11 attacks, <a href="https://www.robben-island.org.za/tour-types/">Robben Island Prison</a>, where Nelson Mandela and others spent many years, and more recently, <a href="https://chernobyl-tour.com/english/">the Chernobyl nuclear power plant</a>. But there are more recent destinations, connected to active wars and aggression. Since the <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/2024/10/11/one-year-hamas-oct-attack-israel-northern-border-1961816.html">Hamas military attacks</a> of October 7 2023, in which around 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 taken hostage, celebrities and tourists have visited the related sites of the Nova music festival and the Nir Oz Kibbutz in Palestine/Israel. The kibbutz tours, guided by former residents, allow people to view and be guided through houses of the dead, to be shown photographs and bullet holes. Sderot, the biggest city targeted by Hamas, is offering <a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-hamas-oct-7-tourism-sderot-8b21f590c37fa6780bf9190d6bfb62b7">what it describes as “resilience tours”</a>, connecting tourists with October 7 survivors. Similar places are visited <a href="https://wartours.in.ua/2023/02/25/dark-tourism-in-ukraine/">in Ukraine</a>. The “popular” Donbas war tour, for instance, takes visitors to the front lines of the conflict and offers “a firsthand look at the impact of the war on the local population”, introducing them to displaced locals, soldiers and volunteer fighters. There’s also <a href="https://wartours.in.ua/en/">a Kyiv tour</a>, which takes in destroyed military equipment and what remains of missile strikes. <h2>Solidarity tours</h2> These tours have various names, but <a href="https://touringisrael.com/tour/october-7-solidarity-tour/">one Israeli company</a> calls them “solidarity tours”. The idea of solidarity lessens the presumption of voyeurism, or the accusation of ghoulish enjoyment of pain or suffering. It suggests an affinity with those who have died or those who have lost loved ones. But solidarity is a political affiliation too. These tours are not only therapeutic. They are not only about “bearing witness”, as many guides and visitors attest. They are also about solidarity with the struggle. What is this struggle? Genocide scholar Dirk Moses <a href="https://www.bostonreview.net/articles/more-than-genocide/">has written thoughtfully</a> on this after October 7. Colonial states seek not just security, but “permanent security”. This makes them hyper-defensive of their borders. Israel was created as a nation <a href="https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/truman-israel/">by the newly formed United Nations</a> in 1947, two years after the end of World War II and in the shadow of the Holocaust: it was an inevitable product of the <a href="https://theconversation.com/a-century-on-the-balfour-declaration-still-shapes-palestinians-everyday-lives-86662">Balfour Declaration</a> (1917) that carved up the Middle East. The creation of the Israeli state turned relationships between Palestinians and Jewish people into borders to navigate and police, producing a line of security to defend. These borders have long been sites of humiliation and denigration toward Palestinians, whose homelands have been now occupied for many generations. Israeli Defense Force soldiers themselves <a href="https://www.breakingthesilence.org.il/testimonies/videos/29690">have spoken passionately</a> about the brutal and arbitrary violence that occurs there, <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10978-016-9195-y">including “creative punishments”</a>. These were the borders that protected the sites targeted by Hamas. The Nova music festival was five kilometres from one of these borders. For many Israelis, any breach of those borders, any sense of loss of control, courts the terrors of the past. It raises the spectre of the Holocaust: the destruction of European Jewry, the loss of sovereignty over family, home, and over life, the loss of millions of lives, again. For Israel, as for any colonial state, security is a permanent aspiration, in Moses’s terms. The stakes are high. Dark tourism, seen in this light, is not only solidarity with those who have lost loved ones on October 7. It is solidarity with the border, with those who have lost that security. And that loss is profound, traumatic and, at least psychologically, can provoke violent reactions in an effort to have the borders – geographical and psychological – reasserted. <h2>‘I stand with you’</h2> Transitional justice mechanisms such as the truth commissions in <a href="https://www.justice.gov.za/trc/">South Africa</a>, <a href="https://www.usip.org/publications/2002/02/truth-commission-timor-leste-east-timor">Timor Leste</a> and <a href="https://www.usip.org/publications/1983/12/truth-commission-argentina">Argentina</a> apply legal frameworks to heal nations from the trauma of crimes against humanity. These mechanisms are one choice after experiences of mass violence. Ironically, their catchphrase is Nunca Mas (never again), which was the title of the 1984 report by Argentina’s <a href="https://www.usip.org/publications/1983/12/truth-commission-argentina">National Commission on the Dissappeared</a>. Permanent security of the kind Israel is seeking is another choice – and its catchphrase might well be the same. Never again will Israel’s borders be breached, never again will Jewish life be subjected to mass destruction with impunity. This is what solidarity can mean: not only grieving alongside those who have suffered, but attachment to an identity and borders, which are reinforced through participation. “I stand with you” is perhaps what the visits are for. I stand with you on this land, at this time, and perhaps for all time. But stand beside you in what now? In grief, yes. But also in rage, in pain, in vengeance and, for some, in making Israel great again. The hashtag #standwithus accompanies some calls for visits to the October 7 sites, for this form of tourism. It means stand with us at Israel’s border. From there, you can hear the sound of bombs falling: <a href="https://inews.co.uk/news/world/israel-7-october-massacre-sites-dark-draw-tourists-3101715">in Gaza</a>, a place where no solidarity tour will go. Yet. <h2>Memorials, grief and understanding</h2> Dark tourism is not always for those associated with the events. Some people visit sites of disaster and loss because they want to understand the greater sadnesses of the world and its formidable brutalities. Some want to show their respect to others. It’s not dissimilar to visiting memorials. Memorials collate the disparate parts of grief and reflect it as public memory. They offer fragments of historical pain that can be borne in more than one mind, to create a shared reality. In Pretoria, South Africa, a memorial called <a href="https://www.freedompark.co.za/">Freedom Park</a> depicts the names of every person who died in every war fought in South Africa, as well as those South Africans who died in the world wars. The names are written on a wall that circles the park. It is impossibly long and circular, and you cannot measure it with your own stride. It is disorientating and interminable, like grief. In this memorial-metaphor, you are unable to comprehend – and at the same time are awash with – a history of loss, represented by the names. The walls contain you, and then they cannot. Grief and even solidarity is not always about comprehension or containment. Sometimes it is about proximity. Sometimes, it is about sitting with not knowing. Sometimes, it is about solidarity with something that cannot be made sense of. Trauma, psychoanalysis tells us, is an experience of what we cannot assimilate. If you sit in proximity to people and places where traumatic events have happened, you can learn something. If you see the bullet holes at a site of loss, you can comprehend something. But not everything. Bullet holes in a wall are the very definition of a partial story. People visit memorials and sites of loss to learn and to unlearn. Dark tourism has this quality. <h2>Obscenity of understanding</h2> In my field, criminology and trauma studies, we try to understand why people do the violent things they do. Holocaust filmmaker and commentator <a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/26303924">Claude Lanzmann has said</a> we must not indulge in what he calls the “obscenity of the project of understanding” in relation to Nazi perpetrators of the Holocaust. He regards curiosity about the minds of perpetrators and the rationale for violence as a violence in itself. Of the Holocaust, he says you cannot ask “Why were the Jews killed?”. It is the result that matters. But it is also the reaction that matters. The state of Israel itself – permanent security and its attendant horrors – is part of that reaction. But understanding can influence the reaction to violence, and contribute something to the promise of Never Again. Understanding allows us to hold more than one story in mind. It allows us to do more than <a href="https://www.ochaopt.org/">count the more than 1,200 killed</a> in Israel, or the 41,689 (plus) Palestinians killed in Gaza. Bodies are always more than numbers. But explanation is one thing, justification another. Justification is best left to the courts, international or otherwise, after the violence has ceased. It is hard to hear about dark tourism in Israel/Palestine and in Ukraine and try to understand it. It is hard not to condemn the tourists. But we are quick to condemn at this time – and even quicker to demand others do the same. Perhaps we should not be so righteous, and we should resist the urge to easily condemn, from our homes in what <a href="https://www.mup.com.au/books/after-mabo-paperback-softback">Tim Rowse has called</a> the “ongoing colonial encounter sometimes called ‘Australia’”. Indigenous people here speak of the lack of memorials on this land. But every bordered property is a site for dark tourism in Australia. Dark tourism is the effort to seek out destinations of violence and devastation, but it is not hard to see genocide from our front door in this country.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/240119/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/juliet-rogers-333488">Juliet Rogers</a>, Associate Professor Criminology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/dark-tourism-is-attracting-visitors-to-war-zones-and-sites-of-atrocities-in-israel-and-ukraine-why-240119">original article</a>. </div>

Travel Trouble

Climate change threatens Australian tourism more than is widely believed. Here’s why

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/freya-higgins-desbiolles-181651">Freya Higgins-Desbiolles</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a> Right now, Australia is one of the <a href="https://www.weforum.org/publications/travel-tourism-development-index-2024/">top five</a> tourist destinations in the world, a distinction the World Economic Forum says it shares with only the United States, France, Spain and Japan. So important is tourism to Australia’s economy that the best estimates are it employs <a href="https://www.tra.gov.au/en/economic-analysis/state-of-the-industry">655,000</a> people, 12 times as many as <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/labour/employment-and-unemployment/labour-force-australia-detailed/jul-2024">Australia’s coal industry</a>. And most of them are employed in <a href="https://www.zurich.com.au/content/dam/au-documents/files/zurich-mandala-climate-risk-index-the-impact-of-climate-change-on-the-australian-tourism-industry.pdf">regional locations</a>, where jobs are scarce. This month a report by the Zurich insurance group and the economic consultancy Mandala found <a href="https://www.zurich.com.au/content/dam/au-documents/files/zurich-mandala-climate-risk-index-the-impact-of-climate-change-on-the-australian-tourism-industry.pdf">half</a> of Australia’s top 178 tourism assets were at risk from foreseeable climate change. There are reasons to believe its findings underplay what we are facing. <h2>All major airports, all national parks at risk</h2> The Zurich-Mandala report examines the impact of a 2⁰C increase in global temperatures on only eight so-called “climate perils”: wind, flood, heat, storm, drought, bushfire, hail and rain. It found that more than half of Australia’s top tourism assets faced a “significant risk from multiple perils” over the next 25 years, including all of Australia’s major airports. Scheduling disruptions and the closure of airports in extreme weather conditions were set to have major impacts on the transport of goods, the transport of tourists and accessibility for emergency services. All of Australia’s vineyards, national parks, scenic roads and railways were at risk. Queensland had the highest number of sites facing significant risk (79%) followed by Western Australia (69%) and the Northern Territory (63%). The report uses the impact of the 2019-20 <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Parliamentary_Departments/Parliamentary_Library/pubs/rp/rp1920/Quick_Guides/AustralianBushfires">black summer bushfires</a> to estimate that 176,000 jobs might be at risk nationwide from predictable climate change, most of them outside of Australia’s capital cities. <h2>Multiple and interacting threats</h2> Here is why I am fearful that the report underplays the threat Australia’s tourism industry is facing. There are many more threats to tourism from climate change than wind, flood, heat, storm, drought, bushfire, hail and rain. One is the threat to biodiversity. Iconic animals and habitats are an important part of Australia’s brand. <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-07-28/3-billion-animals-killed-displaced-in-fires-wwf-study/12497976">Three billion</a> animals were killed or displaced in the black summer bushfires. The deaths caused <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/apr/01/alexis-wright-black-summer-bushfires-vigil-sydney-speech-3-billion-animals-killed-are-our-relatives-they-deserve-to-be-mourned">loss and grief</a> that risk indexes are incapable of capturing, but that nonetheless might make tourism less attractive. And biodiversity helps in another way by <a href="https://www.australianwildlife.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Hayward-Et-Al.-2016-Could-biodiversity-loss-have-increased-Australias-bushfire-threat.pdf">protecting against bushfires</a>, meaning that as species vanish, other risks to tourism climb in ways that aren’t captured in the assumptions used to evaluate risk. <h2>Threats unexamined</h2> What makes holiday locations unattractive is hard to measure, but is fed by extreme weather events. Although temporary, the smoke and heat from the 2019-20 bushfires made parts of Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra almost unlivable for a while, damaging the reputations of Australian capital cities in a way that is <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/not-a-good-look-bushfire-smoke-threatens-to-pollute-sydney-s-tourist-image-20191206-p53hpl.html">probably ongoing</a>. Another curious omission, especially curious given that the report was prepared by an insurance company, is the damage extreme weather events do to the insurability of tourism assets. The report is also silent on the effort to reduce carbon emissions on Australia’s desirability as an international destination. For many tourists, air travel is the only way to get to Australia and it is likely to become more expensive and also less attractive as tourists try to reduce their <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0959652614011810">carbon footprints</a>. Australia might increasingly become an Australian rather than an international destination. Our biggest upcoming international promotion, the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, might lose a good deal of its shine, with Queensland tourism assets at the greatest risk from climate change, and those risks set to climb over time. <h2>The higher the temperature the bigger the threats</h2> Zurich and the Mandala consultancy are to be commended for identifying 178 top tourism assets and examining eight types of risk they face. Their finding that just over half of them face serious threats from those risks is likely to be an underestimate because it excludes other risks and fails to examine the way in which some risks can intensify others. And they will be an underestimate if global temperatures climb by more than 2⁰C. The report says if global temperatures climb to 3⁰C above pre-industrial levels, 80% of the Australian sites it examined will face serious threats. Australia could attempt to limit the increase in global temperatures by taking up the opportunity to co-host the <a href="https://theconversation.com/its-a-big-deal-if-australia-and-the-pacific-are-chosen-to-host-un-climate-talks-heres-why-238320">2026 UN climate talks</a> with Pacific nations. It would give us a shot at making a difference and drawing attention to our present status as one of the world’s top tourism destinations.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/238768/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/freya-higgins-desbiolles-181651">Freya Higgins-Desbiolles</a>, Adjunct professor and adjunct senior lecturer in tourism management, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/climate-change-threatens-australian-tourism-more-than-is-widely-believed-heres-why-238768">original article</a>. </div>

Domestic Travel

Australia's best regional town revealed

As the weather starts to warm up and people begin planning their summer getaways, more and more Australians are opting for a quaint country getaway instead of a jam-packed city break. According to Tourism Research Australia (TRA), regional tourism numbers have increased overall in the 12 months leading up to March 2024, with many choosing to explore quieter corners of Australia. As a result of this new travel trend, <a href="https://travel.nine.com.au/destinations/aussie-travel-trends-index-best-regional-town-in-australia-voted-by-travellers-9travel-today-survey/0d308119-ede0-495f-9e71-c3b26b267ccf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9Travel</a> released their results of the <a href="https://travel.nine.com.au/travel-survey" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Aussie Travel Trends Index</a> survey to find out which regional towns are the favourites of Australian travellers, with the top ten towns being crowned. While NSW received the highest number of visitors to regional areas, according to the TRA data, it was in fact Daylesford in Victoria that was voted as Australia's favourite regional town. Located in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range of Victoria, Daylesford is known for its natural mineral springs, Botanical Gardens and quaint city centre. Daylesford and Cairns are the most popular regional towns to visit for around 1 in 4 respondents; followed closely by the Gold Coast, Launceston, Barossa, Bendigo, and Ballarat. Nearly a quarter of respondents, (23 percent) named Cairns as their favourite regional town, Tasmania also received 20 percent of respondents sharing their love for the town of Launceston. Check out the top 10 list of best Australian regional towns below. 1. Daylesford, VIC 2. Cairns, QLD 3. Gold Coast, QLD 4. Launceston, TAS 5. Barossa, SA 6. Bendigo, VIC 7. Ballarat, VIC 8. Orange, NSW 9. Berry, NSW 10. Mudgee, NSW Image credits: Shutterstock

Domestic Travel

Crowds, water guns and protests: could ‘slow tourism’ be the answer to an overtourism backlash?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amy-errmann-1360032">Amy Errmann</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/auckland-university-of-technology-1137">Auckland University of Technology</a> With overtourism in the spotlight as the travel industry continues to rebound after the pandemic, popular destinations around the world are feeling the strain. Bali is overwhelmed by <a href="https://thebalisun.com/concerns-increasing-about-impact-of-trash-and-traffic-on-bali-tourists/">waste and traffic</a>, Australia’s sacred sites have suffered <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-50151344">environmental damage</a>, New York is facing rising rents <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/oct/23/new-york-airbnb-crackdown-rules-housing">due to short-term rentals</a>, and Singapore’s scenic spots are becoming <a href="https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/overtourism-locals-tourists-sustainable-tourism-stb-focus-4517681">clogged with crowds</a>. Frustrated locals are pushing back – from <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/travel/barcelona-locals-spray-tourists-with-water-guns-during-protest-over-housing-costs/FUFHXKO5X5F5NNPSU6ELNVGSIA/">spraying water at tourists </a> in Barcelona to <a href="https://adventure.com/venice-locals-squatting-against-overtourism-photography/">organising protests in Venice</a>. As the northern hemisphere high season ends, Aotearoa New Zealand is preparing for an influx of visitors ahead of its summer tourism season. And much like those other <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/09/08/world/europe/greece-cruise-ships-tourists-islands.html">tourist hotspots</a>, the government is looking at how to manage the negative effects of tourism on local communities and the environment. This includes tripling the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/article/2024/sep/04/new-zealand-to-nearly-triple-tourist-tax-for-international-visitors">international tourist tax</a> from NZ$35 to $100. The aim of the increase is to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/aug/11/new-zealand-tourism-minister-makes-pitch-to-the-rich-as-he-spurns-10-a-day-travellers">attract tourists</a> who are more mindful of their impact and willing to contribute to its mitigation, while also <a href="https://theconversation.com/welcome-to-nz-now-pay-up-the-risks-and-rewards-of-raising-the-foreign-tourist-tax-232138">reducing visitor numbers</a> to protect the country’s unique landscapes and cultures. But are there other ways the tourism industry can evolve to ensure benefits for both travellers and the communities they are visiting? So called “slow travel” could be the answer. <h2>Hunting the perfect photo</h2> Overtourism isn’t just about too many people in one place. It’s also about how people travel. <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/social-media-tourism-effect-scn-wellness/index.html">Instagram-famous</a> landmarks draw massive crowds, <a href="https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/406195/visitors-ignore-ban-continue-to-visit-mermaid-pools-in-northland-hapu">disrupting local life</a> and sometimes even <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/travel/vermot-town-famous-for-fall-foliage-bans-instagram-tourists-from-streets/BHKEYKKUTNHORFT6QCZ5TW333A/#google_vignette">leading to closures</a>. Travellers often pack their itineraries with as many sights as possible, racing from one place to another in a frenzy to capture the perfect photo. This hurried approach not only creates <a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-06-19/barcelona-bhutan-places-that-limit-tourist-numbers">congestion</a> but also limits <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41599-024-02859-z">meaningful engagement with the destination</a>. And it’s not just a numbers game. The way tourists behave also plays a critical role. A <a href="https://www.rnz.co.nz/national/programmes/ninetonoon/audio/2018690535/tropical-trash-the-impact-of-holidaying-in-the-pacific">2019 report</a> from the United Nations raised concerns about trash from tourists in developing small island states, including the Pacific Islands. According to the report, a tourist visiting these communities produced about 7kg of waste a day, compared to about 2.5kg produced by a local. The issue is not necessarily about travelling less, but about <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211973623000284">travelling more responsibly</a>. The tourism industry needs to be encouraging travel habits that allow both visitors and locals to enjoy tourism without compromising the integrity of the destination. <h2>The rise of slow travel</h2> Mindfulness – being fully present in the moment – has gained popularity since the 1970s. The concept has influenced a number of sectors, including <a href="https://slowfoodauckland.co.nz/">slow food</a>, <a href="https://ourwayoflife.co.nz/slow-fashion-101-what-to-buy-and-what-to-avoid-to-reduce-your-clothing-footprint/">slow fashion</a>, and now <a href="https://www.lakewanaka.co.nz/wanaka-stories/how-to-be-a-slow-mindful-traveler-in-wanaka/">slow travel</a>. It’s about <a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-63569-4_44#:%7E:text=Slow%20travel%2C%20mindful%20travel%2C%20or,spiritual%20well%2Dbeing%20of%20people">experiencing destinations</a> at a relaxed pace, focusing on deeper connections with local cultures and sustainability. This often means <a href="https://guestnewzealand.com/about-us/eco-travels-new-zealand/">staying longer in fewer places</a> and choosing eco-friendly transport. Understanding slow travel and mindfulness is important because they create <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/rogersands/2024/06/08/the-beauty-of-slow-travel/">richer, more memorable experiences</a>. Fast, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0261517724000487">hectic travel</a> often leaves little positive impact. Slow immersive travel, on the other hand, fosters lasting memories and reduces overtourism, pollution and cultural damage. <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00913367.2024.2325144">Research</a> shows when we consciously immerse ourselves in our surroundings we can have more meaningful experiences. Surprisingly, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0261517724000487">even luxury travel</a> – often dismissed as wasteful – can encourage respect and mindfulness for those who invest financially and mentally in their journey, unlike cheaper, mainstream tourism. Activities such as “<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666957921000197">forest bathing</a>”, <a href="https://www.visitutah.com/articles/mindful-hiking">hiking</a> or engaging with <a href="https://www.outofyourcomfortzone.net/a-guide-to-slow-travel-immersing-yourself-in-local-cultures/">local cultures</a> <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6723984/">boost wellbeing and meaning</a>, going beyond just “taking a photo for likes”. This mindful approach can <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160738321001419">change our behaviour on a personal level</a>. By focusing attention on fewer experiences, <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00913367.2024.2325144">travellers can heighten</a> their sense of awe and appreciation, making the travel more memorable. This idea is evident in “<a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/002216786200200102?casa_token=PrIQTkCMjx0AAAAA:wtswfg0cuEuQec0zVg-Mbf9MuXYoqhQkWbaQCGdjxWkYUpVOwBu8Op5jC6V4nOghnow3xpwN3fDn">peak experiences</a>”. Disney, for example, creates <a href="https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/docam/vol9/iss2/6/">emotionally-charged moments</a> that stick in visitors’ minds. Other experiences, such as “<a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/14614448211072808">digital detoxes</a>” or <a href="https://academic.oup.com/jcr/article-abstract/45/6/1142/4999270">pilgrimages</a> can leave a contemplative impression. By concentrating on a single aspect of a visit, it <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160738320300797?casa_token=Np4PXLk5RqsAAAAA:Q3440A-lsf-XTAWuboPPbIcnvBAhk8nnIoWyF-gynHkSPmyPaykzfpBhTLbFDBHZEX0bbtZJgQ">becomes special and memorable</a>. Even in busy places like Disneyland, focusing on one unique element can make the experience feel slower and more meaningful. <h2>The sustainability of tourism</h2> In the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0261517724000487">Faroe Islands</a>, slow travel helps protect local traditions and landscapes by encouraging thoughtful visitor behaviour, such as using local guides to minimise environmental impact. New Zealand can leverage its natural beauty to offer similar immersive experiences. <a href="https://www.nzherald.co.nz/travel/travel-well-what-is-mindful-hiking-walking-for-wellbeing-boost/67MYS6ZSNXC7ZH6OTZ2DLBGFL4/">Tramping</a> (hiking), for example, can promote a mindful connection with the environment. But even here, there needs to be a focus on balancing tourism with preservation. Popular spots, such as the Department of Conservation huts and the Te Araroa Trail, are <a href="https://www.wildernessmag.co.nz/te-araroa-trail-shows-pressure/">already becoming crowded</a>. It is essential to educate visitors on <a href="https://www.mpi.govt.nz/outdoor-activities/tramping-tips-to-prevent-spreading-pests-and-diseases/biosecurity-considerations-walking-and-tramping/">responsible practices</a> – such as cleaning equipment – to ensure they understand their <a href="https://www.doc.govt.nz/heritage-and-visitor-strategy#:%7E:text=The%20natural%2C%20cultural%20and%20historic,wellbeing%2C%20enabling%20communities%20to%20thrive.">role in protecting nature</a>. Travel that fosters a deeper appreciation for local cultures and environments benefits both visitors and the destinations they explore. The challenge is finding the right balance – encouraging meaningful travel experiences while still ensuring accessibility for all.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/238316/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amy-errmann-1360032">Amy Errmann</a>, Senior Lecturer, Marketing & International Business, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/auckland-university-of-technology-1137">Auckland University of Technology</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/crowds-water-guns-and-protests-could-slow-tourism-be-the-answer-to-an-overtourism-backlash-238316">original article</a>. </div>

Travel Trouble

Norway praised for “best tourism commercial” ever

A Norwegian tourism company has been praised after their no nonsense tourism ad for capital city Oslo went viral. <a href="https://www.visitoslo.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Visit Oslo</a> shared their new ad campaign that features local 31-year-old Halfdan, who shares all the noteworthy things about his home city. Opening the video, Halfdan bluntly says, “I wouldn’t come here, to be honest.” He goes on to touch on how easy Oslo is to navigate, the uniqueness of the city, how easy it is to explore and how delicious the food is, with a unique style of delivery. “You can just walk from one side of town to the other in like 30 minutes – try that in New York or Paris,” he says. He visits a museum and adds, “If you don’t have to stand in line for a couple of hours is it even worth seeing?” <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8eYik2q09F/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8eYik2q09F/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Visit OSLO (@visitoslo)</a> </div> </blockquote> Addressing the camera in front of Norwegian artist Edvard Munch’s famous ‘The Scream’, Halfdan deadpanned, saying it is “not exactly the Mona Lisa”. When discussing Oslo’s dining culture, Halfdan complains, “Sometimes I just walk right in off the street and get a table, and I’m not even famous. I mean what does that tell you?” The new ad, which launched in June, was led by director August Jorfald, who believes more tourists want authenticity rather than just taking pictures at iconic landmarks. “I don’t want Disney World. I want to be at someone’s kitchen table and drink wine from a milk glass,” he told BBC. The video, which has racked up hundreds of thousands of views across social media channels, has been praised by many with one person saying the video “Might’ve been the best tourism ad I’ve ever seen.” Another comment described the video as “a masterpiece in reverse psychology”, while others said they had booked their flights to the city after seeing the ad. “I think this is the best tourism commercial I’ve ever seen. And yes, it makes me want to visit Oslo,” read one top comment attracting thousands of likes in support. “Norwegian humour is on another level,” said another. “By far the best bit of marketing I’ve seen in a long while. Give them a raise! Oh wait it’s Norway, they’re already paid properly,” quipped someone else. Image credits: Visit Oslo

International Travel

How overcrowding impacts the world’s tourism hotspots

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/joe-pavelka-1548337">Joe Pavelka</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/mount-royal-university-966">Mount Royal University</a> Every summer, millions of people jet off on vacations around the world. The United Nations World Tourism Organization estimates that international arrivals, the measure of global travel, <a href="https://www.unwto.org/news/international-tourism-to-reach-pre-pandemic-levels-in-2024">will be two per cent higher than the pre-pandemic total was in 2019</a>. However, as more of us are taking vacations, some of the world’s tourism hotspots are feeling more crowded than ever. And that’s even led to protests in some popular destinations. Residents in <a href="https://www.ctvnews.ca/lifestyle/a-point-of-no-return-why-europe-has-become-an-epicentre-for-anti-tourism-protests-this-summer-1.6980308">some European</a> cities have marched through popular areas, calling on tourists to “go home.” Some destinations, like Amsterdam, are doing what was previously thought unthinkable and <a href="https://www.cnn.com/travel/2023-worst-destinations-overtourism-avoid-crowds/index.html">actively discouraging visitors</a>. Tourism crowding has become an indelible feature of travel and it warrants some understanding. So, what is overcrowding in tourism? How do we respond to it? And why does it appear to be increasing? <h2>Tourism overcrowding</h2> At its most basic level, overcrowding occurs because a lot of people decide to go to the same place at the same time. There are three basic principles of <a href="https://theconversation.com/overtourism-a-growing-global-problem-100029">tourism overcrowding</a>. Firstly, overcrowding is real and it creates stress and compromises our experience. Secondly, we feel more crowded in the presence of incompatible behaviours. For instance, we are more likely to feel overcrowded on a sidewalk if we have to avoid a skateboarder, a cyclist and a couple of aggressive vendors than we might at a packed music festival where everyone is acting similarly. Thirdly, a place is overcrowded when we think it is. There is no standard measure of overcrowding for the visitor. It is an individually experienced phenomena. We cannot understand tourism crowding without taking into account the context of local residents. We recently learned of <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/08/travel/barcelona-tourism-protests-scli-intl/index.html">locals spraying tourists in Barcelona with water guns</a> as part of a demonstration. Locals do not do that unless they are truly fed up. This brings us to what I call the host-guest covenant, which is the idea that visitors should keep to touristic areas so residents can maintain the sanctity of their neighbourhoods. With the rise of short-term rentals, many visitors are able to go beyond the touristic parts of town. Some visitors might feel that, by sticking to touristic areas, their trip remains superficial and undeserving of the time and money it costs. Short-term rentals can allow them to avoid other tourists and gain a more “authentic” experience. However, <a href="https://upgo.lab.mcgill.ca/publication/strs-housing-bc-2022/Wachsmuth_BC_2022.pdf">it can make things worse for residents</a>, who must contend with more tourists encroaching on their neighbourhoods. <h2>How people cope with overcrowding</h2> Some people detest crowds, while others are drawn to them. There are <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/01490400306562">four basic ways people cope with the stress of overcrowding</a>. The first way is to alter travel plans to avoid crowds. It’s the most common coping method and involves avoiding certain places when we know their going to be busy. Another method is rationalization. When people find themselves in tourist crowds, they often rationalize the situation to avoid cognitive dissonance. For instance, visitors to the Louvre Museum might be more willing to tolerate crowds because they expect everyone wants to see the Mona Lisa. It implies people knowingly enter overcrowded tourist spaces. And they do, for several reasons: the attraction, fear of missing out, because crowds offer a sense of safety, and the validation that they’re somewhere important. Rationalization explains why we see thousands of people in the same place at the same time. A third coping method is product shift. It suggests we will intentionally downgrade a product to avoid cognitive dissonance. When someone tells you that Tofino used to be a quaint little surf town and now it’s touristy, they are engaging in product shift. The fourth is direct action, which involves contacting the authorities to rectify a situation. It can be as simple as asking a museum official to quiet down a noisy group or posting a review of Niagara Falls suggesting more information on how to avoid crowds. Coping methods are similar for visitors and the residents of the places they visit, but the latter places more emphasis on displacement. They have a deeper knowledge of the place and ability to navigate crowds effectively. <h2>Social media’s impact</h2> Some argue tourism took a <a href="https://www.cnn.com/travel/social-media-tourism-effect-scn-wellness/index.html">sharp turn for the worse</a> with the advent of social media. Maybe, but the real impact of social media is that it made travel into a more visible status symbol. Prior to social media, returning travellers would print out their photos and share them with family and friends. Today we can share our photos instantly online. In addition, a desire to have the <a href="https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/instagrammable">most “Instagrammable” experiences</a> encourages risk avoidance. In essence, it encourages us to stick to the tried-and-true tours, destinations and attractions, rather than off-the-beaten-path places. This reinforces the basic principle of overcrowding: a lot people deciding to go the same place at the same time. Given all these trends, it is expected that most post-pandemic travel will continue to be trips to “safer” destinations <a href="https://www.unwto.org/news/international-tourism-to-reach-pre-pandemic-levels-in-2024">where tourists feel they are more likely to get their money’s worth</a>. In other words, the Global North travellers going to places in the Global North they feel will be worthwhile experiences. All tourists want to have a good time when on holiday. That often means the wisdom of crowds still holds sway, and no matter how uncomfortable overcrowding might be, thousands of people going the same place at the same time feels less risky than being on your own.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/235319/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/joe-pavelka-1548337">Joe Pavelka</a>, Professor, Department of Health and Physical Education, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/mount-royal-university-966">Mount Royal University</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-overcrowding-impacts-the-worlds-tourism-hotspots-235319">original article</a>. </div>

Travel Trouble

It’s tax time and scammers are targeting your myGov account. Here’s how to stay safe

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/cassandra-cross-122865">Cassandra Cross</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847">Queensland University of Technology</a> For many, tax time is an exciting part of the year – there’s the potential for a refund. However, it’s also an attractive time for fraudsters looking for ways to get money and deceive unsuspecting victims. Each year Australians lose large amounts of money to scams. In 2023, Australians reported <a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/scam-losses-decline-but-more-work-to-do-as-australians-lose-27-billion">losses of more than A$2.7 billion</a>. While this is a slight reduction from the $3.1 billion in 2022, there are still millions of victims who’ve suffered at the hands of scammers. Impersonation scams are one common approach. Scamwatch reports that in 2023, <a href="https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/news-alerts/shopping-for-online-bargains-this-black-friday-weekend-make-sure-its-the-real-deal">70% of reports to them</a> involved impersonation. A large number of these were linked to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and myGov. <h2>What is an impersonation scam?</h2> Impersonation scams are what they sound like: when an offender pretends to be someone or something they are not. Offenders may pretend to be family members or friends in our contact lists. In many cases, they will say they’re from an organisation such as a bank or a well-known retailer, or a government department – like the ATO. Offenders take on the identity of a known and trusted organisation to increase the chances of success. While we may ignore communications from unknown entities and strangers, we’re more likely to engage with what’s familiar. Additionally, the ATO has a powerful status as a government agency, and we are unlikely to ignore its messages – especially at tax time. <h2>What are they trying to get out of my myGov account?</h2> myGov is the gateway to a range of government services, including Medicare, Centrelink, My Health Record, the National Disability Insurance Scheme, and of course, the ATO. Being able to log in to myGov gives offenders access to a wide range of your personal details. This can help them build a fuller profile of you to potentially commit identity theft (such as opening new accounts in your name). There’s also the potential for direct fraud. With access to myGov, offenders can change your bank account details and redirect any refunds into their accounts, whether from the ATO or other linked services. They can even submit false tax returns, medical claims or other forms to obtain fraudulent funds. As the legitimate owner of the account, you may not immediately notice this. <h2>What does a myGov scam look like?</h2> In most instances, a myGov scam will look like one of the many phishing attempts we all receive on a daily basis. While each approach can be worded differently, their desired outcome is the same: to acquire your personal information. Fraudsters are sending text messages and emails pretending to be from the ATO, advising you there’s a refund available if you click the provided link. Another approach is to flag a “problem” with your tax return or bank account, and direct you to take immediate action via a link. Creating a sense of urgency can trick users into acting in the moment, without thinking through the request. The text or email may also be very neutral, simply stating there’s a new message waiting – with a link to where you can read it. Regardless of what the message says, the goal is to direct you to a website that looks genuine, but is fake. If you enter your myGov details into such a fake site, the offender can capture your login details and use them to log into your actual myGov account. <h2>What to do if you’ve been a victim?</h2> If you have clicked on a scam link and provided your personal details, there are steps you can take. Change your password and review your account settings if you still have access to your myGov account. Check your bank accounts, to see what, if anything, has been lost. Contact your bank or financial institution immediately if you notice any withdrawals or suspicious transactions. Contact any other organisation linked to your myGov account to see if any unauthorised actions have been taken. For anyone who has lost personal information and experienced identity crime, <a href="https://www.idcare.org/">IDCARE is the national support centre</a> for identity crime victims. They will be able to assist with a personalised response plan to your specific situation. <h2>How do I keep my account safe?</h2> Never click on links in text messages or emails that direct you to log in to your accounts. Always access your accounts independently, through details you have found independently of any text or email. Review your security settings. There have been recent reports of people’s myGov accounts being targeted <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/article/2024/aug/01/ato-mygov-tax-return-refund-scam">with repeated login attempts</a>. Using your unique eight-digit myGov username for logging in can be safer than <a href="https://my.gov.au/en/about/help/mygov-website/help-using-your-account/manage-sign-in-details#updatingyourusername">using your email address</a>. Enable <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-is-multi-factor-authentication-and-how-should-i-be-using-it-191591">multi-factor authentication</a> where possible. myGov uses two-factor authentication in the form of a text message in addition to an online login. While this is not foolproof, it offers an additional layer of protection and can stop offenders accessing your account with only partial pieces of your information. Be vigilant on all communications. Always keep in mind that all may not be what it seems and the person you are communicating with may not be who they say they are. It is okay to be sceptical and do your own checks to verify details of what is presented to you. Remember, fraudsters thrive on the silence and shame of those who respond or fall victim to their scams. We need to communicate openly about these schemes and talk to family and friends, to increase everyone’s knowledge and awareness.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/235785/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/cassandra-cross-122865">Cassandra Cross</a>, Associate Dean (Learning & Teaching) Faculty of Creative Industries, Education and Social Justice, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847">Queensland University of Technology</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/its-tax-time-and-scammers-are-targeting-your-mygov-account-heres-how-to-stay-safe-235785">original article</a>. </div>

Money & Banking

Holiday protesters are missing the big picture – there are ways to make tourism work for everyone

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/brendan-canavan-228682">Brendan Canavan</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-nottingham-1192">University of Nottingham</a> As tourists sip their drinks at sunny pavement cafes this summer, they may feel slight unease that perhaps their presence isn’t entirely welcome. This season has seen a <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/videos/c0dm9w2ey7po">renewed wave of major protests</a> against tourists for pushing out residents and homogenising culture in popular destinations. Anti-tourist placards and gatherings have appeared in <a href="https://www.portugalresident.com/sintra-residents-finally-say-enough-to-mass-tourism-traffic-chaos/">Portugal</a>, <a href="https://uk.news.yahoo.com/greek-city-begs-no-more-095204268.html">Athens</a>, <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/07/22/travel/mass-protest-on-spanish-island-mallorca-calls-for-limits-on-tourism/index.html">Mallorca</a> and <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/thousands-protest-spains-canary-islands-over-mass-tourism-2024-04-20/">Tenerife</a>. Tourists have even been sprayed with <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/business/travel/barcelona-protesters-throw-items-spray-travelers-water-shouting-touris-rcna160883">water pistols</a> by angry inhabitants of Barcelona. Anti-tourism protests are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2017/aug/10/anti-tourism-marches-spread-across-europe-venice-barcelona">not new</a>, and they do not always share the same <a href="https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/IJTC-09-2022-0211/full/html#sec014">motivations</a>. But one <a href="https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/IJTC-09-2022-0211/full/html#sec014">common grievance</a> is that local economies are not improved by tourism, while the social costs of hosting mount. But are these anti-tourism sentiments justified? Tourism contributes around <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/00472875211028322">5% of EU economic activity</a>, supporting jobs and businesses both directly and indirectly. Without tourism many places would be economically poorer. But protesters in <a href="https://news.sky.com/story/your-paradise-our-nightmare-thousands-attend-anti-tourism-protest-in-majorca-13183160">Mallorca</a> have argued that tourists take up space on beaches, put a strain on public services and drive the cost of housing above a level that residents can afford. The economic pros and cons of tourism suggest the protesters have a point. But they are also missing the bigger picture. An estimated <a href="https://studytravel.network/magazine/news/0/30772#:%7E:text=Globally%2C%20there%20were%201.3%20billion,data%20quoted%20in%20the%20report.">1.3 billion</a> international tourist trips took place in 2023. These tourists spent over <a href="https://x.com/UNWTO/status/1796821487971905590">US$1.5 trillion</a> (£1.2 trillion) on their trips. For comparison, that is roughly the size of the Spanish economy. If tourism were a nation, it would be a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_GDP_(nominal)">G20 member</a>. What’s more, because international travellers earn money in their home country and spend it in another, international tourism is counted as an export. In 2022 international tourists spent almost <a href="https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/urban-rural-and-regional-development/data/oecd-tourism-statistics/receipts-and-expenditure_c4170878-en?parentId=http%3A%2F%2Finstance.metastore.ingenta.com%2Fcontent%2Fcollection%2F2b45a380-en">€370 billion</a> (£312 billion) in the 27 EU countries, for example. This export income helps to balance the cost of imports and pay for things such as food and fuel not available locally. Nonetheless, there remains a concern that such economic inputs come at too high a cost. In January the then head of Florence’s Galleria dell’Accademia controversially criticised how the city had <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/01/30/travel/italy-florence-prostitute-tourism-intl-scli/index.html">sold its soul</a> to tourists. But <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/00472875231203395">tourism revenues</a> help provide foreign exchange earnings, create jobs, encourage infrastructure investments and boost tax revenues. In turn these inputs promote economic development and increase welfare, as well as reduce <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ImtQ9YQS7UrYJ_PItcgeFhFUidcxTwkC/view">income inequality</a>. Globally, the tourism industry is a significant source of employment. In 2019, prior to the pandemic, travel and tourism accounted for <a href="https://wttc.org/research/economic-impact">10.5%</a> of all jobs. In some <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/08/destinations-rely-most-on-tourism-travel/">Caribbean islands</a> more than 90% of all jobs are in the tourism sector. Crossover benefits of hosting tourists are felt in other industries too. <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/00472875231203395">Food and drink</a> producers sell their products to tourists, for example, and <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/13/13/7164">farmers</a> can diversify their incomes by offering tourist experiences such as wine-tasting tours. Tourism generates a large amount of economic activity, therefore. But research shows that the income that remains in a destination is often limited by <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Cristina-Joensson/publication/293487803_Economic_leakages_in_tourism/links/56b8f33608ae3b658a88b7a4/Economic-leakages-in-tourism.pdf">leakage rates</a>. There are estimates that for every US$1 million spent by tourists in the Seychelles, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160738315000468?casa_token=-hjGHa9NHPMAAAAA:irVmwVrFbZvnTNzDPKcE90_dK4mwuwVBIkO4_nPs34IdGM12w9i4r8GCR_1K_0IIrJznxx2b">less than half</a> of this stays in the local economy. This income can <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1470-6431.2007.00606.x?casa_token=bentpmB1dE8AAAAA%3A72smahI3xNJB2Y7_PDj-lcZG6nmW7fqPgOv59G4Dr-DBfzWfxjtxRU9qytrdpOWmaLom6oe6dM_U0oA">leak out</a> from the destination because of imports such as food and fuel that are not available locally. Leakage also occurs when tourist facilities are foreign owned. <figure><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/S-p-YGNXEnY?wmode=transparent&start=0" width="440" height="260" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></figure> There are undoubtedly <a href="https://www.euronews.com/travel/2024/07/08/fake-signs-and-hunger-strikes-whats-behind-europes-backlash-against-overtourism">downsides</a> to tourism development. The influx of people into popular destinations can add to issues of crowding in public services and shared spaces. Tourism is also often accused of causing urgent economic problems, such as forcing up the cost of housing for locals. But these are often driven by more complex and alternative factors. Research in <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/0042098020970865">London</a>, a city facing an extreme problem of supply scarcity and growing numbers of <a href="https://theconversation.com/surging-property-prices-when-will-europes-cities-become-affordable-again-230256">“generation rent”</a>, found that Airbnb plays a relatively insignificant part in increasing housing costs. A study in <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/13683500.2019.1711027?casa_token=YYKyikeJrXYAAAAA:ktQVCuNoseTdiAC89hl98rdclxE7I68CqkYW6xHUFkzH_TLfabdFOuNfKDQiiIzkOdag7cuQTrho">South Carolina</a> in the US meanwhile showed that short-term holiday rentals can boost hospitality micro-entrepreneurs and help residents to maximise the economic potential of their homes by renting out spare rooms. <h2>What can tourists do?</h2> Ultimately, what unites many anti-tourism protesters is a <a href="https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20240522-the-worlds-revolt-against-bad-tourists">demand for respect</a>. Indeed, <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/10941665.2020.1768129?casa_token=4DR7vsQpGtcAAAAA:0QIzenTi9LAaVNH8w0JkT46D5_okuotUR5C-wP2NyxxT5bC0UiG2gMBfLHt5G3rveVre7gu8kEIB">research</a> has shown that over-tourism is not merely an issue of overcrowding, but a long-term issue resulting from inappropriate treatment of residents in the process of tourism development. Tourists can demonstrate that they respect hosts and help to alleviate anti-tourism feelings by finding ways to ensure their holiday is as economically beneficial to the destination as possible. <ul> <li> Spending money at smaller-scale and locally owned businesses puts more money into the local economy. Large multinationals can out-compete local businesses and worsen <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ImtQ9YQS7UrYJ_PItcgeFhFUidcxTwkC/view">economic inequality</a>. <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/1354816616654244?casa_token=YQU0aoDhdP8AAAAA:bX_7TEc0S4zhkl2eduKZqitorJKlbRMMSnaJAZJBPCm8bAk-uQMI518KvZX09oI0iLs13NULXYoX">Foreign-owned businesses</a> typically increase leakage rates as they send profits back to their headquarters. </li> <li> Choosing more sustainable operators, services and destinations tends to bring economic positives. In <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1354816616664249?casa_token=vr7pQyvIVAgAAAAA%3ATLHqmXTyGeHpmL8j9K2cNjb4doB4w_0CNH0IspadKHEPSt5PsFLWVngRQsj81tvE3vIJMpPWGm31&journalCode=teua">Mauritius</a>, for instance, the government has invested in sustainable tourism planning, enhancing economic growth and bringing benefits for residents. </li> <li> Visiting places that are less typically touristic spreads economic advantages around. In Scotland, nature tourism supports around <a href="https://www.nature.scot/professional-advice/social-and-economic-benefits-nature/tourism">39,000 full-time jobs</a>. </li> </ul> It can be easy to scapegoat tourists and tourism for deeper-seated economic problems. Tourists are a highly visible, and frequently very annoying, presence. But without them destinations would be poorer, while persistent economic problems would likely remain. Challenging governments, policy-makers, corporations or institutions might be a better use of protesters’ energy.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/235614/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/brendan-canavan-228682">Brendan Canavan</a>, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-nottingham-1192">University of Nottingham</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/holiday-protesters-are-missing-the-big-picture-there-are-ways-to-make-tourism-work-for-everyone-235614">original article</a>. </div>

Travel Trouble

It may be macabre, but dark tourism helps us learn from the worst of human history

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/dr-neil-robinson-1312179">Dr Neil Robinson</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-salford-878">University of Salford</a> Dark tourism has become a much more well-covered pasttime in recent years, in which a macabre fascination lead tourists to travel to various places not served by Thomas Cook: the sites of battles and genocides, war cemeteries, prisons, and even <a href="http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2014/07/the-rise-of-dark-tourism/374432/">current warzones such as Syria</a>. The 20th century alone has provided such a <a href="http://www.therichest.com/expensive-lifestyle/location/10-great-places-to-visit-for-dark-tourism/">long list of places</a> at which catastrophes or great loss of life and suffering has occurred. Sites visited range from the spot from which JFK was assassinated, to prisons such as Alcatraz in San Francisco, through to battlefields of the World Wars, or the vestiges of genocides such at Auschwitz in Poland or Tuol Sleng in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It’s not everybody’s cup of tea, but we shouldn’t condemn those for whom this is an interest. Dark tourism appears to be a manifestation of our media-rich society through which information found online may persuade us to see historical sites in person. But its origins can be traced back much further than the fascination with death and disasters of the 19th and 20th century. In the 11th century, people and pilgrims often visited places with religious significance such as Jerusalem, where the location of Christ’s crucifixion is a popular attraction; tourists visited Gettysburg, the site of the bloodiest battle of the American Civil War in 1863; and in more recent centuries, the Grand Tour offered an opportunity for the wealthy to experience Europe, with sites such as the classical ruins of the Colosseum in Rome – which in the name of entertainment saw execution, torture and death – one of the must-see attractions. Today, in parallel with the growth in popularity of dark tourism is the enormous growth of social media and the 24-hour news economy. The ease of access to such blanket coverage through the web, Facebook and Twitter has increased people’s awareness of, and fascination for, these historical sites of war, conflict and catastrophe. For example, the last decade has brought a surge in visitor numbers to <a href="https://theconversation.com/from-fiction-to-gallows-humour-how-chernobyl-survivors-are-still-coping-with-trauma-57923">Chernobyl</a>, where guides take visitors around the abandoned city of Pripyat (radiation levels permitting) which has been deserted since the nuclear power plant explosion on April 26, 1986. The 30th anniversary this year has in itself <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-3526271/Chernobyl-tourists-pose-photos-eerie-sites.html">added to interest in visiting</a> the overgrown and crumbling city. As with tourism of any kind, this greater footfall brings benefits. In this case, not just the economic boost but also as a tool of education and even conflict resolution. For example, the <a href="http://www.belfasttours.com/package/belfast-political-mural-tour">taxi tours of Belfast’s murals</a>, which document Northern Ireland’s Troubles, offer visitors a way to understand the history and provide the communities involved a means to reflect and move on from the conflict. This model is <a href="http://www.h-net.org/reviews/showpdf.php?id=25852">viewed with interest</a> and hope by moderates on both sides of the Arab-Israeli divide searching for a peaceful solution for the long term. The tours of <a href="http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/916">Robin Island prison</a> in South Africa, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years incarcerated among many others, starkly present how those imprisoned by a corrupt and discriminatory political regime can later engage in peace and reconciliation. The <a href="http://www.bruisedpassports.com/africa/5-reasons-you-must-go-for-a-township-tour-in-south-africa">Soweto township tours</a> in Johannesburg have acted in part as a means through which generations of South Africans can better understand their country’s dark past and help to establish truth and reconciliation for the future. Dark tourism should not in my opinion by viewed as unethical, repugnant or even a self-indulgent activity. Certainly some dark tourists may engage in their pursuits for all the wrong reasons, seeing death and destruction as a commodity to be consumed with little thought for those who caught up in its wake. But others visit such sites to pay their respects, to better understand the magnitude of death and destruction, and to inform the outside world of the details of terrible events – even in some case offering to help. These are positive effects that may come from so much pain and suffering. We should strive to better understand the origins of the terrible events of human history to be more able to prevent us repeating them. In this regard, that more people visit sites associated with dark tourism and learn about them should be seen as a positive.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/60966/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/dr-neil-robinson-1312179">Dr Neil Robinson</a>, Lecturer in Business, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-salford-878">University of Salford</a> Image credits: Shutterstock This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/it-may-be-macabre-but-dark-tourism-helps-us-learn-from-the-worst-of-human-history-60966">original article</a>. </div>

Travel Trouble

7 health investments that are tax deductible

When someone says “investment”, we tend to think of money and wealth creation: property, shares, superannuation, savings accounts and so on. However, an investment is the contribution of something you value towards the anticipation of growing that value. That contribution could be money or it could be in the form of time, skills, knowledge, or labour. Similarly, the anticipated growth in value could be in monetary terms or towards growth in business, education, research, or even health – both your own and others’. Just like money matters and tax affairs require a wholistic view, so too does health. Which is why when it comes to getting the most out of health investments, it’s crucial to consider physical, mental and financial health. Many, such as those listed below, happen to be tax deductible too: <ol> <li>Safety equipment and education</li> </ol> Workplace safety is perhaps the most crucial of all health investments. What form that takes can differ enormously between professions. Yet if it is important for doing your job safely, then generally it will be tax deductible. This may be protective clothing for tradespeople, medical workers, and industrial machinists, or advanced driving/road safety training courses for taxi drivers and couriers. Sun protection for jobs that take place largely or exclusively outdoors is also generally deductible – but use those sunglasses or sunscreen at home as well, and you’ll only be able to claim the work-related portion of the cost. <ol start="2"> <li>Insurances</li> </ol> Certain insurance premiums are typically tax deductible. Professional indemnity insurance is a legitimate (and often essential) business expense in many jobs, such as for doctors and journalists. Income protection insurance against severe illness or injury may also be deductible. Plus, having private health insurance also delivers a tax benefit when lodging your tax return. <ol start="3"> <li>Professional coaching</li> </ol> Professional coaching can be useful for mental health and clarity, both over existing work situations and career progression or transition planning. Provided this coaching is strictly professional and relates to your ability to earn an income, it may be tax deductible. <ol start="4"> <li>Accounting and financial advice </li> </ol> Good financial health goes hand in hand with good advice about money matters. Most Aussies know that the cost of managing their tax affairs is deductible. Less well known, though, is that financial advice expenses are also generally deductible. Busy accountants can forget to ask if you incurred these costs when going through your expenses at tax time, so be sure to flag it with them. <ol start="5"> <li>Industry-specific deductions</li> </ol> In some instances, health-related expenses may be tax deductible because they are required within a particular job. For instance, models, athletes and fitness instructors may be able to claim gym memberships and nutritionist visits; dieticians and chefs may be able to claim healthy eating books and subscriptions. Check the <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/income-deductions-offsets-and-records/deductions-you-can-claim/occupation-and-industry-specific-guides">ATO’s Occupation and industry-specific guides</a> to see relevant deductions in your line of work. <ol start="6"> <li>Medical checks</li> </ol> If you require compulsory medical assessments and check-ups as part of your job, these may be tax deductible. Examples include health screenings for pilots, miners, and emergency workers. COVID-19 tests to determine whether you can attend your workplace may also be deductible. Vaccinations, however, are deemed by the ATO to be private expenses. <ol start="7"> <li>Donations</li> </ol> Many health organisations are registered charities and not-for-profits, making donations to them deductible. Often, people donate to health charities because of personal experience, either as a patient/survivor themselves or having known someone who was. So not only are you investing in critical research and future patient support as a means of giving back, but you can also claim a tax deduction as a reward for donations over $2. Proof of purchase is key For any expense to be tax deductible, it must be necessary for work purposes and have come out of your own pocket, not been paid for or reimbursed by your employer. Don’t forget to claim depreciation of work-related equipment over subsequent years. These are extra dollars in your pocket to offset the cost of their eventual replacement. And be sure to keep copies of receipts for your purchases to prove your expenses – both now and in the future. Helen Baker is a licensed Australian financial adviser and author of On Your Own Two Feet: The Essential Guide to Financial Independence for all Women. Helen is among the 1% of financial planners who hold a master’s degree in the field. Proceeds from book sales are donated to charities supporting disadvantaged women and children. Find out more at <a href="http://www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au/">www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au</a> Disclaimer: The information in this article is of a general nature only and does not constitute personal financial or product advice. Any opinions or views expressed are those of the authors and do not represent those of people, institutions or organisations the owner may be associated with in a professional or personal capacity unless explicitly stated. Helen Baker is an authorised representative of BPW Partners Pty Ltd AFSL 548754. Image credits: Shutterstock

Money & Banking

10 ways to make those stage 3 tax cuts count

You’re already used to living without these extra dollars. So, you won’t miss them by continuing to do so. Consider the various options available and which best suits your circumstances, then devise a plan of action to put that money to work. <ol> <li>Check tax brackets</li> </ol> Not only are some income tax rates falling, but the thresholds for others are increasing - potentially pushing you into a lower tax bracket. For example, Alice currently earns $130,000 and this tips her into marginal tax rate of 37 per cent. The Stage 3 changes will increase the 37 per cent tax threshold to $135,001. As such, Alice drops to a lower tax bracket. Not only this, her new tax bracket will have its marginal tax rate reduced from 32.5 per cent to 30 per cent. It’s a double win for Alice! This shouldn’t change your money habits but is still good to know. <ol start="2"> <li>Update your plan</li> </ol> Check <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/about-ato/new-legislation/in-detail/individuals/individual-income-tax-rates-and-threshold-changes">what your new tax rate will be</a> to calculate your new take-home pay (or simply look at your first full pay cycle in the new financial year). Plot your new income into your household spending and investment plan. Now you know what you have to play with. <ol start="3"> <li>Check your pay</li> </ol> Most employers use digital payroll systems which automatically update tax rates. But not all do. And even then, mistakes can happen. From July, double check that your pay is adjusted correctly. If you notice a mistake, speak up – not only will you and your colleagues benefit, but you could save your employer from costly penalties for an innocent mistake. <ol start="4"> <li>Monitor expenses</li> </ol> Don’t let ballooning expenses wipe out any tax cut gains. Avoid pre-spending those gains too. The additional income is spaced out over each pay; it’s not a lump sum you can blow on a spending spree. <ol start="5"> <li>Automatic redirects</li> </ol> Consider setting up an automated redirect of the difference in your pay as soon as it hits your account. The money could be diverted into a high-interest savings account or used to top up your emergency fund. <ol start="6"> <li>Super contributions</li> </ol> Tax cut cash can be used in combination with super contribution rules to supercharge retirement earnings. Low income earners may be eligible for <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/super-for-individuals-and-families/super/growing-and-keeping-track-of-your-super/how-to-save-more-in-your-super/government-super-contributions/super-co-contribution">government co-contributions</a> while <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/super-for-individuals-and-families/super/growing-and-keeping-track-of-your-super/how-to-save-more-in-your-super/spouse-super-contributions">spouse contributions</a> can offer further tax benefits. This may be particularly useful for anyone <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/super-for-individuals-and-families/super/growing-and-keeping-track-of-your-super/caps-limits-and-tax-on-super-contributions/concessional-contributions-cap#ato-Carryforwardunusedcontributioncapamounts">trying to catch-up</a> after time out of the workforce (e.g., raising kids or caring for relatives) or repaying <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/about-ato/research-and-statistics/in-detail/super-statistics/early-release/covid-19-early-release-of-super">early withdrawals during COVID</a>. <ol start="7"> <li>Pay down debt</li> </ol> Every extra dollar spent paying off debt will save on future interest and clear it faster. Prioritise higher interest debts (like credit cards). Consider consolidating multiple debts into one with a lower rate (e.g., your mortgage) to reduce total interest and simplify repayments. <ol start="8"> <li>Invest in yourself</li> </ol> The old saying goes “you’ve got to spend money to make money”. Nowhere are the returns typically better than from self improvement. That could be undertaking new qualifications or additional training, enabling you to secure pay rises or transition to a higher-paying industry. Or it may be investing in your health and wellbeing, to reduce medical expenses, improve job prospects and productivity, and enhance your decision-making abilities (including about money matters). <ol start="9"> <li>Lodge returns promptly</li> </ol> This applies to every tax year: the sooner you lodge your tax return, the sooner you access your tax refund. Even if you’re facing a tax bill, getting it done sooner means less interest accruing and no late payment penalties. <ol start="10"> <li>Revisit strategies</li> </ol> While making changes to incorporate these tax cuts, take the opportunity to re-evaluate your overall finances. Revisit investment strategies to ensure they are delivering optimal returns. Check superannuation thresholds and performance. Scrutinise total tax liabilities (for instance, lower tax rates may mean you won’t qualify for the same level of tax deductions). Make updates where necessary. Keeping on top of your finances will mean better bang for your buck now while streamlining your affairs in future years. Helen Baker is a licensed Australian financial adviser and author of On Your Own Two Feet: The Essential Guide to Financial Independence for all Women. Helen is among the 1% of financial planners who hold a master’s degree in the field. Proceeds from book sales are donated to charities supporting disadvantaged women and children. Find out more at <a href="http://www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au/">www.onyourowntwofeet.com.au</a> Disclaimer: The information in this article is of a general nature only and does not constitute personal financial or product advice. Any opinions or views expressed are those of the authors and do not represent those of people, institutions or organisations the owner may be associated with in a professional or personal capacity unless explicitly stated. Helen Baker is an authorised representative of BPW Partners Pty Ltd AFSL 548754. Image credits: Shutterstock

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