Reason For Optimism
From the CEO ANNA MOELLER
A US president once said “the price of freedom is eternal vigilance” – and this rings true for our sector. While we are going through a relatively settled period post COVID, there is no room for complacency. As our President, David Basheer, says in his column (see previous pages), there are many issues we work on very publicly for the benefit of members. That is only part of the story. Behind the scenes, the AHA|SA works even harder on issues we want to keep out of the headlines. However, as we enter the busy Christmas trading period, the current outlook is largely favourable. We are approaching 2024 with an “opportunity mindset”. Many venues are making a steady recovery from COVID – but State and Federal decision makers also need to remember that our industry suffered losses during that period and most operators are still playing “catch up”. Another positive aspect to note is that the introduction of major events to the state is providing much needed sugar hits to industry. LIV
“Notwithstanding growing wages and full employment, cost of living is going up, inflationary pressures remain, and that has a pinch.” Golf, Gather Round, Rugby and of course the Matildas added to pre-existing events such as the Fringe, Festival, WOMADelaide and the cricket. This increased activity is wonderful for our food and beverage offering. It also strengthens our accommodation sector, which is particularly important for the CBD hotel scene that has seen significant development and increased available bed nights. At the same time it has been pleasing to see that South Australians are continuing to visit the back yard they discovered during border closures. Regional accommodation and pubs, particularly those with a destination experience, are continuing to reap the rewards.
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Gaming has also experienced a strong rebound with a significant upgrade of the EGM fleet off the back of the introduction of ticket in ticket out and bank note acceptor technologies. We close out the year with gaming revenue plateauing at a new high. I look forward to identifying and embracing new opportunities together with industry in 2024. I know that this will not be without its challenges. Ongoing skills shortages, scarcity of accommodation and the cost of living being just some. But we should be proud to be part of a state that is now seeing yearon-year growth, stimulation in reinvestment and venue sales and a renewed optimism throughout the industry. Back to Contents
