· New Sheraton Melbourne Hotel creates approximately 250 jobs
· Victoria’s tourism industry worth $19.6 billion a year and provides 200,000 jobs
· 2020 Tourism Strategy aims to increase tourism’s GSP contribution to $34 billion

The official opening of the new Sheraton Melbourne Hotel will create approximately 250 jobs and help boost tourism in Victoria, Premier Denis Napthine said.

Speaking at the official opening of the new Sheraton Hotel last night, Dr Napthine said Melbourne’s newest hotel would add to Melbourne’s reputation as a premier tourist destination and leading business centre.

“It’s fantastic to see the Sheraton name return to Melbourne after a nine-year absence,” Dr Napthine said.

“The Sheraton Hotel’s new location at the ‘Paris end’ of Little Collin Street is in close proximity to some of Melbourne’s finest restaurants and some of the city’s premier attractions.

“This new hotel will not only be a major drawcard for tourists who are visiting Victoria for one of our world-renowned major events, but also for business with the facility also featuring a floor for conference and convention facilities capable of hosting more than 200 people,” Dr Napthine said.

Melbourne’s popularity as a destination for international tourists is increasing, due to its extensive major events calendar and reputation as the world’s most liveable city.

Last year, international overnight visitors to Victoria increased by 8 per cent to 1.93 million.

“The Victorian tourism industry is worth $19.6 billion a year and provides jobs for more than 200,000 Victorians,” Dr Napthine said.

“The Coalition Government’s 2020 Tourism Strategy aims to grow tourism’s contribution to Victoria’s Gross State Product to approximately $34 billion by 2020.

“Through strategies such as this, we’re building a better Victoria by strengthening the economy and creating more jobs for Victorians.”