Unlike other disasters—the global financial crisis, or SARS, which affected some communities—the effects of this year’s crises have been felt, in one way or another, by all. One Australian working to overcome these challenges and help our lives return to some sense of ‘normal’ is Grammar Woman, Margy Osmond (Kelaher, 1977).
As Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF), the peak national industry association for the tourism, aviation and transport sectors, Margy’s role ordinarily involves promoting the public policy interests of leading institutions in these sectors. Instead, a ‘typical’ day for Margy now involves co-chairing the tourism group of the Australian and New Zealand Leadership Forum (responsible for establishing a possible trans-Tasman ‘travel bubble’), media appearances to promote tourism in Australia, and meetings with Airport CEOs to support the resumption of domestic air travel. It’s fair to say Ms Osmond’s role has never been so demanding.
‘People ask, “How can you be so busy when the tourism industry is dead?”, but I’ve never been as busy as I have over the past six months. Protecting Australia’s tourism and ensuring it receives the critical attention it needs has never been more important.
‘Right now, we’re doing more with less and people are motivated to continue because they know we’re making a difference.’
And like so many organisations around the world, Margy and her team have adapted to the challenges necessitated by COVID-19.
‘It can be said that disaster focuses attention. I’d never wish this experience on anyone again but it’s important we do not waste this opportunity to implement reforms and achieve long-term outcomes. Innovate or die could not be truer for businesses right now. There are always positives to come out of crises and while it may be too early to know for certain what these may be, we will do everything we can to learn from this experience.’
Prior to joining TTF in 2014, Margy was CEO of the Australian National Retailers Association. Her expertise in this area allows her to make informed predictions on what the tourism and retail sectors may look like in the future.
‘People’s behaviours have changed and so too has consumer sentiment. What government thinks people will do after this is over, may be different to what they will actually do—it all depends on discretionary spend.
‘We will visit our “near and dear” first but with overseas travel no longer an option, I urge people to rewrite their bucket lists and look within Australia for a unique experience. Go to Kakadu or any of the amazing indigenous offerings around Australia. If you can, or when you can, go on a holiday! It’s the best thing for our industry and the economy right now.’
Despite the ongoing challenges and current state of the tourism industry, Margy also says those who were intending to seek work in the sector after school should not be discouraged.
‘My advice for Grammar girls and women is not to be put off from entering the tourism industry. There are misconceptions about the types of jobs in our industry but the truth is, this is a highly professional and sophisticated industry with rewarding jobs across the sector.’
‘I remain optimistic of what the future holds for Australian tourism and I’m proud of the work I am accomplishing in this moment of history.’
Margy Osmond (Kelaher, 1977)
