Scott Morrison pleads for travellers to cut tourist operators a break

Scott Morrison has called on tourists to keep coming to Australia — and to cut providers some slack if they want a refund.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison visits the Defence Staging Ground at Kingscote Aiport on Kangaroo Island, southwest of Adelaide, today. Picture: AAP

Scott Morrison has issued a plea to tourists to keep coming to Australia — and to cut the bushfire-affected tourism sector some slack if they want a refund.

The Prime Minister has also announced disaster relief payments will not be taxed, ensuring bushfire victims get the full amount.

After speaking to tourism operators devastated by the Kangaroo Island bushfire, Mr Morrison issued a direct plea today to tourists in Australia and overseas.

“If you’ve booked accommodation and you’re now seeking a refund, can you cut them a break in terms of, at the very least, on the timing of when you might expect to see a refund?” he said.

“These businesses have been hit very hard and their cash flows are not going to be in a position where they’re going to be able to meet every request.”

He said even on Kangaroo Island, where one third of the island had been burnt, two-thirds were still open for business.

Visiting the island today, Mr Morrison also called on anyone who wanted to help or donate to bushfire relief efforts to just send cash.

“I want to thank Australians for their incredible generosity, for the donations and the other offers of support. But I would make this one plea … from this point on we would be

encouraging you to provide your support in direct financial donations.

“Let’s just make sure you’re putting cash in because that’s what they need.”

After visiting locals impacted by the fires, Mr Morrison flagged that mental health assistance and help with burying dead livestock were two priorities for the relief effort.

He said Health Minister Greg Hunt was working on a mental health package for bushfire impacted communities.

Salvation Army volunteers — including two Belgian tourists visiting SA who wanted to pitch in — are among dozens of volunteers helping ADF reservists on the island.