Following the Federal Government’s latest extension of Australia’s cruise suspension last week, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has launched the latest phase of its Ready, Set, Sail lobbying campaign urging travel agents, industry stakeholders and other supporters to send a new message to state and federal lawmakers.

The campaign directs supporters to an online tool at www.ReadySetSail.com.au where they can message politicians quickly and easily.

Users can generate instant emails to local MPs and key Ministers or personalise a message to relay their own story and circumstances.

CLIA Managing Director Australasia Joel Katz said an initial Ready, Set, Sail campaign launched in May had resulted in more than 40,000 emails to MPs around Australia.

“Politicians are increasingly acknowledging the need to revive the cruise economy, but we need them to do more so we can get detailed plans in place,” he said.

CLIA recently called for cruising to be included in the four-phase National Plan to reopen Australia.

The association has outlined its own four-phase plan to revive cruising – based on the same vaccination targets used in the National Plan.

“Australia is the only major cruise destination in the world where governments have made no progress towards a responsible resumption of cruising, despite months of discussions and the availability of stringent new health protocols,” Katz added.

Travel professionals can join the Ready, Set, Sail campaign by visiting www.ReadySetSail.com.au and use the template to reach MPs.