Australian tourism operators are jumping at the chance to be featured in the Oprah Winfrey Show when it makes its debut down under next month.
The TV host is headed to Australia to film several episodes of her hit talk show, the first time it will have been filmed outside the United States.
Tourism Minister Martin Ferguson on Monday labelled it a major coup that will give Australia the chance to boost its flagging tourism fortunes.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Already some 3000 tourism products and services around the country have applied to Tourism Australia, desperate for the opportunity to be featured in the show.
"The tourism industry at the moment is very challenged by the strength of the Australian dollar," Mr Ferguson told parliament.
"People must appreciate that tourism is a major employer of Australians, just under one million directly and indirectly.
"In that context, the Oprah Winfrey Show is very important."
Two episodes are due to be filmed at the Sydney Opera House, and they will air in January.
That Winfrey chose Australia for her "ultimate adventure" was to Australia's credit and great benefit, Mr Ferguson said, noting that her show is seen by 40 million Americans each week.
After being jeered by the coalition, he duly noted that "thousands of Australians - including those from the opposition side of the house - have sought tickets".
