Small Biz Buzz: Hotels boom; Micobrewery 'gold rush'

Here's what's making headlines in the small business world this week.

Australia has over 400 craft beer specialists. Source: Supplied

Tourism drives Aussie hotel industry

The Australian hotel industry's revenue is predicted to hit $8 billion this year.

It's the result of strong tourism figures, with growth in both domestic business travel and foreign visitors, especially from China.

Last year international tourist numbers climbed to 8.5 million - an additional 700,000 visitors.

John Hart, Chair of the Australian Chamber of Tourism, says, "Those that are coming are spending more, and it's that spend that we need because that's where we get the flow-on impact."

"That's where we get the jobs and that's where we get the economic benefit."

Room rates are expected to rise steadily for the next three years.

Queensland microbrewery boost

In Queensland, beer drinkers are driving a microbrewery "gold rush".

Australian Brew News listed 17 new outlets in Brisbane and the Gold Coast in 2017.

Victoria was second with eleven new outlets, followed by NSW with nine.

In total, Australia now has 400 craft beer specialists.

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