The Abbott government has been urged to “get serious” about tourism ahead of revealing what’s in store for the sector in next week’s Budget. Shadow Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Albanese has called for the government to provide a real increase for tourism promotion and make up for the cuts they tried to conceal in last year's budget in order to trigger jobs growth in the sector. Tourism Accommodation Australia recent statistics showed a $16 return for every $1 invested in international marketing. Among a number of initiatives, Albanese has urged the government to restore tourism grants funding for regional tourism businesses, provide operators with access to the small business advice program and appoint a Minister for Tourism.