By Ilias Karagiannis
The long-standing inefficiencies of the Greek state—bureaucracy, procrastination, and lack of strategic planning—are reflected in the case of the reopening of the Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) office at the Greek Centre in Melbourne, Victoria.
A project of strategic importance for promoting Greece in one of the world’s key tourism markets, Australia, and for strengthening ties with the country’s vibrant Greek community, continues to face significant delays nearly 18 months after its official announcement by Greece’s then-Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias.
Despite the importance of the initiative and the opportunities it could offer for tourism growth, staffing the office has proven challenging. The initial job posting for the position of Head of the Melbourne office was published on 21 May 2024, only to be withdrawn shortly after due to “urgent operational needs.”
A new posting was issued just last week, on November 20, underscoring the recurring postponements and the state’s inability to make timely decisions on critical matters.
According to the latest job announcement, the role of Head of the GNTO office in Melbourne involves responsibility for promoting Greek tourism across Australia, New Zealand, and the island nations of Oceania. Interested candidates were required to submit applications by Monday, November 25.
The evaluation process, set to take place soon, includes interviews before a three-member committee. Only permanent GNTO employees are eligible to apply, with the term of office lasting three years and the possibility of a three-year extension.
The ongoing delays in reopening the office have raised questions about the efficiency of the process, particularly given Melbourne’s strategic significance as home to one of the largest Greek communities worldwide.
The office’s operation is deemed crucial for enhancing Greece’s presence in high-interest markets, implementing targeted tourism campaigns, and fostering collaborations with local organisations.
However, the substantial delays now push the reopening of the GNTO office in Melbourne to 2025.
