The 2017/18 Queensland Budget has recognised tourism’s role as a critical driver of jobs and regional development, supported with investment across a range projects and industry development initiatives.

Chief Executive of the Queensland Tourism Industry Council Daniel Gschwind said QTIC had made consistent representations on behalf of the tourism industry to encourage appropriate, growth-focused investment for National Parks, attractions, transport infrastructure and workforce development needs.

“We are very pleased to see a significant boost to investment in new visitor infrastructure in National Parks with $35 million allocated over the next two years – QTIC made a strong economic case for this investment which will also support conservation outcomes,” Mr Gschwind said.

“It is one of our great competitive advantages to grow visitor expenditure through exciting experiences in our great natural assets.”

“We were also pleased to see continued support for the Whitsunday and Mackay regions following Cyclone Debbie – the region will receive priority funding for infrastructure improvements from the National Park revitalisation program and will benefit from an additional $8.2 million towards the Tourism and Small Business Recovery Package.”

Mr Gschwind said the increased allocation in funding to address water quality issues with the Great Barrier Reef was also positive news.

Click here to read QTIC’s full media release. 

Click here to view a detailed Factsheet on the tourism highlights from the 2017/18 State Budget.

Source:
Queensland Tourism Industry Council