New QuEST for Queensland national parks
Published Tuesday, 30 July, 2013 at 10:49 AM
Minister for National Parks, Recreation, Sport and Racing
The Honourable Steve Dickson
National Parks Minister Steve Dickson said the Queensland Eco and Sustainable Tourism (QuEST) policy would support development of new and innovative ecotourism ideas, helping position Queensland as the number one ecotourism destination in Australia.
“The Newman Government is determined to open up our beautiful national parks land for all Queenslanders and visitors to enjoy, and this new framework is another way our election commitment is being delivered,” Mr Dickson said.
“QuEST will allow greater opportunity for new ecotourism attractions in national parks and protected areas, offering world-class experiences across the state.
“We’ve created a streamlined system to reduce red tape and costs for operators while promoting best practice standards by requiring compulsory standards of eco-certification.”
“The LNP is also supporting a thriving ecotourism industry by offering incentives for standout ecotourism operators, such as priority access to visitor sites and marketing partnerships with government.”
Mr Dickson said operators would have greater business certainty under QuEST with new long termactivity agreements of 15 years which are able to be sold; replacing previous three year, non-transferable permits.
“Queensland has five World Heritage areas, more than any other state, which gives us a unique competitive advantage in both domestic and international markets.
“Our national parks and protected areas receive 51 million visits from domestic tourists each year alone, contributing hugely to one of the state’s four economic pillars.”
Down Under Tours Cairns director James Dixon said the idea of creating incentives was long overdue and would be welcomed by operators in North Queensland.
“Many operators in North Queensland have been industry leaders in best environmental practices for many years and this will encourage more ideas of the highest ecotourism standards,” Mr Dixon said.
Chief Executive of the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, Daniel Gschwind said he fully supported the fresh approach to promoting best practice standards, and industry would be working closely with government to implement QuEST.
Detailed information on the QuEST policy is available at www.nprsr.qld.gov.au.
[Ends] 30 July 2013