Cairns businesses attend master class

Queensland’s tourism businesses will have better success in attracting investment for infrastructure projects and growing the industry, following a series of master classes across the State.

Minister for Tourism and Small Business Jann Stuckey said the Queensland Government recognised the vital role small businesses played in generating economic activity and employment across the state and these sessions supported companies in their efforts.

“The government has been working closely with the tourism industry and small businesses to address key issues impacting on development including planning and red tape,” Ms Stuckey said.

“We promised to grow tourism as one of the four pillars of the economy and, with these classes, we are delivering.

“It is part of our strong plan for the industry that employs thousands of mums and dads and will provide a brighter future for them and their families.

“Industry experts, Deloitte, have been engaged by Government to deliver these forums in Brisbane, Mackay and Cairns.

“Attracting investment for tourism infrastructure is a priority for the Queensland Government and has been highlighted in both DestinationQ and the Destination Success 20-year Action Plan for the industry in Queensland.

“We have been working closely with companies seeking investment to grow and develop their tourism businesses and have invited them to participate in these master classes.”

Assistant Minister for Tourism and Member for Cairns Gavin King, who attended the session today delivered by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu, said the class provided an outline of global and Australian investment environments and investor expectations.

“Presenters provide attendees with an overview on how to prepare tourism investment proposals and engage with investors,” Mr King said.

“The tourism industry contributes more than $15 billion annually to the Queensland economy and currently employs 220,000 Queenslanders so it’s important that we provide businesses with the best possible chance to succeed in a national and international market.

“We are committed to ensuring that the industry remains strong and continues to thrive.

“Our recent announcement to progress the Aquis Great Barrier Reef integrated resort development is a clear sign of our commitment to attract new investment after so many years of the anti-jobs, anti-business approach of the former Labor Government.”

[ENDS] 13 June 2014
Media Contact: Natalie Wynne 0439 291 268