Report card shows positive tourism growth

Jobs have been created and Queensland’s economy has been buoyed by strong tourism growth over the past three years according to a new report card released at the third DestinationQ forum. 

Premier Campbell Newman said there were 27,000 new jobs in tourism and the sector had grown by $3.5 billion since the Government promised to grow the industry as one of the four pillars of the economy.

“The DestinationQ Report Card proves that our strong partnerships with industry have helped to create jobs and revitalise tourism, which was neglected under Labor,” Mr Newman said.

“We promised to listen to the mums and dads who are operating tourism businesses through our DestinationQ strategy and forums and this approach has been successful.

“The Can-Do LNP Government moved quickly to get tourism back on track and to restore the sector as one of the four pillars of the economy.

“This important industry will create the jobs that today’s children will have in the future so we must continue to support it.

The following are key outcomes since the 1^st DestinationQ Forum: 

• Tourism industry has grown by $3.5 Billion
• Tourism Jobs increased by 27,000
• Total Overnight visitors increased 1.2% to 20.1 million.
• 13 Destination Tourism Plans implemented
• National Parks open for business
• Funding doubled to RTOs
• $49.5M in new TEQ funding
• $51M in domestic marketing
• $31.5M in international marketing
• 246 regional events supported
• 106 Major Events supported

Tourism Minister Jann Stuckey said the Government’s strong plan would continue to create a bright future for the industry and build on the growth since the first Forum in 2012.

“The theme at the third DestinationQ Forum is Growing Your Product – Growing our Industry,” Ms Stuckey said.

“I’m confident the 2014 Forum will continue to build on our partnerships, focusing on the practical steps industry and government are taking to achieve our long term vision.

“The DestinationQ Report Card shows us what can be achieved by listening to industry and cutting red tape and regulation in the tourism sector.

“We will continue to make it easier for operators to provide first class experiences for tourists.”

The DestinationQ report card was launched alongside Noosa Ferry Cruise owner Don McBryde who has recently added a new eco cruise showcasing Noosa’s rich natural history to his family cruise business.

“It’s great to hear government is taking an active and considered approach to growing tourism,” Mr McBride said.

“There are hundreds of jobs on the Sunshine Coast alone which rely on the tourist dollar, so it’s encouraging this government is listening to the industry.”

[ENDS] 16 September 2014

Media contacts: Premier’s Office: 3719 7000

Jarrad Brevi: 07 3179 7252 / 0439 291 268