North Queensland the centre of new tourism plan

North Queensland’s iconic destinations are taking centre stage in a new plan to boost tourism across the region.

Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke said the Palaszczuk Government’s Advancing Tourism in North Queensland plan acknowledged the importance of tourism to regional economies.

“Millions of people visit North Queensland each year to experience our regional centres and towns from Rockhampton to the Cape,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“In the last year alone visitors spent $4 billion in North Queensland, supporting jobs throughout the region.

“North Queensland offers iconic cultural and natural destinations that draw visitors from all over the world.

“From the Great Barrier Reef, to an outback adventure or rainforest retreat – there really is something for everyone in our diverse region.”

Mrs O’Rourke said the plan outlined actions to address the industry’s key challenges including: 

• Improving water quality across the Great Barrier Reef
• Identifying events for the Townsville Stadium;
• Supporting cruise and maritime infrastructure;
• Developing nature tourism’
• Assisting Indigenous business capability.

 “Confronting these challenges will position North Queensland to develop and deliver even greater infrastructure investment, creating more jobs for Queenslanders.

“We know that tourism is key to unlocking the north’s full potential, and that is why it is one of my priority areas to advance North Queensland’s economy.”

Minister for Tourism and Major Events Kate Jones said the planwas part of the government’s broader state-wide strategy to grow tourism.

“Tourism is a $23 billion industry that supports 220,000 jobs and contributes to the economies of towns and cities across Queensland,” Ms Jones said.

“We know that every extra dollar visitors spend here in Queensland supports the creation of new jobs.

“The tourism industry is booming here in Queensland and we want to ensure that every region of our state benefits.

 Media contact: Minister O'Rourke's office 0408 317 992

“Making sure we get it right in North Queensland is critical to the success of growing the industry across the state.”

Advancing Tourism in North Queensland identifies four key action areas to develop the tourism industry:

• Growing quality products, events and experiences;
• Investing in infrastructure and access;
• Building a skilled workforce;
• Seizing the opportunity in Asia.

To view the strategy visit www.dtesb.qld.gov.au/tourism.