Recovery funding to supercharge Outback event season

“Outback Queensland is a beautiful part of this country, and I look forward to seeing people visiting those areas once again and re-generating local economy off the back of these events,” Minister McBain said. 

“The Albanese Government is continuing to work closely with the Crisafulli Government to ensure that disaster impacted communities get the support they need to recover.” 

Federal Assistant Minister for Tourism and Senator for Queensland Nita Green said that this would be welcome relief for Outback Queenslanders. 

“It’s been a tough few months for tourism operators in Outback Queensland. “Supporting these events will encourage visitation to regional Queensland and support local businesses,” Ms Green said. 

“This is just one way our government is supporting regional Queensland in recover from natural disasters.” 

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said events were a critical driver of tourism and economic activity in regional Queensland. 

“Events put heads in beds, money through local businesses and confidence back into communities,” Minister Powell said. 

“This funding will help organisers improve their programs, grow their audiences and drive tourism, bolstering Queensland as the Home of the Holiday and supporting Outback communities as they recover.” 

Tourism and Events Queensland Chief Executive Officer Craig Davidson said the breadth of successful projects reflected the strength and diversity of events across the region. 

“We received many great applications throughout this process, highlighting just how important events are to Outback Queensland’s tourism economy,” Mr Davidson said. 

“By supporting 15 events across every eligible local government area, this funding will help drive visitation and spread the benefits of recovery across the region.” 

Funded initiatives include enhanced marketing campaigns, expanded event programming, additional artists and performers, improved production and the engagement of specialist digital, media and public relations support to increase out-of-region awareness. 

The Western Queensland Events Boost Fund forms part of the broader $2.14 million tourism recovery program delivered by TEQ and supported by the jointly funded Commonwealth–State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). 

ENDS 

MEDIA CONTACTS: 

Minister McBain: David Jean, 0467 559 492 

Minister Powell: Ruth McCosker, 0406 331 114