Counting down to Cairns G20 meeting

The countdown is on to Queensland’s first G20 event, with only one year to go until the meeting of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors in Cairns.

Queensland Treasurer and Minister for Trade Tim Nicholls said preparations were well underway for the milestone event, which will see Cairns at the centre of international media coverage.

“This event is a great opportunity to showcase Cairns and tropical North Queensland to the rest of the world,” Mr Nicholls said.

Assistant Minister for Tourism and Member for Cairns Gavin King said the G20 meeting would have a lasting impact on tourism in the State’s far north.

“This meeting is bringing some of the most influential politicians in the world right to our doorstep, meaning pictures of this beautiful part of the State will be broadcast across the globe,” Mr King said.

“The influx of visitors will also stimulate the local economy, with 2,000 people expected to visit Cairns as part of the event.

“This means crowded hotels, full restaurants and a general burst of activity across Cairns.

“I encourage all retailers and businesses in the CBD to get on board and get behind the G20 meeting by making sure we present our city in the best possible way for this event.”

Mr Nicholls said all levels of Government were working hard to make sure the Cairns G20 event was as successful as possible.

“The Queensland Government is working with the Australian Government, as hosts of the meeting, as well as the Cairns Regional Council and local businesses to deliver a memorable meeting that ensures Cairns businesses get the most out of having the G20 come to town,” he said.

Mr Nicholls said the G20 Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ meeting was being held on 20-21 September next year and was an important step in the lead up to the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brisbane on 15-16 November.

“Queensland is the best place in Australia to invest, employ and grow and the G20 meetings are a fantastic opportunity to outline the many trade and investment opportunities our great State affords,” he said.

[ENDS] 20 September 2013

Media Contact: Treasurer’s Office 07 3224 6900