Great Barrier Reef resorts one step closer to $25 million facelift

The Palaszczuk Government’s $25 million investment to rejuvenate Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef Island resorts is underway, with applications for a new infrastructure fund set to open on August 1.

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said the Great Barrier Reef had an important role in the growth of tourism in Australia and securing Queensland as a leading tourism destination.

“When it comes to tourism, the Palaszczuk Government has the runs on the board,” she said.

“The Great Barrier Reef contributes $6 billion to our economy and supports more than 60,000 jobs – it is without doubt Queensland’s greatest asset.

“That’s why we committed $25 million during the election to revamp these island resorts.

“We’ve made great headway already and I’m proud to reveal today that applications for our new infrastructure fund will open on August 1.

“The Fund will deliver infrastructure for the Great Barrier Reef islands to rejuvenate resorts and offer world-class experiences to visitors and I look forward to receiving strong proposals for proponents ambitious to restore island resorts to their former glory.”

Ms Jones said the Fund would focus on growing and cleaning the GBR Islands resorts, with one main aim to encourage protection of the reef and its islands.

“This investment will assist in attracting new and return visitors and increase visitor expenditure in Queensland,” said Ms Jones.

“We’re investing an extra $180 million in tourism in this term of government to create jobs in this sector in the long-term.”

The fund will be open to Island resort owners and operators within the GBR region who have an existing resort or approved plans for a resort.

“Island resorts are an iconic part of the tourism offering and are essential to attracting new and return visitors to the reef. They’re also an important part of the broader Queensland tourism plan,” Ms Jones said.

GBR resort operators and lease holders will be briefed on funding guidelines and invited to consider making an application.

ENDS

Media contact: Jack Harbour 0419 620 447