Premier set to meet Cairns tourism operators today

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Member for Cairns Michael Healy will meet with Far North tourism operators today to discuss the industry’s economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.

Over the last 12 months, the Palaszczuk Government had committed more than $64 million to support tourism businesses in Far North Queensland to recover from COVID-19.

The Premier said this support included $10.6 million in small business grants to enable operators to adapt and sustain their operations, a $6.5 million investment into tourism infrastructure and more than $18.4 million in job support loans to protect local jobs.

“Tourism operators in the Far North have done it extremely tough over the last 18 months,” the Premier said.

“Over the last 12 months, we’ve worked closely with operators to deliver millions of dollars’ worth of support for the local tourism sector.

“Thanks to the way locals have responded to this health crisis, we’ve also seen restrictions start to ease.

“Today is about getting feedback from the industry to ensure we continue to support operators to rebuild and recover.”

Member for Cairns Michael Healy said he had been in constant contact with tourism operators, carrying their message as he understands the economic importance of the tourism industry to the Far Northern economy.

“Our community and our economy relies on a strong tourism industry. That’s why I’ve invited the Premier back to Cairns to follow up with operators,” Mr Healy said.

“This government has invested more in rebuilding the tourism industry than any other state government in Australia because we recognise how important it is to support tourism jobs.

“It’s great to have the Premier in the Tropical North so soon after the election – proof that the government is focused on rebuilding our economy and safeguarding local jobs.”

ENDS

Media contact: Jack Harbour 0419 620 447