The Queensland Government Has Invested $1 Billion Into Tourism—Here’s Exactly What It’s Doing

It’s a truth universally acknowledged that Queensland is the holiday capital of Australia. After all, where else can you find stunning white sand beaches, lush tropical rainforests and a legit natural wonder of the world? 

With tourism demand at a constant high and only set to increase off the back of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Queensland Government has their sights on a bold 20-year vision for the future of Queensland—aka Destination 2045.

What is Destination 2045?

Destination 2045 is a roadmap to supercharge Queensland’s tourism industry—with a particular focus on ecotourism—while attracting the world’s biggest names in music, art, sport and culture. Backed by a record $1 billion investment from the Queensland Government over four years, it’s a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” to cement our status as a world leader.

What will Destination 2045 do? 

The key focus of Destination 2045 is 45x45: an ambitious plan to deliver 45 new ecotourism experiences by 2045. Think dark sky tourism experiences, light footprint accommodation, farm stays and the conservation of natural assets. First in line is the next stage of the Wangetti Trail in Cairns ($19.7 million), upgrading the Smithfield Mountain Bike Trail ($15.5 million) and supporting the new Whitsunday Skyway attraction in Airlie Beach ($5 million). 

New experiences are on the cards, with a $125 million investment to support the rollout of new tourism attractions from both domestic and international stakeholders. This extends to the Great Barrier Reef, with the Government targeting private investment to help rejuvenate and meet the unique needs of the islands in the area—like Hook Island, for example. 

Image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland | Phil Warring

Destination 2045 also aims to make Queensland the events capital of Australia, with the “first-ever dedicated mega events attraction fund”. This $100 million investment will increase Queensland’s event calendar across culture and sports, while showcasing Queensland’s regions and celebrating First Nations cultures. 

Of course, Queensland is a big place, and Destination 2045 wants to boost connectivity across the state (and beyond), with direct flights to new markets and improved travel within the regions. 

"We are backing our industry to grow and innovate, with new funds to support events and connectivity, and streamlined regulation to allow our operators to do what they do best,” Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said. “As we look toward Brisbane 2032, this plan ensures we seize the moment to showcase our vibrant cities, pristine beaches and islands, lush rainforests, rich Indigenous cultures, proud heritage, and our cherished way of life.”

Needless to say, there’s never been a more exciting time to be a Queenslander. You can read the full Destination 2045 plan here.

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Main image credit: Tourism and Events Queensland | Gemma Lytwyn