As we move through the winter months in Queensland, I want to acknowledge the many challenges operators are navigating right now. Rising cost of living pressures are impacting visitor spending, fuel prices remain volatile, businesses are preparing for the recent increase to the minimum wage and many are also adjusting to changes that will see credit card surcharges absorbed by operators. These pressures are real and they come at a time when many businesses are continuing to invest in their people, products and visitor experiences.

Against this backdrop, it is more important than ever that QTIC continues advocating for policy settings that support you and a strong visitor economy.

Over the past fortnight, we have seen two positive outcomes that reflect the value of member partnership, engagement and collective advocacy. Brisbane City Council has confirmed it will not proceed with proposed restrictions on short stay accommodation providers. This is an important outcome as Queensland prepares for Brisbane 2032 and growing visitor demand. Short stay accommodation plays a critical role in supporting tourism capacity, major events and regional destinations, and this decision demonstrates the importance of evidence-based policy and strong collaboration between industry, government and stakeholders.

We have also welcomed amendments to the Queensland Government’s proposed e-mobility laws, which will now allow 12–17-year-olds to use e-mobility devices under parental supervision. While licensing requirements remain and are expected to impact operators, this change reflects the importance of ensuring tourism perspectives are considered in policy development. Thank you to the many operators who took the time to share their experiences and insights throughout the consultation process. Your input helped strengthen our advocacy and ensure the industry’s voice was heard.

There is also much to celebrate across our industry. Congratulations to the 325 QTIC members recognised through this year’s Best of Queensland Experiences Program. Your commitment to delivering exceptional visitor experiences, embracing continuous improvement and investing in sustainability helps position Queensland as a leader in high-quality tourism experiences.

Looking ahead, I encourage you to join us for the QTIC NAIDOC Corporate Breakfast on 8 July as we celebrate 50 Years of Deadly and come together to recognise the extraordinary contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to our industry, communities and state.

Finally, it was incredibly inspiring to recently launch the 2026 Young Tourism Leaders Program and Queensland Tourism Futures Mentoring Program. The passion, energy and ambition shown by our emerging leaders was a powerful reminder that Queensland tourism has a bright future. Investing in people remains one of the most important things we can do as an industry, and I look forward to seeing the impact these programs will have in the years ahead.

Thank you for everything you do to make Queensland one of the world’s most welcoming and memorable destinations.

Kind regards,

Tash Wheeler