State Budget backs tourism as a driver of Queensland’s future

Following the release of the 2025–26 Queensland State Budget, the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) has welcomed the significant investment in tourism, aligned with the priorities outlined in Destination 2045.

More than $1 billion has been committed over four years across key areas of workforce development, regional infrastructure, aviation access, and tourism experience delivery. QTIC acknowledges this as a strong signal that the government understands the sector’s role in driving economic and community outcomes statewide.

This Budget brings investment to several areas that industry has consistently identified as critical – workforce capability, regional access, product development and experience-led growth.

The funding to support Destination 2045 gives industry a foundation to move forward, but implementation and continued engagement will be key.

Budget highlights for the tourism industry:

Destination 2045 launch

$446 million over four years to kick-start the state’s 20-year tourism strategy.
$200 million for the Connecting Queensland Fund to secure strategic aviation routes and improve regional airport access.
$146 million for Tourism and Events Queensland marketing and global representation.
$100 million to secure marquee events that grow Queensland’s global profile.

Tourism programs and grants

$12.8 million for the Growing Future Tourism capital grants program.
$5.7 million for Bush Boost grants to enhance outback tourism.
$3 million for First Nations tourism, matched by the Commonwealth.
$10 million uplift to Regional Tourism Organisations through the Tourism Network Fund.

Workforce and skills development

$203.1 million for subsidised training, including 70,000 Free TAFE placements in tourism and hospitality.
$10 million for Free Apprenticeships for Under 25s.
$201.1 million to establish four new TAFE Centres of Excellence (Caloundra, Moreton Bay, Rockhampton, Southern Moreton Bay Islands).

Eco-tourism and product investment

$43.5 million to deliver new nature-based experiences including the Wangetti Trail, Palm Island Tourism Development, and the Whitsunday Skyway.
$28 million for national park visitor facilities.

Transport and connectivity

$41.7 billion in road and rail investment under the Safer Roads, Better Transport Plan.
Projects include the Bruce Highway upgrade, Sunshine Coast “Wave” Rail Link, and Logan–Gold Coast Faster Rail.
$1.8 million for inner-city visitor connectivity through the River Reach Walkable Spine.

Looking ahead

QTIC will continue to work with members and government to ensure these investments translate into practical benefits for operators across Queensland. The funding provides momentum, but implementation will require ongoing industry engagement to meet the diverse needs of our sector.

We’ll continue to keep members informed as further detail emerges around delivery timelines, funding access, and regional opportunities.

Kind regards,

Tash Wheeler
QTIC CEO

Industry support