First, I’m pleased to let you know that the 2026 Tourism Business Capability Subsidy is now open. QTIC is proud to be delivering this program, which offers up to $2,000 to eligible Queensland tourism and event businesses for targeted training or accreditation. Whether you’re looking to gain national recognition, build new skills, improve sustainability and accessibility, or invest in qualifications such as marine or tour guide accreditation, this is a practical opportunity to strengthen your business and invest in your future.

We’re also celebrating the very best of our industry, with nominations now open for the Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards. These awards recognise the communities that bring our state to life, from coastal gems and mountain escapes to outback and vineyard regions. Importantly, nominations are also open for Top Tour Guide, shining a light on the incredible storytellers who create unforgettable visitor experiences. I encourage you to nominate your town, your region or someone who deserves recognition.

Investing in people remains a key priority. QTIC Queensland Tourism Futures Mentoring Program is still welcoming both mentees and mentors. If you’re looking to grow your career, this is a valuable opportunity to gain confidence, build connections and learn directly from industry leaders. If you’re an experienced operator or leader, I encourage you to consider becoming a mentor and help shape the next generation of tourism talent.

On the advocacy front, we have been active in ensuring your voice is heard at the national level. QTIC has lodged our 2026–27 Federal Budget submission, positioning tourism and events as a national asset ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Our priorities include international aviation and global marketing, workforce supply and skills, insurance affordability reform, and strengthening First Nations tourism as a core Games legacy.

I was also in Canberra this week representing QTIC members at Tourism Australia’s Friends of Tourism event at Parliament House. We all reinforced the need to expand working holiday visas, address insurance affordability, increase destination marketing investment and maintain the Passenger Movement Charge to protect industry competitiveness.

In addition, QTIC has taken our advocacy on modernising Queensland’s international arrivals process to national media, including The Australian Financial Review. With 2032 approaching, we are calling for reinvestment in border systems, streamlined arrivals and coordinated co-investment in aviation and tourism enabling infrastructure to ensure visitors’ first impression matches the quality of our destination.

As always, QTIC is working to turn industry challenges into clear, coordinated advocacy and practical support for your business.

Thank you for everything you do for Queensland’s visitor economy.

Kind regards,

Tash Wheeler