Over the past fortnight, I’ve had the privilege of travelling through regional Queensland alongside Tourism and Events Queensland, Outback Queensland Tourism Association and the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, meeting with operators, local councils and regional leaders across communities including Longreach and Barcaldine.

There is nothing more valuable than being on the ground, listening directly to industry. These conversations provide important firsthand insight into the realities businesses are facing, but also the resilience and optimism that continues to define Queensland tourism.

Experiences like the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame are a reminder of the incredible depth of history, character and authenticity that make Outback Queensland so special. These are the experiences visitors are seeking and why regional tourism remains such a vital part of Queensland’s visitor economy.

At the same time, there is no question many operators are doing it tough. The current fuel crisis continues to impact consumer confidence, forward bookings and operating costs right across the state, particularly in regional and remote communities. Businesses are telling us that travellers are delaying bookings, shortening trips and reconsidering regional travel altogether. For many operators already navigating rising insurance, workforce and energy costs, this latest challenge is placing further pressure on already tight margins.

That is why QTIC continues to advocate strongly on behalf of industry. Alongside Queensland Farmers Federation and Business Chamber Queensland, we have called on the Federal Government to deliver targeted support measures for SMEs, including a proposed $50 million support package to help businesses remain operational through this challenging period.

Our advocacy includes calls for payroll tax relief, fee and permit deferrals, BAS-linked cashflow support, concessional finance and targeted fuel support for tourism operators. We know the cost of inaction for regional communities, jobs and businesses would be far greater than the cost of intervention.

To everyone who took the time to meet with us during these visits, thank you. Your openness, honesty and willingness to share both the challenges and opportunities facing your businesses is invaluable in shaping QTIC’s advocacy and ensuring your voice is represented where it matters most.

Closer to home, it was also fantastic to spend time in Logan for the recent QTIC Board Meeting. Thank you to Logan City Council for hosting us and showcasing the impressive growth and tourism development taking place across the region. It was wonderful to connect with members, hear what is working on the ground and see the quality tourism products continuing to emerge across Logan.

Finally, a couple of important reminders for members. QTIC is currently seeking Expressions of Interest for our new Events Sector Advisory Group, which will help inform advocacy and policy development across regulation, workforce, infrastructure and regional event growth. EOIs close 18 May.

And if you haven’t already, nominations for the 2026 Queensland Tourism Awards have been extended until 15 May. It only takes 10 minutes to enter and there is fantastic support available through the Awards Academy to help businesses put their best foot forward.

Thank you, as always, for the work you do every day to make Queensland one of the world’s great tourism destinations.

Kind regards,

Tash Wheeler