It is hard to know which topic is the most pressing for our industry at this time. In less than a week, we will know who Queenslanders want to lead the state for the next four years.
Either way – or with a hung Parliament – QTIC will continue to make the case that a strong and well-supported tourism industry it critical for this state and its recovery. We have taken our election priorities to all candidates and we have seen a number of announcements from both major parties that give us some confidence that we are being heard. Of course, election promises are just that, promises. During the next term of government, a lot of real action will have to take place to make sure tourism can not only recover but can power-up the economy and the community. This will also mean clear policy settings to give businesses confidence and certainty, including ongoing COVID-related restrictions. In this context, I draw your attention to the national “to-do list” released by the Business Council of Australia (BCA), calling for a clear path out of border restriction, both internal and international. It is based on a sobering assessment of the cost of travel restrictions and the loss of aviation links.