Earlier this month we welcomed the release of the latest national visitor survey results. The numbers paint a glowing picture of tourism success in Queensland for 2022. Our sunshine state was the most lucrative destination in Australia, with 26.5 million overnight visitors and $30 billion in overnight visitor expenditure. A remarkable achievement made more special when we consider that the $30 billion figure eclipses pre-pandemic earnings.
While we should take the time to rejoice in these accomplishments, our industry is feeling the tides of success shift. The thriving domestic market that kept our industry going over the last three years is showing signs of softening. Many operators are watching profit margins reduce as belts tighten with the rising cost-of-living. In the face of these developing concerns, our industry is also being held back by widespread workforce shortages and accommodation shortages for workers.
