Our calls for action saw the Federal Government this past month announce that an extension of post-study work rights and an easing of pre-pandemic student visa work hours restrictions will come into effect mid-year. With less than 20 per cent of international students currently staying in Australia after their graduation, expanding work rights provides students with an easier pathway into the workforce. Under the changes, graduates will be able to stay longer and to use their skills within Queensland rather than overseas.
But retaining skilled people is just one piece of the puzzle. Attracting talented workers and international visitors will help secure our success. This past month saw our industry celebrating the one-year anniversary of the landmark $200 million Attracting Aviation Investment Fund and an announcement that Korean Air will restart direct flights to Queensland. The airline deal marks the 15th agreement signed since the inception of the fund and is estimated to generate $1 billion in visitor spending for Queensland.
Over the past year, the $200 million aviation war chest has secured more than 1.1 million inbound international seats and has generated over $960 million in overnight visitor spending. I relish the opportunity to celebrate these wins for industry and am reminded of the tangible power of advocacy. Securing the funding and new direct flights has been a combined effort of government and industry. It is wonderful to see Queensland’s global connectivity grow through the power of collaboration.
It is also important to celebrate not only the ongoing revival of our tourism industry, but to take the time to recognise the individuals that make Queensland a great destination to begin with. Without the unique destinations and communities that offer outstanding visitor experiences, we would not have a tourism industry. In 2023, QTIC is once more shining a spotlight on the state’s exceptional destinations through the annual Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards. With nominations now open and closing March 6, I urge local communities and councils to come together and unite in nominating their regional destination for the 2023 Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards. You can learn more and nominate here.
Kind Regards,
Brett Fraser
QTIC CEO
