We welcome the invitation and the chance to represent you and our tourism industry at these critical discussions. Few industries have been harder hit or more broadly impacted than the tourism and hospitality sector. It is vital for those invested in the visitor economy to have a voice at the table and to present all levels of government with a true picture of our concerns and needs.
As your peak industry body, we will expand on the need for an easing of VISA application pressures and for funding to be injected into workforce development projects. We will also make it known that effective campaigns are needed to attract skilled migrants and working holiday makers to Queensland. Rest assured that we will use the timely opportunities presented by the Jobs and Skills Summit to bring your voice to government and make your needs heard.
But we cannot rely on a jobs summit alone to solve our industry challenges. Earlier this month I met with industry counterparts and government representatives to discuss the
Action Plan for Tourism Recovery and how several of the plan’s independent recommendations may best be achieved and implemented.
From tapping into a growing consumer demand for ecotourism experiences and adventure activities, to diversifying Queensland’s international market and reinventing our coastal experiences, the Action Plan has ignited discussion and ideas on growth. We are enthusiastic to be part of this discussion and it is affirming to see government and industry come together to plan the long-term success of our visitor economy.
QTIC is also currently undergoing its own phase of change. I am delighted to share that earlier this month we welcomed Elsa Dalessio as the new Chair of the QTIC Board of Directors, following Shane O’Reilly’s resignation from the position. Many of you will know Elsa and know of her commitment to Queensland’s tourism landscape and our regions. Her extensive experience and many accomplishments in not only tourism, but also the business arena, will translate to successes for QTIC.
I take this opportunity to thank Shane for his service and dedication to QTIC over the past 10 years. QTIC and Queensland’s visitor economy achieved incredible outcomes during Shane's time as Chair. His steady hand and experience helped to guide our entire industry through a global pandemic and, alongside fellow QTIC Director Cameron Costello, helped to bring Indigenous tourism to the fore. Although he steps down from his position as Chair, I know that Shane will remain a guiding voice in our industry.
The past month has highlighted the role QTIC plays within our industry and the importance of advocacy. QTIC’s advocacy would not be possible without the commitment of its members. I thank all those operators and organisations who have renewed their membership for the new financial year. As a membership-based organisation, QTIC relies on your commitment in ensuring our industry has a voice to government. Looking forward, we have a tremendous opportunity with the growth of domestic visitors and return of international travellers. It is important to capitalise on this growth and demand by ensuring that the needs and concerns of our industry and operators are properly heard.
Kind Regards,
Brett Fraser
QTIC CEO
