Tourism in Action: A word from Brett Fraser (August)

We’ve covered a lot of ground so far this year in terms of advocacy and advancing the needs of the tourism industry. This month we saw the Australian Government release the Aviation White Paper – a framework that sets out 56 policy initiatives to ensure a safer, and a more competitive, sustainable and productive industry sector.


I’m pleased to share that the White Paper includes key recommendations from QTIC, such as improved accessibility for people with disabilities, a Productivity Commission review to enhance regional aviation services, and a commitment to Sustainable Aviation Fuel production. While it is positive to see a spirit of collaboration between industry and government, more could be done to support passenger facilitation and to ensure that Australia’s aviation sector remains competitive.

This month QTIC also released our election priorities in the lead up to the 2024 state election. We know that a strong tourism industry drives a prosperous state, helping to build vibrant communities, create employment, and showcase destinations. The next Queensland Government must commit to proactive investment and work with industry to empower businesses to thrive.

We are calling on the next Queensland Government to address six key priorities that you, our members, say are critical for a thriving tourism industry. I encourage you to read the foremost concerns and needs that we are advocating for on your behalf and for all of industry. From enhancing transportation and connectivity to elevating tourism to a central government portfolio and attracting a skilled workforce, these priorities have come directly from our discussions with you in region, through our various industry committees, engagement and research, and our most recent QTIC member survey. I invite you to see what your fellow members listed as the top industry concerns through our survey results summary. As the 2024 election approaches, we will keep engaging with you and advocating for the key priorities of our members to drive meaningful change.

I am also pleased to announce that in 2024 and 2025 QTIC will be delivering the Tourism Business Digital Adaption Program, which is made possible through funding from the Queensland Government. Following calls from tourism businesses for greater support to expand their reach in a digital world, this program will help operators improve their technology capabilities by giving businesses up to $2,500 to spend on approved digital tools. Whether it is improving websites and online booking systems or investing in social media management tools and better payment gateways, I encourage all small to medium-sized tourism operators to take advantage of this fantastic program.

As we move steadily further into the latter half of the year, I look forward to sharing more industry wins, as well as the programs and initiatives that QTIC are delivering on your behalf.

Kind regards,

Brett Fraser
QTIC CEO