In an effort to tackle these unprecedented workforce challenges, the federal government held their much-talked-about Jobs and Skills Summit earlier this month. Bringing together delegates from civil society, government, and employers, the two-day event delivered several significant and immediate measures, a number of which will have a direct impact on the revitatlisation of our visitor economy.
Although the Summit has not provided any silver bullets for our industry, the event spoke directly to many of the challenges faced by the tourism sector. From introducing measures aimed at reducing employment barriers, to easing visa application pressures, it is affirming to see that government has listened and responded to some of our immediate concerns.
I am emboldened by the new tone of collaboration between industry and government and look forward to working closely with all levels of government to drive improved results for our visitor economy. I invite you to read
QTIC’s summary of the key Summit measures that impact the tourism sector and likely, many of our members.
Earlier this month we welcomed the Queensland government’s announcement of a jointly funded $7 million Tourism Recovery and Resilience package. Aimed squarely at supporting eligible tourism operators who were affected by the extraordinary cyclone and flooding events of 2021-2022.
With grants from $20,000 up to $150,000 available to impacted businesses, the funding is designed to not only help operators rebuild, but to assist them in rebuilding with future extreme weather events in mind. We encourage all eligible operators to
apply for the funding and to future-proof their businesses.
In sad news, this month saw the passing of a much-loved stalwart of tourism, Stephen Gregg. Stephen’s enormous contributions and leadership within our nation’s tourism industry were unrivalled, with his commitment to tourism stemming more than 40 years.
While Stephen held many senior roles during his long career, he will be most remembered by QTIC as instrumental in establishing our state’s peak industry body in 2001 and was subsequently the Chair of QTIC from 2004 to 2012. Stephen guided the growth and direction of our organisation over many years and his legacy will live on in our advocacy.
Stephen's quiet leadership and thoughtful resolve touched many within Australia’s tourism sector. While the various significant outcomes he achieved for our sector will have a ripple effect that stretches across generations, Stephen will be equally remembered for the wonderful individual he was. A man who made friends easily, and whose counsel was sought regularly. His considered, collaborative and ever supportive engagement with our industry will be sadly missed by all of us who admired Stephen, including QTIC Directors, current and former staff. Our thoughts remain with Stephen’s wife, Christine, and his family.
Kind Regards,
Brett Fraser
QTIC CEO
