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Tourism in Queensland has finally copped the attention it’s been crying out for, with the 2025–26 State Budget rolling out a whopping $1 billion over four years in support of the sector – a move being lauded as both visionary and overdue.

After years of toiling behind the scenes – or in front of them, depending on whether you’re in a tour bus or a helicopter – Queensland’s tourism industry has been handed the sort of fiscal love usually reserved for Olympic bids and mining royalties. And fittingly so, given the Brisbane 2032 Games are lurking just around the bend.

At the heart of this financial courtship is Destination 2045, Queensland’s long-term tourism strategy, now finally armed with cash, not just glossy brochures. $446 million has been earmarked to get the ball rolling, with $200 million for product development and aviation attraction, $146 million to support Tourism and Events Queensland, and another tidy $100 million to lure global events that will keep Queensland top of mind – and front of the itinerary.

According to QTIC Chief Executive Natassia Wheeler, this isn’t just a monetary win; it’s a recognition of tourism’s rightful place in the economic and cultural fabric of the state.

“The Budget shows that tourism isn’t just about beaches and baristas,” Wheeler said. “It’s a key driver of regional prosperity, community identity, and yes, even good old-fashioned jobs.”

And speaking of jobs, the Budget’s crystal ball gazers have looked into Queensland’s future and seen workforce shortages looming. Their answer? Over $200 million dedicated to tourism and hospitality training, including new facilities in Caloundra, Moreton Bay, Rockhampton, and the Southern Moreton Bay Islands. Expect a new wave of hospitality stars to rise – possibly from behind a coffee machine, cocktail shaker, or wildlife encounter desk.

It’s a move Wheeler says will help shore up long-term industry resilience.

“We’ve been banging the drum for years about the need for regional training hubs,” she added. “Finally, someone’s listening – and putting their money where the workforce is.”

The Budget also sweetens the eco-pot with $43.5 million set aside for nature-based and eco-tourism experiences, ranging from reefs to rainforests, and from the hinterland to the highlands. Queensland’s natural riches, after all, don’t just speak for themselves – they need signs, trails, and the occasional well-placed composting toilet.

Meanwhile, Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs) are also getting a welcome top-up, alongside a co-designed push for a long-term, sustainable funding model – the kind of wonky policy phrase that often precedes either brilliant innovation or another talkfest in a conference centre. Time will tell.

But infrastructure is where this Budget gets down to brass tacks. With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games charging up the tracks, the state’s spending big on road and rail upgrades to get visitors where they need to be – and hopefully, on time. That means better access to regional destinations, which could finally enjoy the tourism flow they’ve long deserved.

Wheeler, ever the pragmatist, is quick to point out that while this Budget is an excellent step forward, it’s not the final chapter.

“Tourism thrives on momentum and trust. This Budget delivers on both – but ongoing dialogue and delivery will be the real test.”

She’s right, of course. Tourism isn’t a one-budget wonder. It needs consistency, collaboration, and clear skies – figuratively and literally, especially when we’re talking about aviation attraction.

If Queensland plays its cards right, the 2045 goalpost isn’t just achievable – it’s already being constructed, kilometre by funded kilometre. And when the world comes knocking for the Olympics, it’ll find a state ready to roll out the welcome mat, the red carpet and, if necessary, a cane toad in a bow tie.

Let’s not forget – tourism is about people. Real, working people. From the barista in Bundy to the reef guide in Cairns, this Budget is a nod to every Queenslander who’s ever pointed out a croc, made a flat white, or smiled through an airport delay.

So here’s to 2045 – now with funding, flight paths and, one hopes, fewer potholes.