Delivering Destination 2045: Queensland Government invests $1.1 million in Queensland events

Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation The Honourable Andrew Powell
  • The Crisafulli Government is delivering $1.17 million to support 21 events across Queensland.
  • Delivered through the Homegrown Destination Event Fund, the investment is expected to inject $90 million into Queensland’s economy.
  • Destination 2045 is cementing Queensland as the events capital of the country after a decade of decline under Labor.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering more than $1.17 million through Destination 2045 to support 21 events across eight regions of Queensland.

The latest round of the Homegrown Destination Event Fund backs three Destination Significant events, 17 Destination Signature events and one through the new Destination Events Kickstarter stream.

These events will be held in communities across Queensland between October 2026 and January 2028 and are expected to inject more than $90 million into the State’s economy.

Destination 2045 is driving Queensland’s tourism resurgence, with more homegrown events creating unforgettable visitor experiences and supporting the industry’s recovery after a decade of decline under Labor.

Funding will support marketing, program enhancements and capability building to boost visitation and strengthen economic outcomes.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said becoming the events capital of Australia was central to the Crisafulli Government’s long-term Destination 2045 tourism plan.

“Queensland is fast becoming the events capital of Australia, and we’re investing in more homegrown events to keep that momentum going,” Minister Powell said.

“These events bring visitors to our regions, fill hotels and support local cafes and businesses across the state.

“We said we would deliver through Destination 2045 — and that’s exactly what we’re doing.

“In stark contrast, the former Labor Government had a secret plan to cut tourism funding by 95 per cent.”

Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Craig Davidson highlighted the importance of leveraging destination events as key tourism drivers that support dispersal across the state.

“This round highlights the strength of Queensland’s events landscape, with a diverse mix of events that will drive visitation year-round and spread the benefits of tourism across communities, particularly in regional parts of the state,” Mr Davidson said.

“It’s this mix of uniquely Queensland events that really sets our calendar apart, bringing local character to life and creating compelling reasons for visitors to explore more of the State.”

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