Grants open to boost tourism in the Outback

The Palaszczuk Government has kick-started a new wave of tourism opportunities for Outback Queensland with the first grants under the 2019 Year of Outback Tourism initiative now open.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk opened round one of the $3 million Premier’s Outback Events Program at Parliament today, opening the possibility for new tourism offerings like festivals, conferences and events in the Bush.

“Tourism is a long-term sustainable industry for regional Queensland and while parts of our State are still drought affected, and others have had more rain than they can handle, tourism can carry communities through times of hardship,” the Premier said.

“That’s why in December I declared 2019 Year of Outback Tourism and boosted funding to help lure even more than the 900,000 visitors who are attracted to the region each year.

“Tourism is worth $350 million and supports more than 3,700 jobs in Outback Queensland so it’s vital we back this sector.

“We can help deliver tourists in their droves and that’s why we’re investing in the west.”

The Premier said her government was supporting an expanded calendar of events which appeals to intrastate, interstate and international visitors.

“Through the Premier’s Outback Events Program, we’re offering $3 million in funding, supporting events hosted across 27 eligible Local Government areas,’ Ms Palaszczuk said.

“We’re encouraging local councils, community groups and businesses to create new events or extend existing events, offering funding from $1,000 to $100,000 per application.

“Events could be small or grand in scale – a bold and brash music festival, an epic art installation or even a desert gathering for foodies.

“The new funding will complement the existing $10 million Queensland Outback Tourism Infrastructure Fund, which is building new accommodation, attractions and experiences in the Bush.”

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said now was the time to create lasting memories in the Queensland Outback.

“2019 is the Year of Outback Tourism – a time to celebrate the breathtaking landscapes, resilient communities and larger-than-life characters beyond our journeyed coast,” Ms Jones said.

“Each year, more and more local and international tourists are discovering the fun and far-flung events and festivals of regional Queensland.

“This is an exciting time for the tourism industry in the Outback and the opportunities are endless so I encourage local councils, community groups and businesses to apply and be part of this new wave of tourism offerings.

“We’re working with locals on a strategy that will see tourist numbers continue to grow in years to come and create sustainable jobs for people in the Outback.”

The Premier’s Outback Events Program will be rolled-out across 2019-20, with three available funding rounds in 2019.

Applicants are eligible to apply for up to $100,000 per event.

Each application must be for unique submissions and events must be delivered on or before 31 December 2020.

The deadline for round one applications is 1 April 2019, with applicants notified in May 2019.

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