The Palaszczuk Government is joining forces with international airports across Queensland to invest $200 million in the state’s international reopening.
The nation-leading agreement sees the government partnering with Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Brisbane and Cairns Airports to attract more overseas flights into Queensland.
Queensland Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said this was another crucial part of Queensland’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan.
“More flights. More tourists. More tourism dollars. More jobs. That’s what today’s announcement means for regions like the Sunshine Coast,” Mr Dick said.
“This partnership will see our government working with Queensland’s major airports to secure more flights and new overseas routes so we can continue building back better.
“Best of all, our investment is going to safeguard employment across the aviation and tourism sectors.
“It will benefit our airline workers, airport staff, tourism operators, accommodation providers and small businesses.
“This partnership has been made possible through the support of our airports like the Sunshine Coast, and I thank them for working collaboratively with us,” he said.
“Combined with our ‘Days Like This’ tourism campaign announced earlier this week, this $200 million aviation funding boost will ensure brighter days are ahead for the Sunshine State.”
The investment is split between government and the private sector, with $100 million through the Palaszczuk Government’s Attracting Aviation Investment Fund and $100 million from Queensland’s major airports and regional tourism organisations.
It’s expected to deliver more than 5.3 million airline seats per year, generating almost $4 billion.
Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Andrew Brodie thanked the Queensland Government, saying the announcement is great news for Sunshine Coast Airport and the region more broadly.
Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel said international markets are critical for the Sunshine Coast as visitors stay longer and spend more in the region.
“Prior to COVID-19, international travellers represented more than 11 per cent of our market and contributed $285 million to the economy,” Mr Stoeckel said.
“We believe we have the potential to strongly rebuild these markets, with our nature-based tourism offering being what international travellers are likely to be seeking for their next holiday.”
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