Queensland with its incredible biodiversity and natural environments has the advantages that attract visitors from across the globe – Image: Barron Falls/Skyrail Cairns
Destination 2045 is the Queensland Government’s bold 20-year plan to shape the future of tourism and position Queensland/Australia as a global tourism leader. This visionary plan outlines the pathway to double the value of visitor expenditure to $84 billion annually by 2045 and deliver lasting benefits to Queensland communities, according to the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI).
Launched on 2 June 2025, Destination 2045 focuses on creating sustainable tourism experiences that showcase Queensland’s iconic natural wonders, attract world-class events, and improve road, rail, air, and sea connections to the state’s vast regions.
The plan is guided by six key priorities: ecotourism, events, connectivity, experiences, brand, and industry. These priorities are driving efforts to create a stronger, more vibrant tourism industry that supports jobs, businesses, better infrastructure, and richer visitor experiences.
In the first year of delivery, strong foundations have been set, and significant progress has been made across the six pillar areas, says DETSI in a new media release. The Queensland Government has worked closely with industry, delivery partners, regions and the community to foster collaboration, implement innovative solutions, and ensure the resilience of the tourism sector.
Queensland’s best known international holiday destination: The city of Gold Coast – Image: City of Gold Coast/Unsplash
Big wins for Queensland tourism have been identified
- Delivered two key 45 by 45 ecotourism projects, with the Ngaro Track and Thorsborne Trail now open for commercial bookings and visitors.
- Allocated $100 million to secure world-class events, including the Rugby League World Cup 2026 and NRL Magic Round through to 2032.
- Supported the tourism industry with streamlined processes, subsidised training, accreditation programs, and six months of the Tourism Support Hub, assisting all 13 tourism regions.
- Expanded aviation access by securing new international and regional routes and exploring new investment opportunities to grow connections to new exciting markets
- Invested in unique tourism experiences through Round 1 of the Tourism Icons Investment Fund and the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund, benefiting regional communities.
- Cemented Queensland as the Home of the Holiday with world-class global marketing campaigns to attract more visitors.
This progress is paving the way for Queensland to showcase its unique spirit to the world in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games and beyond, says DETSI.
The “Sunshine State” aspires to become the world’s leading ecotourism destination
To achieve this Queensland will leverage its incredible biodiversity and natural environments that already attract visitors from across the globe. Ecotourism is a key competitive advantage for the state, offering significant potential to create future jobs, support local communities, and unlock new opportunities for operators.
Ecotourism is one of the six key priorities of Queensland’s The Destination 45-plan – Image: DETSI
With $446 million in funding committed over four years, Destination 2045 is already delivering real outcomes for Queenslanders and visitors alike. From attracting world-class events to supporting tourism operators and creating sustainable experiences, the first 12 months of delivery have laid the groundwork for a thriving tourism future.
Watch all the progress to date:
NAN/DETSI 04-06-26
You might also like:
AUSTRALIA: What Queensland’s new tourism strategy means for the industry’s future
The state of Queensland in Australia has set out a new long-term vision for tourism, with sustainability and ecotourism at its core. Global certifying organisation EarthCheck’s Stewart Moore and Tourism Tropical North Queensland’s Mark Olsen share their perspectives on the opportunities and responsibilities this more…
