Sunshine Coast business leaders and the Queensland Minister for Tourism have highlighted how the region could capitalise on the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Sunshine Coast Business Council hosted a lunch with Glass House MP Andrew Powell, who provided insight into the state’s tourism future and what it means for the area.
SCBC chair Sandy Zubrinich said the event provided an important forum for local business leaders to engage directly with government decision-makers about the future of tourism investment and economic growth in the region.
“The tourism industry is a major economic pillar for the Sunshine Coast, supporting thousands of jobs and businesses,” she said.
“Ensuring we have the right infrastructure, investment and policy settings in place will be critical to not only sustaining but growing the sector.
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“With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, the Sunshine Coast has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attract new investment, enhance our tourism offerings and strengthen our position as a premier visitor destination.
“Now is the time for businesses to engage, plan and prepare to maximise the long-term benefits that will flow from the Games.”
Mr Powell addressed more than 130 business leaders at The Lakehouse at Mountain Creek, outlining the opportunity for the Sunshine Coast to leverage the Games.
“The Olympic Games provides a unique opportunity to enhance tourism infrastructure, improve connectivity and expand visitor experiences, ensuring long-term benefits well beyond the Games,” he said.
“Tourism is already a significant economic driver for the region, with the Sunshine Coast welcoming 4.3 million visitors, generating $4.2 billion in expenditure in 2024.
“This government will deliver continued investment in tourism infrastructure and experiences, driving both job creation and regional development.”
Mr Powell encouraged those in the room to participate in the public consultation for the Queensland Government’s 20-year tourism plan Destination 2045: Queensland’s Tourism Future, which is open for public consultation.
“Businesses, industry leaders and the community are encouraged to participate in the consultation process through regional sessions, online surveys and written submissions to help shape a sustainable and competitive tourism strategy for the Sunshine Coast and Queensland,” he said.
“Regional sessions and expert deep dives will explore key focus areas like ecotourism, investment attraction, tourism experience development, events delivery, access and connectivity and the Brisbane 2032 legacy is an integral part of the process so we encourage the Sunshine Coast community to get on board before consultation closes on February 28.”
Ms Zubrinich highlighted the importance of industry participation in shaping Queensland’s 20-year tourism plan and encouraged local operators to take part in the consultation process.
“The Queensland Government’s Destination 2045 strategy will set the course for tourism over the next two decade,” she said.
“It’s crucial that Sunshine Coast businesses, investors and stakeholders contribute their insights to ensure our region is well-positioned to thrive in a competitive global market.”
A consultation workshop for the tourism plan was held at the Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort on February 21.
Local businesses and industry representatives attended and had their say on the future of tourism in the region.
