A $200m investment in Queensland’s international reopening is expected to attract more overseas visitors, especially from New Zealand, to the Sunshine Coast.
The State Government has joined forces with airports at the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Brisbane and Cairns, in a bid to rebound from the impacts of COVID-19.
Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Andrew Brodie said it was great news for the region.
“Investment in our airport will create jobs for generations to come and provide a much-needed boost to our tourism industry as a result of increased visitation,” he said.
“Direct international aviation connections allow our region to capitalise on business and tourism opportunities.
“We know international visitors stay longer and spend more, and share their experiences with friends and family, which is key to repeat visitation.”
Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel said international markets were critical for the region, as visitors stayed longer and spent more.
“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.”
Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt said the investment was “terrific for the region”.
“The tourism sector is such a big part of the Sunshine Coast economy, and we’re committed to its growth and success,” he said.
“This investment will lead to increased employment opportunities, which will have a positive ripple effect through our communities up and down the coast.”
Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton said it was a boon for tourism and great for the many New Zealanders and citizens of other nations who live and work in the region.
“I can see huge potential for our agriculture sector, helping to attract workers who will contribute to our economy by supporting farmers and businesses because they will be here long term,” he said.
“It’s an air bridge to New Zealand, the Pacific and Asia. It’s an exciting time for connecting our region to the world.”
Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said the investment complemented the local airport, with its new international runway delivered as part of council’s $334 million Airport Expansion Project.
“Coupled with our direct international gateway, this fund will enable the Sunshine Coast to grow its international visitor market and showcase our spectacular region to a global audience in the 10 years leading up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” he said.
“More importantly, however, growing our international visitor markets means jobs for our residents and new supply chain opportunities for our local businesses.”
Read the day’s top Sunshine Coast News stories sent direct to your inbox once daily. Simply go to SUBSCRIBE button at top of this article to register.
Queensland Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said the investment was a crucial part of the state’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,” he 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.
“For the Sunshine Coast, the New Zealand market holds huge potential, and we want to welcome more of our Kiwi friends to this region.
“Combined with our ‘Days Like This’ tourism campaign, 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 State Government’s Attracting Aviation Investment Fund and $100 million from Queensland’s major airports and regional tourism organisations.
