July 10, 2018
Southern Queensland Country’s tourism industry has recorded strong growth in the last year.
Data released this week shows the sector now employs about 9400 people and pumps more than $920 million per year into the economy.
Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said Tourism Research Australia Satellite Account data for 2016-2017 showed a 4.7 per cent growth in the number of people employed in tourism in the Southern Queensland Country region.
The data also showed a 6.6 per cent growth in gross regional product.
“I’m proud to say tourism is now worth more than $920 million a year to Southern Queensland Country and employs more than 9000 people,” Ms Jones said.
“This data is proof that we’re on the right track. But I know we can create more jobs in this sector over the next few years.
“We’re spending more on tourism than any Queensland government in history – this includes an extra $180 million in last month’s State Budget to grow this industry.
“Our priorities include working with tourism operators to build new attractions in important destinations like Toowoomba, along with attracting more direct flights and securing more major events for our State.”
- Related article: 1.4m Tourists Visited Region
