May 14, 2020
The LNP has called on the State Government to scrap its attempted Virgin takeover and instead establish a $200 million tourism marketing fighting fund.
Opposition Leader Deb Frecklington said 18 bidders were now circling the collapsed airline so it was clear the company would be saved by private investors.
“The LNP supports a second airline to keep prices low and protect Queensland jobs,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“But it’s not the role of the government to bailout a bankrupt business and put taxpayers’ money at risk.
“The best way to save Virgin jobs is to get more tourists into Queensland as restrictions lift.
“The private sector will invest in Virgin but the private sector will not invest in the unprecedented marketing blitz that Queensland needs.
“What we urgently need from the State Government is an all-out marketing war to get Australian tourists to take their next holiday in Queensland.
“Our tourism industry was already doing it tough before coronavirus.
“We need to back Brand Queensland, as well as destination marketing, to maximise our tourism muscle and bring visitors to the Sunshine State again.
“Queensland cannot afford to waste another day while our tourism sector is struggling.
“People are planning their first post-coronavirus holidays now and we need them to come to Queensland.
“Our tourism industry is facing the ultimate State-of-origin battle and we need to start fighting for Queensland jobs right now.”
Mrs Frecklington said the campaign should also target New Zealand to ensure Kiwis flock to the Sunshine State when borders reopen.
