Queensland is setting its sights high with Destination 2045 — a transformative, 20-year roadmap that will shape the future of tourism across the Sunshine State. Spearheaded by the Crisafulli Government, this ambitious plan leverages the momentum of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games to catapult Queensland into a new era of innovation, sustainability, and global tourism leadership.
At its heart, Destination 2045 aims to do more than grow the tourism industry and FNQ is set to benefit. It’s about reimagining what Queensland offers to the world — from world-class events to immersive ecotourism, enhanced connectivity, and regulatory reform to help small businesses thrive.
Key Goals of Destination 2045
45 New Ecotourism Experiences by 2045 (45X45):
A cornerstone of the plan, this initiative will see the launch of 45 new, sustainable tourism ventures including dark sky tourism, low-impact eco-accommodation, agritourism, and more. Early flagship projects include:
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Thorsborne Trail (Hinchinbrook Island)
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Wangetti Trail (North of Cairns)
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Whitsunday Skyway (Airlie Beach)
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Ngaro Trail (Whitsunday Island)
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Upgraded facilities at Lake Eacham and Springbrook National Park
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Making Queensland Australia’s Events Capital:
Through a dedicated new events fund, Queensland will attract top-tier cultural, sports and entertainment events — not only to major cities, but also regional areas.
Connecting Queensland to the World:
The new Connecting Queensland aviation fund will boost domestic and international flight routes, including new links to key markets like India, and improve accessibility across the State.
More World-Class Experiences:
With targeted investment and industry partnerships, Queensland will rejuvenate icons like the Great Barrier Reef islands and roll out new experiences that celebrate the State’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
Home of the Holiday:
A bold, global marketing push will ensure Queensland stands tall on the world stage, inviting more tourists to discover its cities, coasts, outback and rainforest.
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A Big Boost for Operators:
Red tape will be cut and regulation streamlined, empowering tourism operators — especially small businesses — to innovate, expand and succeed.
Economic and Employment Growth
The goal is clear: by 2045, double Queensland’s visitor economy to $84 billion annually and increase tourism-related employment by 25%. With over 270,000 jobs already supported by the industry and 90% of operators being small businesses, the plan provides a serious boost to the State’s economy and workforce.
A Plan Shaped by Queenslanders
Destination 2045 isn’t just top-down policy. It was developed with input from over 1,500 stakeholders, including tourism operators, local councils, grassroots businesses, Traditional Owners, and community members — ensuring it reflects the real needs and ideas of Queenslanders.
The Crisafulli Government’s plan reverses years of neglect under Labor, pledging to restore tourism funding and inject long-term certainty back into the industry.
Premier David Crisafulli calls Destination 2045 a game-changer:
“Destination 2045 is our 20-year plan to make Queensland the leading holiday destination in the nation. We are the home of the holiday — and this strategy will build on our strengths to deliver the best events, ecotourism and experiences.”
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell adds:
“We are backing our industry to grow and innovate, with new funds to support events and connectivity, and streamlined regulation to allow our operators to do what they do best.”
As the 2032 Games approach, Destination 2045 ensures that Queensland’s tourism future is not only brighter — but bolder, more sustainable, and ready to take on the world.
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