Queenslanders agree on importance of tourism

New research has shown that Queensland communities recognise the importance of the growth of the tourism industry under the Queensland Government's DestinationQ strategy.

A recent state-wide examination of the social impact of tourism on local communities by Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) has found Queenslanders' recognise the importance of this vital industry.

Explaining the findings, Queensland Minister for Tourism Jann Stuckey stated "'Social Indicators 2013' has provided valuable insight into Queenslander's perceptions about tourism and the importance of this industry to our economy.

"Queenslanders overwhelmingly viewed economic impacts, increased regional profile and greater cultural diversity as the main benefits of the industry.

"While 87% of Queenslanders surveyed agreed that festivals and events attracted tourists and raised awareness of the region."

The top three benefits of tourism, according to Queenslanders were:

• Greater cultural diversity (92%)
• Important economic benefits (91%)
• Increased regional profile (86%).

Minister Stuckey added "more than half of Queensland residents surveyed also like the way tourism was developing and want to see it continue.

"The DestinationQ Post-Forum Working Group recommended this research be undertaken in 2013 to compare Social Indicators research first conducted in 2010.

"Interestingly, Queenslanders continue to love having tourists in our state with affability toward tourists growing eight percentage points since 2010.

"TEQ will continue to work in consultation with a range of industry stakeholders, including regional tourism organisations and operators, to provide direction for sustainable tourism development in Queensland.

"As one of the four pillars of the Queensland economy, the ... Government's goal is to reach $30 billion in overnight visitor expenditure by 2020. This means it is important to manage the future impact of the tourism industry by taking into account community feedback and local priorities."

In the year to September 2013, Queensland welcomed close to 20 million visitors who generated around $18 billion in overnight visitor expenditure.

The 2013 Social Indicators research was conducted with 3,850 Queensland participants through an online survey.

The Queensland Social Indicators 2013 factsheets are available online at www.te.queensland.com/research 

Image: White water rafting at Tully Gorge.

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