Queensland’s economy has been buoyed by strong tourism growth over the past three years according to a new report card released at the third DestinationQ forum.

The following are key outcomes since the 1st DestinationQ Forum: 

• Tourism industry has grown by $3.5 Billion

• Tourism Jobs increased by 27,000

• Total Overnight visitors increased 1.2% to 20.1 million.

• 13 Destination Tourism Plans implemented

• National Parks open for business

• Funding doubled to RTOs

• $49.5M in new TEQ funding

• $51M in domestic marketing

• $31.5M in international marketing

• 246 regional events supported

• 106 Major Events supported

Tourism Minister Jann Stuckey said the Government’s strong plan would continue to create a bright future for the industry and build on the growth since the first Forum in 2012.

“The theme at the third DestinationQ Forum is Growing Your Product – Growing our Industry,” Ms Stuckey said.

“I’m confident the 2014 Forum will continue to build on our partnerships, focusing on the practical steps industry and government are taking to achieve our long term vision.

“The DestinationQ Report Card shows us what can be achieved by listening to industry and cutting red tape and regulation in the tourism sector.

“We will continue to make it easier for operators to provide first class experiences for tourists.”