Some of the largest tourism operators and employers in the Far North will share in $4 million of funding from the state government to support jobs through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the funding – part of a $50 million package announced last month – would support some of the region’s biggest employers to continue to pay workers.

Operators include Quicksilver Cruises, Experience Co, CaPTA and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway along with Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Birdworld Kuranda and Kuranda Koala Gardens Freeman Family.

“These are some of the biggest employers in Cairns. I’m making sure that this funding gets out the door to help safeguard jobs during these tough times,” The Premer said.

“Tourism businesses are doing it tough right now. It’s crucial that we work with the private sector to ensure that they can get back to business soon.”

Tourism Minister Kate Jones said these attractions were vital to the Far North economy.

“Experience Co, Skyrail, Quiksilver, CaPTA – these names are recognised right throughout the world,” Ms Jones said.

“We’re working closely with these operators to ensure workers don’t lose their jobs.

“Our number one priority is to safeguard jobs. That’s why we’ve prioritised the tourism industry’s biggest employers in this fund.

“The funding we’re delivering today must be used for specific purposes, including wages, re-opening of attractions and other supplier costs,” she said.