Karlie Brady

Journalist

Struggling tourism operators in regional Queensland can apply for a share in $5 million in grants to redesign their businesses to make it through the coronavirus pandemic.

Tourism Minister Kate Jones said the new adaptation program for regional Queensland announced by the State Government recently would deliver grants of up to $10,000 for tourism operators, heavily reliant on international tourism to change their businesses to target the domestic market.

“International tourism is the bread and butter for many of our tourism businesses throughout the state. That’s why it’s so important that we support these businesses to change their model to make it through the pandemic,” Ms Jones said.

Tourism Port Douglas Daintree Chief Executive Officer, Tara Bennett, said international tourism has traditionally made up 35 per cent of the Douglas visitor market contributing 675,000 room nights from 106,000 visitors pre COVID.

“Inbound reliant businesses can now benefit from support to adapt their product to the domestic market till borders re-open,” she said.

“Many local businesses were able to benefit from the Small Business Adaptation Grants to strengthen their business and anyone who didn’t should consider this current round if they meet the criteria.”

Applicants who can demonstrate considerable loss of income due to the closure of Australia’s borders would be able to apply for up to $10,000.

Ms Jones said before coronavirus, tourism pumped $28 billion per year into local businesses and supported on in 10 Queensland jobs.

“This industry has been hit hard. This package will help operators to pivot to a domestic market or hibernate their business until international borders re-open.

“This program is aiming to assist businesses throughout the state so they can target the domestic market or come back when international tourists return to Queensland.”

For more information, visit dsdti.qld.gov.au/our-work/covid-19-international-tourism-adaptation-grant/