Tourism Business Capability Subsidy Program launched to strengthen Queensland’s visitor economy
Hinterland tourism businesses can access up to $2000 each to invest in training and accreditation, with the launch of the Tourism Business Capability Subsidy Program - an initiative backed by a $300,000 total funding pool to strengthen the state’s visitor economy.
Delivered by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) and funded by the Queensland Government as part of Destination 2045, the program provides eligible tourism operators with subsidised access to training and accreditation through a panel of nine approved providers.
The funding will give businesses flexibility to choose the training or accreditation that best suits their business needs, capability gaps and stage of growth - while ensuring support is practical, targeted and industry-relevant.
QTIC CEO Natassia Wheeler said the program responds directly to industry calls for meaningful, accessible investment in business capability.
“This program is about backing tourism businesses with real dollars to invest in their people, systems and standards,” Ms Wheeler said.
“Eligible operators can access up to $2,000 to undertake training or accreditation that strengthens how they operate, improves quality and builds confidence for the future.
“With a total funding pool of $300,000, this is a significant investment in lifting capability across the sector.”
Ms Wheeler said offering a choice of approved providers ensures businesses can pursue the training or accreditation that best aligns with their operational priorities, whether that’s sustainability, leadership, digital capability or quality assurance.
“Tourism businesses are diverse, and their capability needs differ across regions and markets,” she said.
“By giving operators choice, we’re ensuring the funding delivers maximum impact at a business level.”
The Tourism Business Capability Subsidy Program aligns with QTIC’s broader focus on strengthening business fundamentals to support workforce development, improve visitor experiences and build long-term resilience – particularly as Queensland prepares for continued growth toward Brisbane 2032 and beyond.
“Strong businesses underpin a strong visitor economy,” Ms Wheeler said.
“Targeted investment in skills and accreditation helps businesses adapt, remain competitive and deliver the high-quality experiences Queensland is known for.”
Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said tourism operators were the backbone of the state’s visitor economy, and the program would deliver practical support to strengthen their skills and operations.
“By investing in training and accreditation, we’re giving operators the tools they need to grow, compete and stay resilient,” Mr Powell said.
“This program lets businesses choose the support that best fits their needs, whether they’re just starting out or looking to take the next step.
“It’s another example of our government working with QTIC to deliver real outcomes through the Destination 2045 vision and support high-quality visitor experiences now and into the future.”
Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Craig Davidson said lifting capability across the tourism sector is essential to maintaining Queensland’s position as a leading global destination.
“We have ambitious goals for Destination 2045 and it’s critical that our industry has the skillset and resources to consistently delivers high-quality experiences across every region,” Mr Davidson said.
“This program gives operators practical support to meet changing visitor expectations and invest in the standards they need to grow with confidence, while contributing directly to the strong reputation Queensland has built on a world stage.”
The Tourism Business Capability Subsidy Program is now open, with full program details and the list of approved providers available on the QTIC website.
For more information, visit: qtic.com.au/tourism-business-capability-subsidy.
