mall business tourism operatorsurged to get tech-savvy
- More than $3 million to support more than 1,000 tourism operators to boost their tech take up.
- Micro, small and medium-sized businesses can apply for $2,500 rebates.
- The Tourism Business Digital Adaption Program aims to help tourism operators improve visitor experiences and future-proof their businesses.
The Crisafulli Government is backing Queensland's small tourism businesses to lift their tech game with a rebate of up to $2,500.
The Tourism Business Digital Adaption Program has $3 million in rebates available for micro, small and medium-sized tourism businesses to help them stay tech-savvy and ready to attract more tourists.
The program is made up of three components: free online webinars and resources, a Digital Champions network, and a rebate to implement new digital products.
In the first year of the program, more than 400 Queensland tourism operators shared in $945,000 in rebates.
The Crisafulli Government is focused on supporting small businesses and has directed the Queensland Small Business Commissioner to reduce the red tape that suffocated industry under the former Labor Government.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the Crisafulli Government understood the importance of small businesses in the tourism sector.
"These businesses are major employers throughout Queensland, and we want to give them the best opportunity to succeed," Minister Powell said.
"We know innovative digital technologies can pose challenges for small business owners – a challenge we can address with the help of these rebates.
"A key focus identified in our 20-year tourism plan consultation is to improve experience delivery, and digital offerings are an essential aspect of this.
"From better online booking systems to AI tools to develop digital content, I encourage all eligible businesses to apply for a rebate."
Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin said tourism operators had an opportunity to transform their business with cutting-edge technology.
"We are proud to be investing in small and family tourism businesses to help them become even more tech-savvy, attract more business and grow their profits," Minister Minnikin said.
"This is an opportunity for small businesses to take steps to reduce admin burdens whether that's streamlining booking systems, better marketing campaigns and putting more time into delivering great tourism products for customers.
"It's also a great time to take advantage of these rebates and future-proof your business."
Owner of luxury accommodation and micro-events venue Maiala Park Lodge Joe Thompson said they are grateful for the support from the Tourism Business Digital Adaption Program.
"By using the rebate from the Queensland Government, we are going to shoot an incredible video showcasing what we have to offer potential guests and visitors, propelling our business forward in the digital advertising and marketing space," Mr Thompson said.
Cape York Motorcycle Adventures Director Renae Kunda said the program allowed them to target a key demographic of young, tech-savvy digital users.
"With the support of the Tourism Business Digital Adaptation Program we were able to streamline our marketing strategy and improve our customer experience," Ms Kunda said.
"Thank you to the Queensland Government for helping us find a unique way to enhance our online presence and attract more customers."
Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) CEO Natassia Wheeler is proud to be delivering this program.
"This is a great opportunity for small operators to get a leg up and level up their business capabilities, whilst gaining access to a great network of businesses," Ms Wheeler said.
Eligible businesses can apply for a rebate of up to $2,500 until November 2025.
To learn more: https://www.qtic.com.au/tourism-business-digital-adaption-program/
