Queensland Declares 2023 The Year of Accessible Tourism

Accessible Tourism

7 Nov

Written By Vacayit

Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk’s Announcement

On November 3, Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk declared 2023 to be the Year of Accessible Tourism, announcing a $12 million investment to ignite change and create opportunities for Queensland tourism operators.

“With ten years to go until we step out on the global stage for the biggest show in the world, we must be ready to showcase our state, our destinations, our unique experiences and services to the world” the Premier said.

Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the Towards Tourism 2032 strategy, and the Olympics and Paralympics is the perfect time to reshape Queensland’s visitor economy, starting with a focus on accessibility, sustainability and First Nations tourism.

“The green and gold runway to the 2032 Games are golden, once-in-a-generation opportunities to reshape Queensland’s visitor economy to welcome the world” said Mr Hinchliffe.

The Palaszczuk Government’s $12 million investment in the 2023 Year of Accessible Tourism includes:

$10 million Accessible Tourism Fund for small to medium tourism businesses to build infrastructure and install technology to assist travellers with a disability
$1 million to raise awareness of accessibility needs and services
$1 million to promote accessible Queensland visitor experiences

Hear Annastacia Palaszczuk’s announcement to Queensland below starting at 8 minutes 30 seconds.

2023 - Queensland Year of Accessibility, Premier’s announcement (starts at 8:30)

The Premier stated that it is essential for Queensland to be a destination for everyone, including people of all abilities.

“Almost one-in-five people have a disability and spend about $8 billion on tourism services annually,”

“Dedicating 2023 to The Year of Accessible Tourism will drive change and create opportunities for both industry and travellers and create a legacy our State can be proud of” the Premier said.

Which tourism operators in Queensland can apply?

Small to medium tourism businesses looking to upgrade their accessibility features, or integrate technology that will enhance the experience of people with disabilities, will be eligible through this fund. The Accessible Tourism in Queensland project is already operational in Brisbane, the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, Fraser Coast, North and Far North and Outback Queensland. Business capability and tourism infrastructure accessibility assessments will expand to Bundaberg, Capricorn, Gladstone, Mackay, Southern Queensland and the Whitsundays.

As a tourism operator tackling the world of accessibility, this is the perfect time to start your journey. The sentiment “progress over perfection” is applicable.

If you are looking to enhance your visitor experience, check out Vacayit. Vacayit can help you create a sensory, engaging and accessible audio guide for your destination. Please email hello@vacayit.com to enquire.

To learn more: listen to DestinationQ session with Zack Alcott, Hailey Brown, Nick Morris and Naomi Miles speak about how tourism experiences and businesses can more accessible.

‘The Business Case for Accessibility’ with Zack Alcott, Hailey Brown, Nick Morris, and Naomi Miles

What can you do today to enhance your web accessibility?

List your experience or venue accessibility information on your website, even if the venue is not very accessible. It is important to list what is accessible at your venue, but also what isn’t accessible, so users can make informed and independent decisions before they visit, or plan accordingly.