Destination 2045: a new era for Queensland tourism and development
Queensland’s newly released Destination 2045: Delivering Queensland’s Tourism Future lays out a bold 20-year vision to position the state as a global tourism leader. With a goal to double visitor expenditure to $84 billion and grow tourism jobs by 25% by 2045, the strategy presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for property and tourism infrastructure developers.
Of particular interest to the development sector is the anticipated demand for 40,000 additional hotel rooms by 2045. This signals a monumental opportunity to deliver a pipeline of quality accommodation projects across the state — especially in anticipation of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games, which are expected to significantly accelerate visitation.
Spotlight on Ecotourism and Sustainable Design
The 45X45 initiative — targeting 45 new ecotourism experiences by 2045 — represents a major commitment to low-impact, sustainable development. There is strong demand for eco-accommodation, interpretive centres, and infrastructure that integrates sensitively with Queensland’s iconic natural landscapes. Projects like the Thorsborne Trail, Wangetti Trail, and upgrades across national parks such as the Bunya Mountains and Girraween highlight early progress and future potential.
A Connected, Experience-Driven Future
The government’s ambition to make Queensland “Australia’s event capital” is underpinned by major investments in transport and connectivity. The Connecting Queensland Fund will support direct international flights, airport upgrades, and improved regional links — stimulating a wave of complementary development in commercial, hospitality and tourism infrastructure.
With a projected $4 billion events calendar that includes $2 billion dedicated to regional events, developers have a clear signal: venues, entertainment precincts, and urban revitalisation projects will be in high demand leading up to and beyond the 2032 Games.
Growth Beyond the Mainland
Destination 2045 also encourages innovation in areas like agritourism and reef island rejuvenation. There is a green light for visionary projects: bespoke island resorts, agricultural tourism ventures, and niche visitor experiences that make the most of Queensland’s diverse offerings.
With a government-led focus on regulatory streamlining, funding support, and tourism growth, Destination 2045 creates rich ground for development opportunities to create Queensland’s next chapter. For Solve Property Group and our partners, this moment is a clear mandate to plan and build the infrastructure that will support Queensland’s future as a global destination.