Building the long-term success of tourism is the focus of a partnership agreement signed between the government and the Queensland tourism industry at the close of the second annual DestinationQ forum.

The agreement was the result of an intensive two-day forum at the Gold Coast where almost 400 industry and government representatives debated and agreed on the key directions tourism needs to take to secure long term prosperity.

Minister for Tourism, Jann Stuckey said the forum was a huge success with the industry and government working collaboratively to develop long term strategies for the industry.

“The Newman Government is committed to working with industry to ensure its success in coming decades,” Ms Stuckey said.

“Over the past year we have cemented a strong partnership with industry and set the course for our shared goal to double overnight visitor expenditure by 2020.

“Through this partnership agreement we are thinking long-term and planning for success.

“The delegates at this forum have, through extensive discussion, debate and voting, identified the priority directions the industry needs to take to secure its future.

“The last two days have shown how passionate and committed the tourism industry is and I am confident tourism has a fantastic future in Queensland and will continue to be a strong pillar of our thriving economy.”

The forum developed major directions to focus our efforts in areas like service quality, infrastructure, investment, markets and new product development.

The partnership agreement was co-signed by Premier Campbell Newman and Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) Chair Shane O'Reilly.

QTIC Chief Executive Daniel Gschwind said the DestinationQ partnership reinforced the value of the tourism industry as a major driver of the Queensland economy.

“The Queensland Tourism Industry Council, on behalf of the state's tourism industry, is pleased to re-commit to our partnership and strive for change to position Queensland strongly for the future,” Mr Gschwind said.

“It is critical to secure ongoing investment and development in order to maintain industry momentum and reposition Queensland as Australia's premium tourist destination.

“QTIC believes the DestinationQ partnership will support business to tap into their potential and offer the best possible tourism experience to domestic and international visitors alike.”

The 20-year plan for tourism will be finalised before the end of the year, with the results to feed into the Queensland Plan process.  The full agreement is available at www.destq.com.au