Tourism is not just an industry in Townsville North Queensland—it is a vital part of the fabric that binds our communities together. Supporting nearly 9,000 jobs and injecting $1.2 billion annually into our economy through visitor spending, the tourism sector enriches the lives of both locals and visitors alike.

The Townsville North Queensland region encompasses five major regional centres: Townsville and Magnetic Island, Burdekin, Charters Towers, Hinchinbrook, and Palm Island. Together, they are home to nearly 240,000 people and contribute nearly$20 billion in Gross Regional Product to our national economy annually. The Townsville North Queensland tourism sector is the fifth largest employer in the region. 

The industry not only contributes economically to the region, it is also a catalyst for community vitality and is at the forefront of supporting workforce attraction and regional investment. This 2032 Destination Management Plan(DMP) emphasises liveability to enhance residents' and visitors' quality of life, health, and well-being, and provides a collective vision through to 2032.

Townsville, North Queensland, has the potential to lead Australia’s future economic growth as a pioneer in renewable energy and new economy minerals. With its unique natural resources and strengths, the region is well-positioned to become a green energy powerhouse. This transition offers substantial opportunities for tourism, allowing the development of one of Australia’s most sustainable and regenerative tourism destinations. Building on our eco-destination credentials can further enhance our destination brand and attract visitors seeking sustainable travel experiences.

What makes Townsville North Queensland different?
  • Immersive experiences in some of Australia’s best and most diverse landscapes
  • Credentials in sustainability and green energy 
  • Friendly, down to earth locals that embrace the Australian spirit
  • Home of the Great Barrier Reef and the Authentic Australian Outback
  • A thriving events scene across arts, culture and sport
  • Unexpected, authentic and surprising destination

By 2032, Townsville North Queensland will emerge as a model of sustainable tourism and community vitality. Anchored by a commitment to attracting high-value travellers who share our social, environmental, and cultural stewardship values. Our destination has the potential to be Queensland’s fastest growing visitor economies. Building on our status as the the capital of major events for Northern Australia, and leading the nation’s net-zero transition through sustainable fuels and green energy production, as well as eco-accredited and sustainable tourism experiences. Townsville North Queensland will emerge as a growth destination for tourism whilst retaining our authentic brand as a place where visitors can discover, explore and embrace the unexpected.

Key advocacy achievements