Queensland Ecotourism Plan 2003-2008 - Tourism Queensland

minister’s FOREWORD
Queensland is a world leader in the provision of high quality, diverse and exciting ecotourism
experiences, with natural areas that are unique and known worldwide. The state is home to
five of Australia’s 14 World Heritage areas, over 450 national parks and a long list of state
forests and marine parks.
Ecotourism is one of Queensland tourism’s fastest growing sectors. Our range of ecotourism
product is expanding at a time when an increasing number of visitors are seeking
environmental tourism experiences.
Part of keeping up with this demand, is the need to manage our resources responsibly to
achieve the right balance between ecological, commercial and cultural sustainability.
The Queensland Ecotourism Plan 2003-2008: Sustainable tourism in Queensland’s natural
areas builds on the achievements of the 1997 Queensland Ecotourism Plan and will continue
to guide ecotourism development in the state. The Queensland Government’s vision is for
Queensland to be the world’s leading ecotourism destination, with government, industry and
the community working in partnership.
The Plan details specific actions reflecting the needs of industry, government and the
community, and it is aimed at protecting and strengthening Queensland’s competitive position
in the national and world ecotourism markets.
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This document is a blueprint for the future of ecotourism in Queensland.
Hon Merri Rose MP
MINISTER FOR TOURISM
21 October, 2002