Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund frequently asked questions
This information contains key information relating to the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF) and should be read in conjunction with the program guidelines , and terms and conditions before completing an application.
How to apply
Applicants should review the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund round 2 guidelines , the Terms and conditions of funding and these FAQs before submitting an application.
Applications and all supporting documentation must be submitted via the online SmartyGrants portal.
What is the closing date for applications?
Applications will close 11:59pm (end of day) Wednesday, 9 September 2026.
Dates may be subject to change as required by the department. Changes to these dates can be found at Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund.
Does the applicant need to be based in Queensland?
Yes, applicants must be an established tourism operator within Queensland or be able to demonstrate active establishment of tourism operations in Queensland with significant tourism benefits for Queensland.
I am considering applying. Can I discuss my application with the department?
The department is available to discuss the eligibility of your application. A request for contact can be submitted to tourismgrants@detsi.qld.gov.au.
Please note advice provided by the department does not constitute an offer of funding and all applications are subject the full assessment process.
Do I need to register for GST?
Yes. The business or organisation must be registered for GST at the time of application.
Grants are subject to Goods and Services Tax (GST). DETSI will include GST on grant payments to recipients. Some grants are considered assessable for taxation purposes, unless exempted by a taxation law. It is recommended grant recipients seek independent professional advice on their taxation obligations or seek assistance from the Australian Tax Office. DETSI does not provide tax advice.
If your business is not registered for GST visit Registering for GST to find out more.
Can I amend my application after submission?
Applications cannot be amended once submitted. It is important to ensure all supporting documentation has been included before submitting an application. However, you must advise the department of any changes that are likely to affect your eligibility.
When and how will grant payments be made?
Payments will be made in alignment with negotiated and agreed milestones.
Milestones will be negotiated with successful applicants and based on the approved project plan. Deliverables for each milestone may include; project deliverables and evidence of expenditure including recipient co-contribution expenditure.
If full expenditure on eligible expenses has not occurred at the time of milestone acquittal, the next instalment amount in the agreement will be reduced accordingly by the dollar amount not acquitted. Funds may be deferred to a future milestone if they are not acquitted.
Will details of successful applicants and grant amounts be made public?
Yes. Applicants should note that broad details of successful proposals, agreed outcomes, project progress and the level of funding awarded may be published by the Queensland Government.
Some of this information may be used and published to promote funded projects.
When will I be notified if my application has been successful?
Application outcomes will be advised in writing in December 2026.
Dates may be subject to change as required by the department. Changes to these dates can be found at Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund.
Why is Southeast Queensland local government areas (LGAs) not eligible for funding?
To complement the broader Tourism Icons Investment Fund under the Destination 2045 Plan, the RTIF seeks to address critical gaps in tourism infrastructure, strengthen Queensland’s tourism offerings and appeal, and deliver long-term economic benefits to regional communities. RTIF is designed to create new or enhanced tourism related infrastructure and experiences, increase visitor expenditure and numbers, encourage longer stays, and improve the dispersal of visitors across Queensland’s regions.
If my project is located on freehold land, do I still need to obtain permits or approvals?
Yes, you may still need to obtain permits or approvals. A project being located on freehold land does not exempt it from regulatory requirements. Depending on the nature and scope of your project, you may require pre-commencement approvals such as planning, environmental and building permits. There are also certifications that may be required for project completion including, electrical, plumbing and safety certifications.
Applicants are encouraged to consult the Local Government Authority to determine what the regulatory requirements are for their project.
What counts as “evidence” of approvals?
Applicants must provide clear and appropriate evidence to demonstrate the status of any relevant approvals required for their project. Acceptable evidence may include:
- confirmation receipt for a submitted application
- written correspondence with the relevant authority regarding the approval requirements and the status of any applications
- any other documentation that verifies the current stage of the approval process.
Incomplete or blank application forms will not be considered sufficient evidence. All supporting documentation must substantiate the level of progress outlined in your application and clearly demonstrate that the approvals process has been initiated or advanced, where applicable.
How can I demonstrate active establishment if I am a new tourism operator?
As a new tourism operator, you can demonstrate active establishment by providing clear evidence that your business is legitimately set up, progressing, and ready (or preparing) to operate. This can be shown through documentation and activities across several key areas:
- Land tenure: Evidence of legal rights or ownership of the land where the tourism business operates.
- Leasehold agreements: Valid agreements showing authorised use or occupancy of premises.
- Branding and marketing development: Proof of business identity and market presence, including brand strategy, logo, marketing plans, and active social media.
Can I submit applications to both the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF) and the Tourism Icons Investment Fund (TIIF)?
Yes. Applicants may apply to both RTIF and TIIF, provided they meet the eligibility criteria for each program.
If I applied in Round 1, can I apply again in Round 2?
Yes, applicants from Round 1 are welcome to apply again in Round 2. If your application was unsuccessful in Round 1, this does not affect your eligibility or assessment in Round 2, as each funding round is assessed independently against the criteria at the time of submission.
Applicants who received funding in Round 1 may also apply in Round 2, provided the new application relates to a different stage or expanded scope of the project. Applications requesting funding for the same activities or scope that have already been funded will not be eligible.
Am I eligible to apply for the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF) if my required approvals are still in progress?
No, you are not eligible. As outlined in the program guidelines, all relevant and necessary approvals must be secured at the time of application. Applications submitted without the required approvals in place will be deemed ineligible for consideration..