Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund: Round 1

Queensland’s regions are home to unique experiences and stunning natural beauty. The Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF) is a $20 million program designed to address critical gaps in tourism infrastructure and deliver long-term economic benefits to regional communities.

Fund overview

The RTIF, a complement to the broader Tourism Icons Investment Fund under the Destination 2045 Plan, aims to strengthen Queensland's tourism offerings. We're offering grants to support regional tourism projects that showcase the best of Queensland, including new attractions, upgrades to enhance visitor facilities, eco-lodges, glamping, agritourism, ecotourism, and stargazing adventures.

This fund supports projects that help attract more visitors, encourage longer stays, and increase visitor spending in communities outside of South-East Queensland. By backing innovative and sustainable tourism projects, the program aims to position Queensland as a premier travel destination, stimulate economic activity, and create jobs.

Available funding

The RTIF offers funding of up to $300,000 (ex GST) per project for project outside of South East Queensland. Applications over $300,000 (ex GST) may be considered. Co-contribution is not required, but any project costs exceeding the grant amount must be covered by the applicant.

Funding cannot be used for a project that has commenced but it can be used for different and distinct elements or stages of the project. The applicant must be the legal owner of any assets purchased with the funding.

Key dates

  • Program announcement: Wednesday 10 September 2025
  • Applications open: Wednesday 1 October 2025
  • Applications close: Wednesday 12 November 2025
  • Announcement of successful applicants: February 2026

Note: Dates are indicative only and subject to change.

Eligibility

To be eligible for funding, applicants must:

  • be
    • an established tourism operator in Queensland (more than 12 months), or
    • a new operator, or an operator from another Australian jurisdiction, who can demonstrate active establishment of tourism operations in Queensland with significant tourism benefits to Queensland, and
  • hold a valid Australian Business Number (ABN)
  • be registered for GST
  • be located outside of South East Queensland and operate within one of the eligible Local Government Areas listed in the program guidelines.

Eligible applicants include Local Government Authorities, tourism operators and businesses and not-for-profit organisations.

How to apply

Eligible businesses are encouraged to apply via the Tourism SmartyGrants Grant portal.

Contact

If you have questions about this program, contact us by emailing tourismgrants@detsi.qld.gov.au.