Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund frequently asked questions

How to apply

Before submitting an application review the Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund Guidelines and Terms and Conditions of funding, if successful.

Complete an online application form and submit all required documentation using the online SmartyGrants portal.

What is the closing date for applications?

Applications will close midnight (end of day), Wednesday 12 November 2025.

Dates may be subject to change as required by the department. Changes to these dates can be found on Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund.

Does the applicant need to be based in Queensland?

Yes, applicants must be an established tourism operator within Queensland or can demonstrate active establishment of tourism operations in Queensland with significant tourism benefits for Queensland.

What financial years will the funding cover?

Program funding will be available for approved applicants from the 2025–2026 financial year and conclude in the 2027–2028 financial year.

Program funding will be paid in accordance with the funding agreement milestones for approved applications.

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.

Do I need to register for GST?

Yes. The business or organisation must be registered for GST at the time of application.

Please note that, if successful, applicants registered for GST will not be provided with funding to account for costs directly associated with GST. Note: Recipients registered for GST can claim the GST component for any expenditure that they incur back from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

If your business is not registered for GST visit Registering for GST to find out more.

The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation recommends you seek independent professional advice before registering for GST.

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.

Do I need to provide evidence of matched funding or co-contribution?

Yes. Although matched funding or co-contribution is not a requirement of the grant, ineligible costs and project costs over and above the grant awarded are to be met by the applicant.

You will be required to demonstrate your ability to co-fund any project costs over the awarded grant amount including ineligible costs and should provide evidence of this as part of your application.

When and how will grant payments be made?

Payments will be made in alignment with negotiated and agreed milestones exclusive of GST. A final payment will be made upon submission and acceptance of a final milestone report.

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?

Funding decision announcement will be made in February 2026 however; dates may be subject to change as required by the department.

Changes to these dates can be found on 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.