Tourism Icons Investment Fund: Round 1

Queensland has an incredible variety of tourism products, and the Queensland Government has a bold vision to boost product development, including supporting the rollout of iconic new tourism attractions. The Tourism Icons Investment Fund is an $80 million program designed to help create world-class tourism experiences that inspire visitors and deliver lasting benefits to the community.

Fund overview

The Tourism Icons Investment Fund (TIIF) has been designed to support the development of infrastructure, attractions and experiences that exceed expectations, create jobs and help more tourism-related businesses to grow.

The desired outcome is to bring enhanced tourism offerings to the market that increase the length of a visitor's stay in Queensland. By backing iconic projects, this fund delivers more than just tourism infrastructure. We’re creating enduring economic and social benefits for communities across the state. This fund is a key part of the Destination 2045 plan to create jobs, attract new investment, and position Queensland as a world-class tourism destination for decades to come.

Available funding

Funding of up to $5 million (ex GST) is available under Round 1 of the TIIF to eligible applicants and projects.

Available funding is on a 1:1 co-contribution basis with applicants to contribute at least 50% of total eligible project costs (ex GST). For example, the awarding of a minimum grant of $1 million (ex GST) would deliver an infrastructure/experience project of at least $2 million (ex GST) in eligible project costs.

Please note, TIIF funding cannot be used for a project that has already started. However, it can be used for different and distinct elements or stages of a larger project.

Key dates

  • Expressions of interest open: 10 September 2025
  • Expressions of interest close: 8 October 2025
  • Full business case invitations open: 31 October 2025
  • Full business case invitations close: 8 December 2025
  • Funding decision announcement: March 2026

Note: dates are indicative only and subject to change.

Eligibility

To be considered for funding, an applicant must:

  • be
    • an established tourism operator in Queensland, 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
  • hold an Australian Business Number (ABN) and
  • be registered for GST at the time of application.

Preference will be given to tourism businesses with Sustainable Tourism accreditation, or equivalent. Not-for-profit organisations and Queensland Local Government Authorities that provide a tourism service or experience are eligible to apply.

How to apply

Eligible operators 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.