A PLAN FOR QUEENSLAND’S FUTURE: Sky’s the Limit for State’s Tourism Revival
The Crisafulli Government has unveiled a bold new era for Queensland’s tourism industry, announcing major expansions from four leading international airlines as part of a $75 million Connecting Queensland Fund — a key pillar of the state’s long-term Destination 2045 plan.
Under the initiative, Qantas, Fiji Airways, Air New Zealand, and China Southern Airlines will all increase their services to Queensland, delivering what Premier David Crisafulli called “a fresh start for the state’s tourism sector after a decade of decline under Labor.”
Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the new routes signal Queensland’s resurgence as Australia’s “home of the holiday.”
“These new flights mean more visitors, more jobs, and more money flowing into local economies. We said we’d boost connectivity — and we’re doing exactly that,” he said.
Boost for the Brisbane Gateway
The largest expansion comes from China Southern Airlines, which will double its Brisbane–Guangzhou services to twice daily from March 30 next year. The airline’s upgraded schedule will add more than 114,000 seats annually, generating an estimated $498 million in visitor spending and creating around 1,600 new jobs.
Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said this marks a milestone moment.
“Double-daily flights will supercharge Brisbane’s connectivity to China and give travellers greater choice when flying between the two regions,” he said.
Gold Coast Takes Off
Qantas will return to the Gold Coast’s international network in June 2026 with a direct Auckland–Gold Coast service, strengthening links with New Zealand and injecting an estimated $85 million into the state economy.
The Gold Coast will also welcome a new Fiji Airways route from Nadi, operating three times a week. The connection is expected to contribute more than $50 million in tourism spending while opening new pathways to North America through Fiji’s Pacific hub.
Queensland Airports Limited CEO Amelia Evans said the expansion cements the Gold Coast as Australia’s most connected airport to New Zealand.
“This partnership with the Queensland Government is about growing regional connectivity, tourism and trade,” she said.
More Seats Across the Tasman
Air New Zealand will boost services between Brisbane and New Zealand by 35,000 seats for the March–October 2026 season. The airline will increase Brisbane–Auckland services to 26 flights per week and Brisbane–Christchurch to eight.
Air New Zealand’s General Manager for Australia, Kathryn O’Brien, said demand for Brisbane travel continues to soar among Kiwi families and visitors.
“We’re seeing more New Zealanders choosing Brisbane for its warm climate, outdoor lifestyle, and world-class attractions,” she said.
Driving Growth Statewide
Queensland Tourism Industry Council CEO Natassia Wheeler said the Connecting Queensland Fund highlights the importance of strategic investment.
“Reliable aviation access is essential for our regions and operators. These partnerships show what can be achieved through long-term collaboration,” she said.
The government says strengthening connectivity is key to unlocking greater prosperity for local businesses — from café owners and restaurants to tourism operators who rely on visitor numbers.
As Queensland prepares to welcome the world in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Crisafulli Government says this investment in air links is just the beginning of its plan to make the Sunshine State more connected than ever.
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