• The Crisafulli Government is opening Expressions of Interest for projects seeking recognition under the 45 by 45 initiative.
• 45 by 45 will deliver 45 new ecotourism experiences across Queensland by 2045.
• Eight projects have already been identified, with 37 opportunities remaining in Queensland’s ecotourism pipeline.
• The Crisafulli Government is getting ecotourism moving after Labor approved just three ecotourism projects in a decade. 

The Crisafulli Government is delivering on its commitment to supercharge ecotourism across Queensland, opening Expressions of Interest for projects seeking recognition under the landmark 45 by 45 initiative. 

A key commitment under Destination 2045, the 45 by 45 initiative will deliver 45 new ecotourism experiences across Queensland by 2045, creating more opportunities for visitors to experience the State’s world-class natural environment while supporting regional communities and local jobs. 

The initiative stands in stark contrast to the former Labor Government, which approved just three ecotourism projects in ten years despite Queensland being home to some of the world’s most sought-after natural attractions. 

Eight projects have already been identified under 45 by 45, with Expressions of Interest now opening for the next generation of projects to be considered as part of Queensland’s long-term ecotourism pipeline. 

Projects may be located on public or private land and are expected to align with the principles of low-impact ecotourism, environmental stewardship and visitor experiences that showcase Queensland’s unique natural and cultural values. 

Recognition under 45 by 45 will position projects as part of Queensland’s long-term ecotourism vision and help showcase opportunities that encourage more people to experience the outdoors while protecting the places that make Queensland special. 

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said Queensland’s natural environment was one of the State’s greatest strengths. 

“Queensland’s natural environment is one of our greatest strengths and one of our greatest tourism assets,” Minister Powell said. 

“45 by 45 is about helping more people experience the natural places that make Queensland special, while protecting those places for future generations. 

“We’re getting on with the job of delivering 45 new ecotourism experiences by 2045 and creating more reasons for people to explore Queensland’s great outdoors.” 

Expressions of Interest are open to a broad range of ecotourism proposals, including walking experiences, eco-accommodation, nature-based attractions, cultural tourism opportunities and conservation-focused visitor experiences. 

Expressions of Interest for 45 by 45: Getting Ecotourism Moving in Queensland open today and close on 9 August 2026. For more information – https://www.detsi.qld.gov.au/tourism/tourism-development/45by45 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:    

Current 45 by 45 projects include: 

• The Ngaro Track in the Whitsundays, now open, delivering low-impact, multi-day guided experiences from April 2026;
• Guided hikes on the Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island, offering immersive walking experiences in Tropical North Queensland;
• The Wangetti Trail, a 94-kilometre coastal trail between Palm Cove and Port Douglas;
• The proposed Whitsunday Skyway, featuring a cableway and all-weather summit overlooking Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays;
• The Smithfield Mountain Bike Park expansion, growing the network to more than 85 kilometres of trails of national significance;
• Upgrades to Lake Eacham day-use areas to improve access and visitor facilities;
• Springbrook Masterplan works, including a new Purling Brook Falls suspension bridge and upgraded tracks and parking; and
• The Palm Island Walking Trails project, showcasing the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.