SYDNEY, June 14 (Xinhua) -- The Australian state of Queensland is aiming to be the number one destination for Asian tourists, announcing an extra 33.5 million Australian dollars (24.7 million U.S. dollars) in funding over four years on Tuesday.
Queensland state Tourism Minister Kate Jones said the 'Advance Queensland: Connecting with Asia' program would boost the state's tourist market.
"Our tourism sector is emerging as a major driver of economic growth as more Asian visitors come to Queensland, spending money and creating jobs across the state," Jones said.
"That's why the Palaszczuk Government is taking a focused approach to make Queensland Australia's market leader for the Asian tourism market and to build on the momentum that has seen record visitation numbers to Queensland."
Jones said the new funding would attract Asian tourists by securing more international air routes, building stronger relationship with targeted Asian cities and creating innovative tourism products.
"The 33.5 million Australian dollar Advance Queensland: Connecting with Asia - tourism jobs in the regions package will target key emerging markets in Asia for specific regional Queensland destinations," she said.
"It will capitalise on the success we've already had securing new and additional flights from China and Canada into the Gold Coast, Cairns and Brisbane through the successful Attracting Aviation Investment Fund."
