- Crisafulli Government declares the Whitsunday Skyway Project a Prescribed Project, enabling streamlined approvals for the huge eco-tourism attraction.
- The declaration is in addition to Crisafulli Government's $5 million investment in the project, which will generate up to 390 jobs during construction and at least 80 jobs once complete.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy by unlocking new opportunities, driving investment and supporting more jobs across Queensland.
The Crisafulli Government has declared the Whitsunday Skyway Project a Prescribed Project - a crucial step to coordinate and streamline approvals for the exciting eco-tourism project.
Stage One of the new attraction will feature a 1.8km cableway from Airlie Beach to the summit of Conway National Park, a luge-style ride, as well as dining and cultural experiences, special events facilities and bushwalking tracks.
A second stage, including downhill mountain bike trails, is also planned and will be subject to a future feasibility review.
The transformative tourism project is expected to create up to 390 direct and indirect jobs during construction and at least 80 direct and indirect operational jobs, significantly bolstering the Whitsunday regional economy and strengthening North Queensland's position as a premier tourism destination.
The project aligns with the Crisafulli Government's Destination 2045 strategy and is expected to attract over 250,000 visitors annually, after a decade of decline under Labor.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy after Labor's decade of decline by unlocking opportunities for investment and innovation in our incredible region.
Declaring the attraction a Prescribed Project allows the Coordinator-General to streamline approvals and is in addition to the Crisafulli Government's $5 million investment in the project, which was a key tourism election commitment.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the declaration reflected the Crisafulli Government's commitment to supporting transformative projects for Queensland.
"This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase the natural beauty of the Whitsundays in an innovative way, Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
"While the former Labor Government had a secret plan to gut tourism funding, declaring the Whitsunday Skyway Project as a Prescribed Project is a clear message to the people of Queensland that we are serious about delivering infrastructure that creates jobs and drives economic growth.
"By streamlining approvals, we're helping the consortium get shovels in the ground sooner, creating real jobs for Queenslanders and delivering a world-class attraction that will draw visitors from around the globe."
Minister for Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the proposed Whitsunday Skyway reflected exactly the type of bold new tourism investment the Crisafulli Government is backing through Destination 2045.
"When we launched Destination 2045, we said Queensland needed more world-class experiences that give people another reason to visit our State, stay longer and explore more of our regions," Minister Powell said.
"That's why the Whitsunday Skyway was identified as one of the first 45X45 projects because it has the potential to become an iconic new experience in one of Queensland's most spectacular destinations."
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the project will showcase the region's beauty.
"This is game-changing eco-tourism infrastructure and innovation that positions Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays as the Heart of the Reef," Minister Camm said.
Queensland Coordinator-General Gerard Coggan reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the project progresses efficiently.
"Our role is to ensure that all necessary approvals are achieved in a timely manner, providing a single point of whole-of-government coordination and a clear pathway through complex approvals," Mr Coggan said.
"Prescribed Project status enables us to work closely with all stakeholders, including the proponent, local councils, and regulatory bodies, to ensure the project moves forward without avoidable delays."
Australian Adventure Tourism Group Executive Chair Elizabeth Hackett said the declaration was a game-changer for the project.
"Prescribed Project status is a major milestone for the Whitsunday Skyway, and we are incredibly grateful for the Queensland Government's support," Ms Hackett said.
"This status gives us the assurance we need to continue working with our partners and stakeholders to deliver this transformative project."
Once completed, the Whitsunday Skyway will contribute to Queensland's reputation as a world-class tourism destination, offering visitors an unforgettable experience of the region's natural wonders.
