Legislation change set for eco-tourism operators on Fraser

TOURISM operators in national parks such as Fraser Island will soon be able to apply for 30-year leases, with an option for further 30-year renewals.

TOURISM operators in national parks such as Fraser Island will soon be able to apply for 30-year leases, with an option for further 30-year renewals.

National Parks Minister Steve Dickson said this week the government would move to amend the state's conservation laws to deliver the leases, based on a commitment made at major tourism forum Destination Q earlier this year.

"These vital changes will act as a catalyst for strengthening a world-class eco-tourism industry in Queensland, establishing appropriate, environmentally friendly facilities built with natural integration as the most important feature," he said.

Mr Dickson said the Nature Conservation and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2012 would also simplify the permit system for pre-existing infrastructure on national park estate land, such as powerlines, water pipelines and telecommunications towers.

Application processing times for leases are expected to be reduced by about 16 weeks once the legislation is passed.

The change is expected to have a major impact on eco-tourism, which is one of the biggest markets on the Fraser Coast.