Marine industry delivers high economic benefits

20 December 2010

A report on the Australian marine industry shows Queensland is at the forefront of the industry nationally, but highlights a need for government support to drive further industry growth.

The independent report, produced for peak body Marine Queensland, highlights the marine industry’s important contributions in sectors such as manufacturing, tourism, retail, services and fisheries.

Northeast Business Park CEO Jeff Smith welcomed the report findings and supported the call to government to acknowledge the economic benefits brought by marina developments.

“The marine industry is a significant contributor to regional, state and national economies and we wholeheartedly agree with the report’s recommendations,” Mr Smith said.

“This report reinforces Northeast Business Park’s case to deliver Queensland largest marina development and hope government will embrace the findings.”

Ongoing delays with Government approvals have impacted the park’s ability to proceed this year.

Mr Smith said industry research was vital for enhancing stakeholder awareness of the marine industry’s economic, social and environmental significance.

“We hope decision makers can officially recognise the benefits that will be brought by our development and enable us to pioneer south-east Queensland’s most vibrant marina community,” Mr Smith said.