BIA promotes industry ahead of Qld State Election

by Boating Industry Association 18 Sep 2024 22:27 PDT

As the Queensland State election draws near, the BIA is working to ensure the contenders are aware of the importance of the marine industry to society and the economy.

Often overshadowed by construction and mining, the boating economy generates significant benefits and BIA is raising awareness of the fact national industry turnover last year reached $10.12 billion, directly employed more than 27,500 people with more than 8250 contractors. With 75 per cent of businesses being family concerns, employing local workers and supporting local communities.

In Queensland boating is a way of life for many and of course that includes a significant boat-based fishing sector. Last year's boating industry statistics for the Sunshine State were:

• $3.93bn turnover
• 14,600 direct & contract employment
• 600+ active boating industry business
• 1,032,000 boat licence holders
• 277,500 registered boats

Queensland is a powerhouse for the boating industry and that includes manufacturing and demand for jobs. The majority of that manufacturing occurs in the Coomera Marine Precinct which has contributed to around 7 per cent per annum economic growth since 2016 for the Gold Coast.

BIA has developed and enjoys a strong relationship with the Queensland Government's marine agencies and acknowledges, and supports the good work of Maritime Safety Queensland. Similar rapport is greatly valued with the likes of Marine Rescue Queensland, Gold Coast Waterways Authority and others.

BIA also acknowledges the collaboration and support of the State Government in areas that include industry's world-leading study into decarbonisation of propulsion systems for the recreational boating sector and the industry's key priorities for the next five years. Priorities that include improved outcomes for recreational and light commercial boating in infrastructure, commercial marina lease policy settings, boating access and participation, government policy and regulatory settings, flood mitigation and pontoon resilience, marine careers and nation-leading work on the promotion of safe, responsible and enjoyable boating.

The BIA is also pointing out the significant opportunities for boating/ marine infrastructure for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, especially in SE Qld. The State election is on 26 October.