Queensland’s prehistoric past is set to take centre stage with the signing of a landmark agreement between Dinosaur Experiences Australia (DEA), Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), and the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI). The two-year partnership will drive the development, promotion, and sustainability of dinosaur tourism experiences across the state through to 2027.
This agreement comes at a pivotal time for Queensland, as the state positions itself as a global leader in dinosaur and palaeo tourism. With the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympics on the horizon, the opportunity to inspire visitors, diversify regional economies, and drive long-term growth has never been greater.
“We’re proud to support this initiative, which brings together science, tourism, and regional development,” said Craig Davidson, CEO, TEQ. “It’s a powerful example of collaboration driving impact.”
Led by DEA, the initiative will deliver strategies and actions to grow Queensland’s reputation as a world-leading destination for fossil tourism and prehistoric discovery. The agreement supports the implementation of the Dinosaur Experiences Australia Strategy 2026–2028, aligned with the Outback Queensland Dinosaur Tourism Roadmap and supporting the goals of Destination 2045.
“This agreement is a major step forward in unlocking Queensland’s prehistoric potential,” said Corey Richards, DEA Board Member and General Manager Operations at Eromanga Natural History Museum. “It’s about building legacy, driving regional visitation, and connecting communities through ancient stories.”
Key Initiatives. DEA’s strategy focuses on five high-impact pillars:
- Leadership & Coordination – Driving sector-wide action and partnering with government to shape Outback Queensland’s palaeo tourism future.
- Market Connection – Unlocking innovation through industry collaboration and increasing customer engagement.
- Experience & Brand – Expanding the fossil trail, enhancing visitor journeys, and delivering digital storytelling tools.
- Market Growth – Driving awareness through media, trade, and strategic partnerships.
- Workforce Development – Supporting training and education from schools to tour guides.
“OQTA is proud to work alongside DEA to champion Outback Queensland’s extraordinary fossil heritage,” said Denise Brown, CEO, Outback Queensland Tourism Association. “This partnership strengthens our regional voice, supports local operators, and ensures Outback Queensland remains at the heart of Australia’s prehistoric story.”
“Queensland’s fossil record is unmatched — from dinosaurs to marine reptiles and megafauna,” said Karen Hanna Miller, Executive Officer, DEA. “This agreement allows us to transform that legacy into immersive itineraries and experiences that invite visitors to explore the Outback and discover its ancient wonders.”
The partnership reflects the coordinated leadership and unified branding needed to elevate Queensland’s dinosaur tourism sector to global recognition. It builds on the momentum identified from the recent Parliamentary Inquiry and crystalised through Destination 2045, ensuring the sector delivers on whole-of-Queensland outcomes.
“This is a defining moment for Queensland’s dinosaur tourism sector,” said John Fitzgerald, Chair, DEA. “With coordinated leadership and sustained investment, we can deliver experiences that inspire curiosity and drive regional growth. People travel for difference, and we have an opportunity to showcase Queensland’s globally significant dinosaur offering as distinctly different”.
For media enquiries or partnership opportunities, please contact:
KAREN HANNA MILLER
Executive Officer
Dinosaur Experiences Australia
M 0417 605 289
E [email protected]
