The City of Gold Coast is continuing its push to showcase the region’s natural assets, with a new round of funding set to support sustainable tourism initiatives.
Round two of the city’s Nature-Based Tourism program opens on May 1, offering grants for both small-scale projects under $100,000 and larger developments exceeding that amount. Around $2.5 million will be distributed in this latest funding round.
Mayor Tom Tate said the program aims to help local operators create immersive, low-impact experiences that celebrate and protect the region’s environment and cultural heritage.
The initiative builds on a successful first round in 2025, which saw more than $2.5 million awarded to 23 tourism businesses. Funded projects already underway include whale discovery hubs, eco-tours, wellness experiences and wildlife attractions.
With global demand for nature-based travel on the rise, council says the program will help position the Gold Coast as a leading eco-tourism destination.
Applications for smaller grants close on June 30, while larger project submissions remain open until July 31.
Image source: goldcoast.qld.gov.au