Tourism islands
Queensland’s island resorts are iconic assets. They underpin jobs and business opportunities in regional Queensland.
Some islands are held privately under freehold tenure or managed by local governments as offshore suburbs. The Queensland Government administers 28 tourism resort leases across 24 islands within the Great Barrier Reef on behalf of Queenslanders. Leases under the Land Act 1994 and other leasing arrangements for tourism purposes can be granted on these islands.
Tourism lease conditions benefit all Queenslanders as they encourage development for tourism purposes. Leases with other purposes, such as a jetty or other infrastructure, may be issued to form an island resort.
Forfeiture of leases
Various factors can influence the commercial success and operational viability of island resorts. Factors may include natural disasters (e.g. cyclones), insurance costs, economic downturns, competing and cheaper international offerings, labour shortages, and the pandemic.
Forfeiting an island tourism lease is only considered if all attempts to meet lease obligations are unsuccessful.
Once forfeited, the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development becomes responsible for managing the site. This continues until the best outcome for the future of the site is determined. The department secures the site (to restrict access) and undertakes make-safe and clean-up works. Technical experts may assess site works to address public safety, health, and environmental risks. They may also advise on remediation and demolition.
Forfeited leases
Great Keppel Island
Great Keppel Island (Woppa) is located on the Capricorn Coast of Central Queensland in the southern part of the Great Barrier Reef. The island is located 15km off the coastal township of Yeppoon and is accessible via boat.
The former lease areas are being managed by the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development following their forfeiture in April 2023.
The department is also continuing to work with the Livingstone Shire Council, the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation and other key stakeholders to manage and progress the delivery of critical common‑user infrastructure for the island.
Subscribe to receive Great Keppel Island notifications. You will receive emails of upcoming on-island works or lease-related matters.
More information
- Read about the Great Keppel Island Concept Master Plan Project.
- Learn about Destination 2045—Queensland's 20 year tourism plan.