2.3 TOURISM

The need to improve their tourism industry was raised by 32 RDA committees. These committees cited a lack of tourism infrastructure, accommodation options and an integrated tourism strategy as factors that prevented the development of the industry. Other common concerns included a negative outside perception of the region and a lack of awareness and marketing of the region’s assets. A negative perception of the region was also linked to other key economic and population issues, with many regional plans noting its potential to deter new residents, skilled workers and business investment. This was summarised by Moreton Bay RDA, which noted that “the lack of a regional identity – a sense of place – is impacting on the ability of the region to attract new investment, new jobs, residents, businesses and tourists” (RDA Moreton Bay, 2011, p. 83).