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 29 tourism resort leases across 25 islands within the Great Barrier Reef on behalf of Queenslanders. Leases and other tenure for tourism purposes can be granted on these islands under the Land Act 1994.
Tourism lease conditions benefit all Queenslanders as they encourage development for tourism purposes. Leases with other purposes, such as a jetty or golf course, 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 Resources 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.
Recently 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 Resources following their forfeiture in April 2023.
Subscribe to receive Great Keppel Island notifications. You will receive emails of upcoming on-island works or lease-related matters.
Double Island
Double Island is located approximately three kilometres northeast of Palm Cove and about 30km north of Cairns.
The former lease area is being managed by the Department of Resources following forfeiture in June 2024.
Subscribe to receive Double 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.
- Read about the Great Barrier Reef Island Resorts Rejuvenation Program.