Hundreds of tourism businesses and city volunteers are upskilling as Brisbane gets ready to welcome international visitors for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 and in the lead up to the 2032 Games.
An initiative of Brisbane Economic Development Agency, the Brisbane Welcomes You program will support local businesses in Brisbane’s visitor economy while building community and industry capacity in the lead up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“We want to build on Brisbane’s reputation as one of the most inviting, friendly and inclusive cities in the world by going that extra mile for visitors to our beautiful city,” said Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.
“If a visitor wants to know the best rooftop bar, the easiest way to get to the Mount Coot-tha Summit or find a late-night shopping precinct this new program will equip our ambassadors with all the information to give our guests the best Brisbane experience.
“This program is open to all businesses who play a role in welcoming and hosting guests in Brisbane as well as passionate tourism and events volunteers with a drive to make their mark on the city.”
Nearly 1200 local volunteers will be part of the program’s first year intake, including city volunteers, hotels and tourism operators to deliver an unrivalled guest experience for visitors.
“Brisbane is set to host its biggest international sporting event in 40 years, since the 1982 Commonwealth Games, when the FIFA Women’s World Cup kicks off later this month,” Schrinner said.
“This presents an opportunity to grow our volunteer community and industry capacity as we prepare to welcome the world for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
Anthony Ryan, CEO of Brisbane Economic Development Agency, said the program would support accelerate the city’s visitor economy.
“This program will have a flow on effect that encourages visitors to stay longer, see more, spend more and ultimately return, delivering dividends for our thriving visitor economy,” Ryan said.
“As more mega events come to the city and international travellers return, we want to see as many local event volunteers and tourism industry businesses as possible through the program.”
