investbrisbane.com.au ECONOMIC SERIES APRIL 2014

KEY INFRASTRUCTURE 4 PROJECTS

Focus on Infrastructure Key Projects List New Guide to Hotel Investment BRISBANE ECONOMIC SERIES APRIL 2014

Brisbane is entering an exciting era of grand-scale infrastructure development and this edition takes a look at some of the projects either underway or in the planning stages.

While attention is often concentrated on the more obvious infrastructure projects in the CBD, there is widespread activity happening in the suburbs and across this great city.

All of this, in different ways, affects the lives of Brisbane residents, generates interest among visitors, and importantly, attracts the attention of domestic and international investors who see the huge potential Brisbane has to offer.

Brisbane is at the centre of one of the fastest growing regions in Australia, and we need to ensure we have the necessary provisions in place to support this growth. Brisbane City Council along with the other levels of government and various independent bodies are building the vital infrastructure needed to accommodate more cars on the road, improve public transport, increase flight traffic at , create new community hubs and introduce new planning polices to guide future development. Some of these projects are featured in this edition.

Brisbane is vibrant and friendly ‘new world city’, and I want to do everything I can to protect our unique way of life by ensuring we are proactive in meeting the city’s future demands.

I hope you enjoy reading this special edition of the Brisbane Economic Series.

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk

2 | WELCOME BREAKING NEWS Pages 20-22

CONTENTS

Feature: Infrastructure 4

Brisbane Airport Corporation 6

Port of Brisbane 7

Case Study: Legacy Way 8

Research Centre 10

Brisbane industrial market 11

4 Key Projects 12

New guide to Brisbane’s hotel investment market 14

Choose Brisbane campaign 17

Economic trends for and Australia 18

The Insider: 1 question, 4 experts 19

Breaking News 20

Investment Attraction column 23

Cover Image Legacy Way Project as featured on page 8 CONTENTS | 3 Brisbane’s Changing Landscape AN INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTOR’S PARADISE

If the measure of a city’s infrastructure development can be crudely calculated by the number of cranes on the skyline, there is every reason to believe Brisbane is experiencing a tidal wave of major building projects.

Multi-billion dollars’ worth of major 25 bridges, and resulted in more than 7km infrastructure projects, either under of new road. The Airport Link is Australia’s construction or in the planning stage, are longest road tunnel. rapidly changing the face of Queensland’s These projects were undertaken with capital and this unprecedented building current and future needs in mind. Building surge is creating widespread interest among for the future, where possible, eliminates international and domestic investors. the need for playing an expensive catch-up In this edition of the Brisbane Economic game down the track. Series we look at some of the projects On page 11 of this issue, MacroPlan Dimasi dominating Brisbane infrastructure CEO Michael Tilt writes about the Brisbane development, with contributions coming industrial market and comments on key from some of the major players in this period drivers and global forces affecting the of sustained growth. market. Mr Tilt believes understanding the primary Sound foundations drivers and how they relate to the industrial There is no doubt Brisbane has entered market is imperative for future growth in a new and exciting development phase this sector. and this is building on what has already He predicts globalisation will restructure occurred in recent years. metropolitan and regional Australia, One of the biggest series of developments particularly in terms of freight and logistics, that will produce long-term benefits has and believes that in this context, and involved the road network. on the back of significant infrastructure investment, South-East Queensland is well For example, the Port of Brisbane’s positioned to respond. operations have become more efficient and streamlined with the completion of the Massive projects $385 million Port Connect motorway early last year. The connectivity to major arterial One of the most exciting and long-awaited roads for trade customers and transport new projects is the $1.3 billion parallel logistics partners was greatly improved by runway being undertaken by the Brisbane this project. Airport Corporation (BAC). Commuters, industry and commerce have A decision was taken in 2013 to commit to all benefited from other multi-billion dollar the project with $50 million worth of site projects such as the Gateway duplication works already underway. “The project will lay the (now called the Sir Leo Hielscher Bridges), BAC describes the second runway as Airport Link, and the Clem 7 tunnel. foundation for a sophisticated, a critical component of a multi-billion The $2.12 billion Gateway Upgrade Project dollar investment into capacity-building international-standard, ‘turn was one of the largest bridge and road infrastructure. up and go’ transit system projects in Queensland’s history and was It is being built 2km west of the existing for South-East Queensland. completed in 2010. main runway and when completed by 2020 The $5 billion Airport Link tunneled toll will deliver the capacity needed to meet It is expected to cost about road connects the Brisbane CBD and the predicted continued growth in flights $5 billion. The Queensland the $3.2 billion Clem Jones Tunnel to the in and out of Brisbane. Importantly, more Government is working in East-West Arterial Road which leads to the flights will be able to arrive and depart Brisbane Airport. It was built in conjunction over , reducing noise exposure, partnership with Brisbane City with the Windsor to Kedron section of the particularly at night. Council to deliver the project.” Northern Busway. The new runway will be 3.3km long, 60m wide, and will have more than 12km of Department of Transport and Main Roads The Airport Link and busway projects March-April 2014 newsletter involved 15km of tunneling including the taxiways, plus navigational aids, airfield road (6.7km of twin tunnels), busway infrastructure, and hundreds of hectares of tunnels, and connecting ramps, as well as airfield landscaping.

4 | INFRASTRUCTURE The project will have significant short and $AU30B worth of mining and development The redevelopment area is state-owned long-term benefits. It will deliver a regional projects are now planned or underway, land, generally located between the economic benefit of about $5 billion a year to international gateways via the Port and George St and between by 2035. of Brisbane and the labour and services Alice and Queen Sts. supply market in south-east Queensland. BAC CEO Julieanne Alroe talks about this Around the river bend and a bit further project on page 6 of this issue and points Registration of interest in the project down the river is the site for another major out that, as one of Queensland’s largest closed on March 7 and attracted more project, the redevelopment of the Howard private investors in infrastructure, BAC has than 60 interested parties. Contract Smith Wharves. invested more than $1.3 billion in the past 10 award is expected in early 2015, followed years with a further $2.5 billion planned for shortly after by the construction stage of Situated at below the Story the next decade. the project. The TSRC is expected to be Bridge, the 3.4ha site is a prime riverside A project that is firing up the imagination completed in mid-2018. location that, when redeveloped, will of Brisbane residents, and certainly the provide Brisbane with yet another enticing The Kingsford Smith Drive upgrade is tourist lure characterised by international planning and construction industries, is the another major council project that will flavour and quality. Brisbane Underground Bus and Train (BaT) reduce traffic congestion and improve project. safety in that corridor for all road users, Brisbane City Council has a very clear The BaT project is a proposed new 5km including cyclists and pedestrians. picture of what it wants to see when the north-south tunnel that will deliver rail redevelopment is completed: The road is also classified as a and bus together in a world-first design. primary freight route, and demand for It combines a railway and a busway in transportation of freight on Kingsford Smith a single, double-decked, 15-metre-wide Drive is expected to grow rapidly. tunnel beneath the Brisbane River and Brisbane’s CBD. Construction of stage one of the project, The BaT project will run from Dutton Park which widened part of Kingsford Smith “The Howard Smith Wharves in the south to Victoria Park at Spring Hill in Drive from four to six lanes, was completed will be vibrant, sustainable in mid-2011. the north with new underground stations at and iconic. It will reactivate Woolloongabba, George Street and Roma The preferred option for the remainder Street. of the project involves widening another and re-energise a culturally It will be a critical new link in South-East major section to six lanes, and constructing important precinct. At Queensland’s public transport network, out into a section of the Brisbane River. delivering the combined benefits of Planning will continue throughout 2014. its heart, Howard Smith previous rail proposals and Brisbane City Wharves will provide a high- International recognition Council’s Suburbs 2 City bus project. quality public realm that The project will lay the foundation for a Another world-class development now in sophisticated, international-standard, ‘turn the planning stage, Queen’s Wharf will help celebrates its history and up and go’ transit system for South-East give the city international recognition. prime waterfront location, Queensland. It is expected to cost about The Queensland Government is leaving no $5 billion. The Queensland Government is delivering an inclusive space one in any doubt about what it expects this working in partnership with Brisbane City project to be. for residents, workers and Council to deliver the project. It says: visitors alike.” Geotechnical drilling investigations which began in the Brisbane River in January “Queen’s Wharf Brisbane will be a signalled the start of detailed planning for unique and vibrant new world city the project. development that attracts visitors and investment, reconnects the activity of History making the Brisbane city centre to the river, Transforming the city Expressions of interest will soon be called preserves and celebrates Brisbane’s Brisbane’s landscape is not only changing, from the private sector for a project that heritage, and delivers high-quality it is undergoing major transformation. has attracted a $1.3 billion commitment public spaces.” The city is fortunate to have leaders in from the Australian Government – the The government has called for integrated government, industry, and commerce who single largest regional road infrastructure development proposals from the private are prepared to look to the future and plan investment in Queensland’s history. sector for an area within the CBD that will for predicted demands in services, and The Toowoomba Second Range Crossing include a mix of new uses such as six-star especially in physical infrastructure. (TSRC) will deliver enormous benefits to hotels, retail, restaurant and entertainment Brisbane. The $AU1.7B, 41km road project zones, theatre and convention facilities, and Planning decisions being made now will be shovel-ready in early 2015, driving new open space. are carving out the new face of the city. Brisbane is experiencing a massive and Queensland’s economic growth by creating To entice proposals, the government has 1800 new jobs. exciting development phase. offered a casino licence for Queen’s Wharf It will provide the missing link between to support the area’s transformation into an For further information go to the Surat Basin, where an estimated integrated resort development. brisbanemarketing.com.au

INFRASTRUCTURE | 5 Brisbane’s Changing Landscape THE SKY’S THE LIMIT By Brisbane Airport Corporation CEO and managing director Julieanne Alroe

Brisbane Airport (BNE) is one of Australia’s fastest-growing passenger and freight airports. It is recognised as the centre of the aviation and aerospace industry for Queensland and Australia and a key driver in the long- term growth of the state and national economies. BNE offers passengers direct connections to 28 international and 42 domestic destinations, with overall passenger numbers expected to grow from 21.8 million in 2013 to about 43 million by 2028-29. It is estimated that by 2033-34, BNE will generate a $13.4 billion contribution to the Australian economy, facilitate $7.6 • Tourism facilitated by the airport billion in tourism activity, and support quantified at $3.1 billion in the more than 88,000 jobs Australia-wide. FY13. This is estimated to grow to a national contribution of $7.6 billion Domestic demand is expected to by 2033-34. dominate this growth, with passenger numbers forecast to increase from 16.9 • Forecast flight growth from million in 2013 to 37 million in 2033-34. 227,000 in 2014-15 to more than International passenger demand is 360,000 by 2035. forecast to increase from 4.6 million in • Forecast passenger number 2013 to more than 11.3 million by 2033-34. growth from about 23 million in Simply the (3rd) best With passenger growth, demand on 2014-15 to about 50 million by 2035. in the world infrastructure increases. Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) therefore Providing the same level of continues to invest in airport capacity to • Brisbane Airport has retained capacity as Hong Kong and meet these growth expectations. Singapore airports today. its enviable global ranking as As one of Queensland’s largest private Combined with ongoing investment the 3rd Best Airport in the investors in infrastructure, BAC has in infrastructure and continued invested more than $1.3 billion in the World for airports servicing collaboration with its airline and tourism past 10 years, with a further $2.5 billion between 20-30 million partners to maintain and attract new planned for the next decade. passengers per year in the airline business, BAC continues to make prestigious 2014 Skytrax The most significant investment at BNE a valuable contribution to the growth of the city and state. World Airport Awards. is the construction of a new runway and taxiway system, now underway and costing about $1.3 billion. To put that in Brisbane Airport also ranked perspective, BNE was purchased from 3rd for The Best Airports in the Commonwealth in 1997 for the same Australia/Pacific Region and amount. 3rd for Best Airport Staff in When the new runway opens in 2020, Australia/Pacific Region. it will give Brisbane one of the best runway systems in Australia and deliver The awards are voted for many benefits including: by airport customers from • A regional economic benefit of around the world and this about $5 billion a year by 2035. year the survey garnered 12.8 • Creating 2700 jobs at peak million responses across 110 construction. nationalities of air travellers, • Creating 7800 jobs for the and included 410 airports Brisbane/Moreton region by 2035 worldwide. due to additional capacity.

6 | BRISBANE AIRPORT PORT OF BRISBANE By Port of Brisbane CEO Russell Smith

Development The port’s operations were greatly Australia, supporting up to 15,000 birds, at the Port of enhanced by the completion of the while our port landholdings include Brisbane over $385 million Port Connect motorway in more than 640 hectares of designated the past couple 2013, which improves connectivity to ‘green space’ – internationally-unique of years has major arterial roads for trade customers characteristics for any port.” been spectacular and transport logistics partners. and, according PBPL also runs a Community Grants “The Port of Brisbane can, and will, to chief Program, which will invest more than grow to meet future demand,” Mr Smith executive officer $100,000 into local community and said. “We have strong road and sea Russell Smith, the best is yet to come. environmental management projects connections and we are the first and Continued and accelerated last port of call on the east coast of in 2014. infrastructure development at the port Australia for liner shipping.” A further $250,000 has been and along its landside logistics chains “Led by diversified ongoing trade committed to a five-year program of will not only ensure it is capable of growth, we have a substantial capital four habitat enhancement projects meeting future demand, but will also base for investing in infrastructure.” within, and adjacent to, the port position the port to make best use of all precinct. They will be delivered in expansion opportunities. “Since privatisation, PBPL (Port partnership with Landcare Queensland. of Brisbane Pty Ltd) has invested Timely, targeted, and adequate significant resources into identifying investment in infrastructure is seen Mr Smith was educated in Brisbane and championing sustainable, balanced as the key to the port maintaining and has returned to the city following transport solutions, including freight an enviable reputation in its field of a stellar international career, which rail, which can support Queensland’s operation. included almost five years as chairman growing freight task.” of Euroports. The Port of Brisbane is one of the Mr Smith said PBPL’s trade growth fastest-growing multi-cargo ports Operations at Port of Brisbane and the forecasts predicted that container trade in Australia, annually servicing business environment here compare would double over the next decade and approximately 2500 ships and handling increase four-fold over the next 25 to favourably to other cities in which he more than $50 billion worth of trade, 30 years. has worked. mostly to and from Asia. “Such trade growth needs to be “Port of Brisbane’s trade exposure Almost 95 per cent of Queensland’s serviced through a balanced multi- to major consumer, agricultural and containers and motor vehicles pass modal transport solution,” he said. resource markets is rare in global through the port, along with almost 100 terms,” he said. per cent of Australia’s meat exports. “In South-East Queensland, about 95 per cent of container freight accessing “Queensland has an extremely diverse But this amazing growth is not the the Port of Brisbane is transported result of good luck. Good management trade base and this allows the Port of by road, generating more than three and the investment of substantial Brisbane, as a dynamic multi-cargo million truck movements to the port resources and capital into identifying port, to facilitate opportunities in each year.” sustainable, balanced transport all market sectors – particularly the solutions has been the trademark of Mr Smith said the delivery of a agricultural, project cargo, resource, the operation under the stewardship of sustainable, long-term rail freight and retail markets.” Mr Smith. transport solution was needed to “Our focus, however, remains on prevent worsening freight-induced road The Port of Brisbane was privatised in traffic congestion and future quality-of- ensuring that supply chains to and from 2010 and Mr Smith took over as CEO in life impacts for South-East Queensland the port are developed and enhanced April 2011. It is now a modern, efficient communities. in line with growing demand and in a operation supporting more than 4000 sustainable manner. To do this, we must employees in the maritime sector. “PBPL is also committed to a responsible ensure a balanced modal operation, and approach to the highly-sensitive Early this year, Brisbane became the greatly improved rail access is essential environment of the Brisbane River and only Australian port to host three to deliver this outcome.” adjoining Moreton Bay,” he said. stevedoring operations – Patrick, DP Mr Smith said it helped that Brisbane World, and BCT – all utilising automated “To protect that environment we container handling equipment. operate best-practice monitoring had an open, vibrant business programs for sea grass, mangrove community that encouraged new ideas Stevedoring automation strengthens the health, and air quality, balanced by the and lateral thinking. Port of Brisbane’s status as Australia’s absolute need to provide a safe and fastest-growing multi-cargo container port “Brisbane is the right size to grow efficient gateway to trade.” and ensures world-class infrastructure efficient trade opportunities and deliver that supports the operations of the entire “Our 12-hectare permanent migratory sustained economic prosperity for logistics supply chain. shorebird roost is the largest in eastern Queensland,” he said.

PORT OF BRISBANE | 7 Case Study LEGACY WAY Brisbane is Australia’s new world city.

As employment, population and economic growth continues to rise at record levels, now, more than ever, Brisbane needs a high-quality road network.

Legacy Way is Brisbane City Council’s “More than 6000 staff and workers, for the Australian market to be largest infrastructure project and the sub-contractors and specialists in exposed to international experience, next step in providing a long-term a range of fields have already been new technological skills and innovation. solution to Brisbane’s transport inducted on Legacy Way, delivering “International companies partnering challenges. strong benefits for the local economy.” with local constructors Once open to traffic in 2015, the 4.6km offer a great mix tunnel will provide the missing piece of experience and of motorway between Brisbane’s “It also gives these international expertise, enhancing the western and inner northern suburbs, knowledge and skill base connecting the Western Freeway at companies an opportunity to in our local economy,” Toowong to the Inner City Bypass establish their organisations he said. (ICB) at Kelvin Grove. in new markets, which is “It also gives these Lord Mayor Graham Quirk is eagerly international companies awaiting the tunnel’s opening, attracting investment in our an opportunity confident the project will provide local economy and creating to establish their significant benefits, not only for organisations in new motorists and the transport network new jobs.” markets, which is but also for the local economy. attracting investment in Lord Mayor Graham Quirk our local economy and “Legacy Way is a vital project for creating new jobs.” Brisbane’s transport network and serves as a key part of council’s Once open in 2015, The appointment of Transcity (a joint balanced approach to tackling traffic Legacy Way will almost halve peak venture between Spanish infrastructure congestion in Brisbane, which could hour travel times between the giant Acciona, Italian tunnelling expert cost businesses and residents up to $3 Centenary Bridge and the ICB. It will Ghella and Brisbane-based BMD billion by 2020 if not addressed,” Cr also deliver $10.5 billion in economic Constructions) to deliver Legacy Way Quirk said. benefits from travel time savings, has brought a wealth of international vehicle operating costs, environmental “Not only is Legacy Way going to experience to Brisbane’s construction outcomes and improved road safety. be a critical piece of infrastructure industry. for generations to come, it’s already To find out more, visit Cr Quirk said Transcity’s involvement in playing a crucial role in the economic brisbane.qld.gov.au/legacyway the project had created opportunities fabric of the city.”

8 | LEGACY WAY As part of Australia’s leading real estate brand, Ray White Commercial Queensland is a team of talented professionals who are committed to their field of expertise and driven by the success of their clients.

For expert advice in development sites, commercial & investment sales, office sales & leasing, industrial and retail property contact us today on (07) 3231 2200 or visit our website raywhitecommercial.com.au

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raywhitecommercial.com.au (07) 3231 2200 RESEARCH INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS CENTRE BY THE NUMBERS BRISBANE MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS – COMPLETION DATES AND VALUE

RECENTLY COMPLETED 2010 › 2012

$ 2010 2010 2010 2012 Go Between Bridge Gateway Bridge Clem Jones Tunnel Airport Link Tunnel Duplication $328m $1.88b $3b $4.8b

FUTURE PROJECTS 2015 › 2021

2015 2017 2020 2021 Legacy Way Tunnel Kingsford Smith Brisbane Airport Underground Bus Drive Upgrade Parallel Runway and Train (BaT) $1.5b $650m $1.3b $5b BRISBANE INDUSTRIAL MARKET by MacroPlan Dimasi chief executive officer Michael Tilt

BRISBANE MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS – The industrial property market has, and will continue to have, a catalyst effect on employment growth, enterprise investment, and population growth within Brisbane. COMPLETION DATES AND VALUE Over the past 12 months and on the back Globalisation will restructure metropolitan The local industrial market will continue to of stronger Queensland imports and and regional Australia, particularly in terms align itself with the opportunities presented wholesale trade, there has been increased of freight and logistics. In this context, and around Brisbane’s infrastructure framework. demand for industrial space. on the back of significant infrastructure A classic example of this is demonstrated Brisbane is set to move up another notch investment, South-East Queensland is well around the Australia Trade Coast in terms of its industrial capacity due positioned to respond. precinct on the back of infrastructure to the development of its infrastructure Global freight and logistics chains investment associated with both the support framework, in particular transport are primary city shapers. Currently, Brisbane Airport expansion and further infrastructure. the freight and logistics sector is being Port of Brisbane development. Not only is this infrastructure in place but driven by a number of global forces. Major logistics, transportation depots, it is strategically positioned in relation to These forces include: fabrication and assembly, storage, and a servicing the local and national market. Reduced tariffs range of large industrial land uses continue Future infrastructure investment will be • to be established along, and adjacent to, required to enable the local industrial • Free trade agreements the Pacific Motorway. market to capitalise on opportunities Increased competition • Companies that have traditionally been created at the regional, state, national, and Improved infrastructure based in the inner-Brisbane areas have south-east Asian level. • • E-commerce (internet retail) progressively relocated to positions close to Brisbane’s new transport infrastructure. Key drivers and global forces • Population growth In turn this gives rise to further In a recent publication by MacroPlan As a result of these forces, international metropolitan restructuring across Brisbane, Dimasi’s executive chairman Brian Haratsis, trade is rapidly increasing. Australia’s trade enabling other sectors to move into inner the key drivers of Property Markets to 2020 has a healthy future growth forecast of 129 Brisbane areas that have been left vacated. were examined. per cent by 2025, almost double the global rate (73 per cent), and exceeding Asia (96 New investment in residential, retail, From 2015 to 2030, Australia will showrooms, business support, leisure, be transformed by four primary per cent) over the next 15 years, according to HSBC Trade Connections. and mixed employment centres is now drivers; Ageing and health, Information being seen in what was formerly an technology, Globalisation, and Exports Australia will perform particularly well in industrial area. (AIGE factors), and these drivers the next five years when trade growth will The gentrification of inner-Brisbane will be facilitated by information and hit 7.7 per cent annually, almost four times suburbs such as South Brisbane, communication technology. world growth (2 per cent in those years). West End, Paddington, Teneriffe, Understanding these primary drivers and and Newstead is a classic example of this, how they relate to the industrial market is The gateway with significant white collar employment imperative for future growth in this sector. Traditionally, industrial precincts are now being located in these accessible often represented by large isolated sheds (near CBD) locations. connected by highway infrastructure or a The Brisbane region is the gateway for stand-alone freight rail interchange. There intra and interstate trade, and is a key is limited opportunity for vertical business point for international trade with overseas integration and often limited support for markets. In South-East Queensland, multimodal. population growth, economic activity, and Future industrial precincts are emerging globalisation will continue to be the key as integrated business facilities supporting drivers of industrial demand. vertical business integration. Facilities To order your copy of Beyond the are also being located and designed to Fringe: Understanding, Planning and integrate multiple forms of transportation Profiting from Australia’s Property including air, rail, sea and road. Markets in 2020, written by Brian Haratsis, contact (07) 3221 8166. Over time it is expected that continual industry and sectoral change will require Media Contact: different models for industrial hubs than Michael Tilt, Chief Executive Officer those required today. (07) 3221 8166

BRISBANE INDUSTRIAL MARKET | 11 KEY PROJECTS

Brisbane Airport – Underground Bus 1 SECOND PARALLEL RUNWAY 2 and Train (BaT)

The $1.3 billion parallel runway being The Brisbane Underground Bus and Train undertaken by the Brisbane Airport (BaT) project is a critical link in South-East Corporation is a critical component of Queensland’s public transport network,and a multi-billion dollar investment into according to both the Queensland capacity-building infrastructure. Government and Brisbane City Council is a new concept in public transport. The The project will have significant short and project combines a railway and a busway long-term benefits. It will deliver a regional in a single, double-decked, 15m-wide economic benefit of about $5 billion a tunnel beneath the Brisbane River and year by 2035. Construction of this massive includes a 5.4km north-south tunnel with project has begun with $50 million worth connections running from Dutton Park to of site works already underway. Victoria Park.

12 | KEY PROJECTS Howard Smith Queen’s Wharf 3 Wharves 4 Brisbane

A world-class development now in the The redevelopment of the Howard Smith planning stage, Queen’s Wharf will help Wharves on a prime 3.4ha riverside give the city international recognition with location will provide Brisbane with yet a mix of new uses such as six-star hotels, another enticing tourist lure characterised retail, restaurant and entertainment zones, by international flavour and quality. theatre and convention facilities, and new It will be vibrant, sustainable and iconic. It open space. will reactivate and re-energise a culturally To entice proposals from the private important precinct by celebrating its sector, the government has offered a history and will deliver an inclusive space casino licence for Queen’s Wharf to for residents, workers and visitors alike. support the area’s transformation into an integrated resort development.

KEY PROJECTS | 13 NEW GUIDE TO BRISBANE’S HOTEL INVESTMENT MARKET

An updated Guide to Hotel Investment in Brisbane, outlining areas of opportunity for hotel operators, investors and developers keen to establish a footprint in the city, is now available.

The guide, which includes new research commissioned by Brisbane Marketing, was released by Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk.

Cr Quirk delivered the keynote address Leading economic consultants, AECGroup, and launched the guide at a tourism estimate Brisbane can sustainably absorb breakfast. between 216 to 330 rooms annually to 2022, allowing the city to increase its He joined Queensland’s Tourism, capacity and capture more leisure and Major Events, Small Business and the international visitors arising from markets Commonwealth Games Minister Jann such as China. Stuckey at the event hosted by the Investment activity Property Council since the guide was of Australia and “The guide first published last year Brisbane Marketing has been strong, but and sponsored by provides the significant opportunities HopgoodGanim and latest information still exist. Architectus. on economic In early March the Lord The guide provides the conditions, Mayor opened the CBD’s latest information on first internationally- economic conditions, hotel demand branded, new-build hotel hotel demand drivers, drivers, trading property in 16 years. trading conditions, The 33-storey Four Points and future hotel conditions, and by Sheraton Hotel in Mary supply requirements future hotel supply St is a 246-room property for Brisbane, leaving owned by Felicity investors in no doubt requirements for Hotels and managed by about where and how Brisbane, ” Starwood Hotels and they can make sound Resorts. investment decisions. Brisbane Marketing Due to a shortage in internationally- CEO John Aitken said recent council recognised, full-service hotel room supply, development approval to convert a CBD Brisbane is foregoing about 121,000 office tower into a 239-room hotel was visitors a year and $140 million in visitor another excellent example of the faith expenditure. The shortage is causing the investors were showing in the Brisbane market to defer an estimated 278,000 market. room nights every year – about 14 per cent of current demand. He said Singaporean group Frasers Hospitality was converting the 19-storey This deferred economic benefit is largely property at 80 Albert St in Brisbane’s CBD contributed to the lack of hotel supply into the Capri by Fraser hotel. which in turn is hampering Brisbane’s ability to attract major events and Frasers Hospitality is a global player in the conferences. This lost visitor expenditure hotel and serviced apartment space, with equates to about 1100 jobs and $144 86 properties in 45 key gateway cities and million in economic activity that would more than 15,000 rooms worldwide. otherwise exist. Mr Aitken said the project was a More hotel rooms are therefore required to significant win for Brisbane Marketing’s realise this deferred demand, and enable hotel investment team, who worked the city to procure more international hard to promote the city as an attractive business events and conferences. proposition for potential investors.

14 | NEW GUIDE TO BRISBANE’S HOTEL INVESTMENT MARKET 4.3 $6.1 21.8% million visitor nights billion spent by visitors Chinese visitors numbers growing in 2013 to Brisbane in 2013 per annum since 2008

He said the appointment of a hotel investment manager early last year had SOME STATISTICS AT A GLANCE focused attention on the opportunities available for hotel investors, operators and STRONG DEMAND ROOM TO GROW developers. Brisbane’s visitor economy is Growth in capacity is required to New hotel room supply and the G20 Leaders growing strongly, particularly enable the market to grow demand in key segments like leisure and and attract new visitors to the city. Summit in November is expected to further events travel, and Asian tourism: Brisbane’s hotel market has not develop Brisbane’s growing reputation as kept pace – creating opportunities a tourism, convention, and major events • 4.3 million visitor nights in 2013 for investors, developers and destination and attract visitors from • $6.1 billion spent by visitors operators to plant a flag here: emerging markets such as China. to Brisbane in 2013 • Less than 3 per cent increase Chinese visitors numbers in total room supply added to As the updated Guide to Hotel Investment • growing at 21.8 per cent per the market since 2010 in Brisbane shows, the need for quality hotel annum since 2008 • To meet increasing demand supply in Brisbane will be crucial to meet • 10 per cent increase in leisure from China and leisure visitors anticipated levels of demand. travellers staying in hotels in seeking recognised brands 2013. and premium service, it is The guide is available online at estimated that Brisbane investbrisbane.com.au/hotels. TARGETED INVESTMENT needs an additional 216 to 330 Initiate high-value digital support rooms per year to 2022. activities through a targeted investment by the City

ROBUST TRADING CONDITIONS PRO-BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT Despite weaker trading conditions Private sector investment is experienced in 2013, Brisbane strongly supported by state and continues to be the fourth-best local governments, with active performing market in Australia, support and facilitation for new with healthy trading forecast in investors, including: 2014 and beyond: • Dedicated case managers • 77 per cent average for investors, developers and occupancy rate in 2013 operators looking for hotel • 1.97 million room nights sold opportunities in Brisbane in 2013, representing an • Streamlined approvals by both increase of 1.9 per cent since levels of government for hotel 2009 projects • Average Daily Rate (ADR) • Strong funding commitment increase of 8.1 per cent since in destination marketing to 2009 to 2013 (or average build demand from leisure and annual growth of 2.0 per international visitors cent) to $183 • Funding secured to attract • Revenue per available room greater aviation capacity and (RevPAR) increase of 10.3 new routes into Brisbane per cent since 2009 to 2013 • Lowest payroll taxes in (or average annual growth of Australia. 2.5 per cent) to $142.

14 | NEW GUIDE TO BRISBANE’S HOTEL INVESTMENT MARKET NEW GUIDE TO BRISBANE’S HOTEL INVESTMENT MARKET | 15 YOUR WORLD. OUR EXPERIENCE.

WE USE OUR KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE TO FIND SOLUTIONS TO YOUR IMMIGRATION NEEDS

HOW TO AVOID HAS THE DEPARTMENT OF IMMIGRATION Australian citizens or permanent residents. AND BORDER PROTECTION (DIBP) BEEN Be careful when relying on Australian IMMIGRATION NOTIFIED OF THE CHANGES? birth certificates. Due to changes to the HEADACHES All 457 business sponsors must comply with Australian citizenship laws, not everyone a number of sponsorship obligations. These born in Australia is entitled to Australian Cherie Wright and Ben Willis include notifying DIBP of specific changes citizenship and additional evidence needs Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law to the corporate structure within 10 working to be sighted. days, including circumstances where: With mergers, acquisitions and corporate Just as importantly, the work rights of restructures featuring heavily in recent • The sponsoring entity ceases to exist; temporary visa holders will need to be times, often the impact on Subclass 457 • There is a change of address or contact re-checked from time to time, so it is vital visa workers is overlooked. details; and to have appropriate processes in place to monitor this. • New directors are appointed. RESTRUCTURING? Fragomen can help your company during Corporate restructures, sales or takeovers DIBP will also need to be notified of 457 a corporate restructure. We offer a range can be a turbulent time for organisations visa holders who have ceased employment of services, including specialist visa and it is easy for immigration compliance or changed positions as a result of the assistance, audits and briefing sessions, to be overlooked. Yet changes in a restructure. and reviews of employment contracts, corporate legal structure can significantly policies and procedures. impact Temporary Work (Skilled) subclass IS THERE ANY IMPACT ON ELIGIBILITY 457 visa holders – and their employers. FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCE? FURTHER INFORMATION AND CONTACT Changes in corporate structure may For Australian immigration queries and HAS THE LEGAL ENTITY EMPLOYING also impact 457 visa holders who are assistance, please contact: 457 VISA HOLDERS CHANGED? considering permanent residence. Mr Ben Willis In all cases an assessment needs to be Under the permanent employer sponsored Practice Leader made as to whether the legal entity programs, one of the common pathways Fragomen Australia employing 457 visa holders has changed. to permanent residence requires 457 Email: [email protected] Determining this can be complex and visa holders to have worked for their needs expert advice. sponsoring employer for at least two years. OUR OFFICES For example, if the 457 sponsoring Any changes to the structure or legal employer is taken over by another status of the sponsoring employer within Brisbane business and registers under a different the claimed two years could mean that Tel: +61 7 3004 0500 ABN, or is integrated into another their employment cannot be counted and business and adopts its ABN, employees the two year period re-set. This applies Melbourne with 457 visas will be affected. even if the person is still working in the Tel: +61 3 9613 9333 same position, performs the same duties In such cases, to ensure compliance with and has the same working conditions. Perth the 457 visa conditions, which generally only allow the visa holder to work for A FINAL CONSIDERATION IF ISSUING Tel: +61 8 9436 0333 the approved sponsor (or an associated NEW EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS entity of that sponsor), and the employer Sydney sanction provisions within the Migration Immigration compliance is not restricted to 457 Tel: +61 2 8224 8555 Act, the acquiring organisation needs to visa holders. If new employment contracts are lodge new nominations for sponsored 457 being issued, organisations must ensure that MARN 9256939 visa holders. all employees continue to have permission to work, even those employees believed to be www.fragomen.com

Where we are Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Costa Rica, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States and a network of local advisors in over 140 countries.

FRA14/088 Fragomen Bris Eco Series Advert_FA.indd 1 7/03/14 3:42 PM YOUR WORLD. OUR EXPERIENCE. CHOOSE BRISBANE? ‘TELL US MORE’ SAYS INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS

Twelve months ago international businesses were asked to “Choose Brisbane” as part of a three-year campaign by economic development board Brisbane Marketing. The response has been more than encouraging and Brisbane Marketing could not be happier.

Phase two of the campaign, which University, Professor Max Lu C’EST LA NOUVELLE VILLE positions Brisbane globally as a Brisbane artist Michael Zavros COSMOPOLITE D’AUSTRALIE destination of choice for business • Shanghai news anchor and Asia investment, international students, • WE USE OUR KNOWLEDGE Pacific Screen Awards host Chen Lei and conventions, is now in full swing, AND EXPERIENCE TO FIND Découvrez les raisons pour lesquelles Brisbane, Australie, Andy Greig, Bechtel abritera le sommet 2014 du G20 building on the strong foundation initially • SOLUTIONS TO YOUR established. Catherine Tanna, BG Group CHOOSEBRISBANE.COM • IMMIGRATION NEEDS Choose Brisbane was launched in Hong • Phil Larsen, Halfbrick Studios, Phase 1 - Bus shelter poster artwork Kong, a key target market along with developer of the Fruit Ninja app for Paris Singapore and mainland China. It has • Chinese American artist since been rolled out to London, Spain Cai Guo-Qiang and France. Nansun Shi, President of 2011 APSAs. HAS THE DEPARTMENT OF IMMIGRATION Australian citizens or permanent residents. • HOW TO AVOID An estimated 160 million people across AND BORDER PROTECTION (DIBP) BEEN Be careful when relying on Australian Brisbane Marketing CEO John Aitken the globe have seen the campaign IMMIGRATION NOTIFIED OF THE CHANGES? birth certificates. Due to changes to the said the G20 was one of the campaign HEADACHES All 457 business sponsors must comply with Australian citizenship laws, not everyone online, on billboards, or in print. Digital highlights, demonstrating what Brisbane a number of sponsorship obligations. These born in Australia is entitled to Australian advertising alone has reached well over 2.1 could offer international investors. Cherie Wright and Ben Willis include notifying DIBP of specific changes citizenship and additional evidence needs million people across Asia. Accredited Specialists in Immigration Law to the corporate structure within 10 working to be sighted. “The image of President Obama and other days, including circumstances where: The campaign has been widespread and With mergers, acquisitions and corporate Just as importantly, the work rights of world leaders has been a powerful tool in restructures featuring heavily in recent • The sponsoring entity ceases to exist; temporary visa holders will need to be invasive. It includes more than 3000 the campaign, positioning Brisbane as a times, often the impact on Subclass 457 • There is a change of address or contact re-checked from time to time, so it is vital billboards plus online and print advertising global city,” Mr Aitken said. visa workers is overlooked. details; and to have appropriate processes in place to in high-profile business publications. monitor this. “The campaign reinforces our place • New directors are appointed. RESTRUCTURING? Fragomen can help your company during There have been more than 60,000 as Australia’s new world city and Corporate restructures, sales or takeovers DIBP will also need to be notified of 457 a corporate restructure. We offer a range unique visitors to the campaign website: complements our Brisbane in Asia can be a turbulent time for organisations visa holders who have ceased employment of services, including specialist visa choosebrisbane.com. or changed positions as a result of the Strategy, putting us on the front foot for and it is easy for immigration compliance assistance, audits and briefing sessions, the Asian Century.” to be overlooked. Yet changes in a restructure. and reviews of employment contracts, Brisbane Marketing has also received corporate legal structure can significantly policies and procedures. excellent feedback from Brisbanites “Increasingly, Brisbane is being seen as a IS THERE ANY IMPACT ON ELIGIBILITY impact Temporary Work (Skilled) subclass travelling overseas who have sent pictures rising star and serious player in the Asia 457 visa holders – and their employers. FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCE? FURTHER INFORMATION AND CONTACT Changes in corporate structure may of the Choose Brisbane billboards in Pacific, reinforced by our ownership of For Australian immigration queries and various locations. events such as the Asia Pacific Screen HAS THE LEGAL ENTITY EMPLOYING also impact 457 visa holders who are assistance, please contact: 457 VISA HOLDERS CHANGED? considering permanent residence. Awards and Asia Pacific Cities.” Mr Ben Willis Research by Colmar Brunton showed the In all cases an assessment needs to be Under the permanent employer sponsored Practice Leader initial campaign in Hong Kong had been Mr Aitken said Hong Kong business made as to whether the legal entity programs, one of the common pathways Fragomen Australia seen by almost half the business decision- executives surveyed about the campaign employing 457 visa holders has changed. to permanent residence requires 457 Email: [email protected] Determining this can be complex and visa holders to have worked for their makers surveyed. in May said it had introduced them to needs expert advice. sponsoring employer for at least two years. Brisbane’s commercial and industrial OUR OFFICES Phase 1 - University poster artwork Importantly, for those who saw elements For example, if the 457 sponsoring Any changes to the structure or legal opportunities along with the city’s position of the campaign, it doubled their employer is taken over by another status of the sponsoring employer within Brisbane for China as a leader in research and innovation. business and registers under a different the claimed two years could mean that Tel: +61 7 3004 0500 likelihood to consider Brisbane as an ABN, or is integrated into another their employment cannot be counted and investment opportunity, from 24 per cent “Brisbane’s strong economic growth, the two year period re-set. This applies business and adopts its ABN, employees Melbourne to 47 per cent. political stability, and collaborative with 457 visas will be affected. even if the person is still working in the Tel: +61 3 9613 9333 business environment are also considered same position, performs the same duties In such cases, to ensure compliance with The campaign features a number of very attractive,” he said. and has the same working conditions. Perth the 457 visa conditions, which generally ‘heroes’ including: Tel: +61 8 9436 0333 “As the G20 Leaders Summit nears, only allow the visa holder to work for A FINAL CONSIDERATION IF ISSUING US President Barack Obama and the approved sponsor (or an associated NEW EMPLOYMENT CONTRACTS • Brisbane will be increasingly in the entity of that sponsor), and the employer Sydney other world leaders with the words global spotlight. Choose Brisbane sanction provisions within the Migration Immigration compliance is not restricted to 457 Tel: +61 2 8224 8555 “Brisbane The 2014 G20 Host City” visa holders. If new employment contracts are is all about making the most of that Act, the acquiring organisation needs to Cervical cancer pioneer Professor opportunity for growth.” lodge new nominations for sponsored 457 being issued, organisations must ensure that MARN 9256939 • visa holders. all employees continue to have permission to Ian Frazer For more information visit, work, even those employees believed to be www.fragomen.com • Deputy Vice Chancellor of Queensland choosebrisbane.com Where we are Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Costa Rica, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, Phase 2 - Internet advertising South Africa, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States and a network of local advisors in over 140 countries. appeared on BBC.com CHOOSE BRISBANE? | 17

FRA14/088 Fragomen Bris Eco Series Advert_FA.indd 1 7/03/14 3:42 PM ECONOMIC TRENDS FOR QUEENSLAND AND AUSTRALIA Haydn Calderwood

Australia’s economic performance is expected to improve during the course of 2014, with GDP forecast to rise by 3 per cent this year. Most of that growth will be contributed by rising export volumes for commodities. NAB is also expecting to see better consumer spending and dwelling investment growth in coming quarters. Recent uncertainty and volatility in currency and interest rate markets has seen a rise in demand for information from business owners and executives. Business Markets is NAB’s financial markets business in QLD, which is focused on business, Agribusiness and Health. NAB’s financial markets specialists in Queensland have held over 2,500 conversations in the last six months with business executives. the mining boom will pose particular decrease in mining and energy investment Discussions about interest rates have been challenges for the Queensland economy, in the short term as new construction in the a common topic, with fixed rates and with parts of Queensland activity starting mining sector is completed and fewer fresh interest rate swap levels trending higher as to lag the national average in recent projects commence. the market begins to position for chances quarters. Reflecting the downturn in mining of elevated interest rates over the long The Queensland economy will, however, investment spending, Queensland state term. Similar interest rate movement has benefit from increased activity in other final demand growth (a measure of public been seen during previous RBA rate cycle sectors. The outlook for property and private sector spending) was weaker troughs, identified in the chart below. markets and construction spending for in the December quarter of 2013, resulting infrastructure projects remains positive. in state growth of 0.6 per cent for the year. The big hurdle for the Australian economy The tourism sector should also see solid Exposed to similar challenges, WA has over the next two years will be coming gains in the year ahead, especially if the been softer, where activity has declined by to terms with the structural fluctuations Australian dollar continues to trend lower. 2.7 per cent in the past year. Non-mining brought about by the change in pace The AUD/USD spot exchange rate graph business investment will gradually improve of mining investment. The easing of below shows the RBA’s stance on AUD in Queensland, yet this will not offset the value during recent months. NAB expects the AUD to be in the mid-to-lower 80s against the USD by the end of 2014, which Comparison of current swap rates to rates at the end of previous easing cycles will further support the tourism and export- focused industries.

While NAB sees the domestic economy accelerating over the coming year, the pace of growth will not be strong enough to prevent a rise in the unemployment rate. NAB expects the unemployment rate to rise to a peak of around 6½ per cent in the December quarter of 2014.

For the global economy, NAB expects to see growth of 3.5 per cent in 2014 after 3.0 per cent in 2013, with better growth outcomes in the United States, Europe and Japan. Chinese growth is expected to slow in 2014, but still remain solid at 7.3 per cent, which will underpin Australia’s export growth during the year.

Haydn Calderwood is the Head of Business Markets for NAB in QLD

18 | NAB THE INSIDER Which current infrastructure project will leave the longest-lasting legacy for Brisbane and why?

Kathy MacDermott, Queensland Executive Director, PCA While not advocating one specific infrastructure project, there is no doubt the legacy of Brisbane’s infrastructure pipeline will be both productivity and economic growth benefits. Employment growth opportunities are incentivised by improved connectivity. Properly funded and prioritised transport infrastructure will create new and more productive business attraction for Brisbane. This will provide downstream remuneration for Brisbane City Council in the form of increased rates and taxation revenue.

Bevan Lynch, Chairman, ML Design Legacy Way and the planned upgrading of Kingsford Smith Drive are major milestones in delivering better connectivity to Brisbane as it grows, but for me it will be the Queen’s Wharf precinct in the CBD. It will integrate with Underground Bus and Train, connect the CBD to the river and South Bank, and be followed by the Kurilpa Riverfront Renewal. This urban renewal project will celebrate our history and provide an exemplar for Future Brisbane.

Peter Hyland, Regional Director, Urbis

Brisbane is indeed fortunate to have significant infrastructure projects under construction or committed at this time. Ultimately, I consider that the new parallel runway at Brisbane Airport will be the most significant. It will provide Brisbane Airport with the same capacity as Singapore and Hong Kong airports and give Brisbane the best runway system in Australia. It will enhance our international connectivity and competitive position and truly deliver Brisbane as Australia’s new world city.

Ben Lyons, Office Manager/ Principal Planning, Cardno

The aptly named Legacy Way project is one of the most important committed infrastructure projects for the city. Once completed, it will have an immediate impact on reducing congestion and, more significantly, increasing connectivity. Those outcomes will make a positive and lasting contribution to economic development in the city.

SECTION | 19 BREAKING NEWS

Frasers enters Brisbane hotel scene

Brisbane Marketing is celebrating Cooper, Councillor Adrian Schrinner the entrance of Singaporean group and CEO of Brisbane Marketing, Mr Frasers Hospitality into the Brisbane John Aitken, whose team provided us hotel scene. with much assistance from the time The group has been given we started to look for a property in development approval to convert the Brisbane, right through to the present CBD office tower at 80 Albert St into renovation,” Mr Sum said. a 239-room hotel – Capri by Fraser. Mr Aitken said Brisbane was a tightly- The property was purchased mid-last held market and Frasers was very keen year and is the first Brisbane asset to establish a presence in the city. for Frasers Hospitality, which has 86 “This is a key win for Brisbane properties in 45 key gateway cities and Marketing’s hotel investment team more than 15,000 rooms worldwide. and we continue to work hard to Brisbane Marketing’s investment promote the city as an attractive attraction team worked closely proposition for potential investors,” with Frasers Hospitality to develop he said. a business case for converting the office tower into hotel “We have updated and launched our accommodation. Guide to Hotel Investment in Brisbane which shows international investors The project represents a major the opportunities available here. investment and is seen as another exciting development for Brisbane “The launch attracted significant that will transform a major stretch attention from all sectors and wide of Albert St into a more vibrant media coverage.” environment. Hotel projects under construction in It also represents a big vote of Brisbane include: confidence in Brisbane’s booming SilverNeedle Hospitality is business landscape. • refurbishing and extending “We have updated and The existing 19-storey office building Brisbane’s Chifley Hotel, will be converted into a four or five- converting it from a 150-room to launched our Guide star hotel, featuring a restaurant on a 300-room hotel – one of the the ground level and function rooms largest hotel repositioning projects to Hotel Investment in on the podium levels. in Australia. New hotel room supply and the Brisbane which shows The Wyndham Hotel Group’s TRYP G20 Leaders Summit in November • hotel in Fortitude Valley will add a international investors is expected to further enhance further 65 rooms to supply. the opportunities Brisbane’s growing reputation as a tourism and convention destination • Gambaro Hotel will open in May available here. and attract visitors from emerging 2014, offering 69 rooms on Caxton markets such as China. St. “The launch attracted Frasers Hospitality CEO Choe Peng • Another 48 rooms will be available significant attention Sum said Capri by Fraser would be at Mosaic Hotel in Fortitude Valley open in early 2015. when it opens towards the middle from all sectors and He said it would aim at the of the year. wide media coverage.” e-generation and add to the colour Starwood Hotels & Resorts and vibrancy of the city. Worldwide and Felicity Hotel opened CEO of Brisbane Marketing, “We have to thank the Lord Mayor a 246-room Four Points by Sheraton Mr John Aitken, Graham Quirk, Councillor Amanda hotel in the Brisbane CBD on March 4.

20 | BREAKING NEWS For media contact: Roger Plastow at [email protected] or 0438 231 343 Wi-fi win-win – our legacy before the event

An integrated wi-fi system providing The council is determined to put are also an opportunity to show the free internet in South Bank and the Brisbane on the digital map to further city’s digital credentials to some of will be a legacy of demonstrate to G20 visitors that the world’s most influential leaders. the G20 Leaders Summit but will be Brisbane is Australia’s new world city. The council is also encouraging local available months before the summit is All of the 4000 officials and 3000 cafes, restaurants and hotels to be held in November. media representatives visiting Brisbane part of a broader “Digital Brisbane” by From April, visitors to the Queen for the G20 will be able to access the providing free wi-fi to their patrons. Street Mall, Victoria Bridge and South state-of-the-art public wi-fi. About 250 local businesses, including Bank will be able to jump online to The Queen Street Mall and South the Brisbane Convention and check their email or surf the web Bank will be popular locations for Exhibition Centre, have already put using the council’s wi-fi. Brisbane’s G20 guests and represent themselves on Brisbane’s digital map. Last year almost one million users important aspects of Brisbane’s digital Providing free wi-fi brings benefits to took advantage of the Brisbane City connectivity for visitors. operators by encouraging foot traffic, Council’s free wi-fi hotspots to stay Free wi-fi access is already available enticing customers to stay longer and connected on the go. The latest in 22 outdoor locations across the city spend more, and promoting customer project to have the Queen Street including Brisbane Botanic Gardens, loyalty. Mall and South Bank wi-fi connected King George Square, and New Farm is the next step in creating a digital Businesses offering free wi-fi are Park. The council’s 33 libraries and the Brisbane. encouraged to add their business entire CityCat fleet also offer free wi-fi. details to Digital Brisbane’s free wi-fi This project will allow the 17,000 The wi-fi locations encourage visitors map at digitalbrisbane.com.au people a day who travel over the to spend more time enjoying what Victoria Bridge to remain connected Brisbane has to offer. These hotspots on the go.

BREAKING NEWS | 21 Give me Brisbane Any Day QSM revitalisation

The recently-launched Give locals were proud to share their Bigger, better, brighter, and the best is yet to come me Brisbane Any Day tourism passion,” Mr Aitkin said. for visitors, leaseholders, and investors in the Queen campaign is now in full swing. Street Mall. The campaign, by Clemenger It was designed to encourage BBDO, features experiences that This year will mark the beginning of a new era for the locals and visitors alike to become tested well in research including: iconic mall – an era that will build on its established vocal advocates of the region’s status as Brisbane’s premier economic and retail hub. • climbing the attractions and to share their The revitalisation of the mall will start this year and holiday experiences and photos • shopping for fresh produce will extend over the next few years in well-planned online. at the city markets stages that will minimise interruption to its orderly and Give me Brisbane Any Day is a • high-street shopping in enjoyable experience. catchphrase being heard a lot the open air of the Queen Two major changes will be completed in 2014. The this year as the campaign works Street Mall Visitor Information Centre will relocate to the Regent to spread the word on everything • fine dining by the river Theatre site, and Jimmy’s on the Mall will relocate to the the collective Brisbane region has Café East site. to offer. • great live music scene Almost one million people contact the Visitor Based on the belief that a capital • waterparks and antique Information Centre each year so the increase in space city and a strong region are shopping in Ipswich from about 100 square metres to more than 350 square mutually beneficial, all local • wildlife and mountain bike metres will help staff give even greater service and governments in the Brisbane assistance to visitors. region have united behind the riding in Logan City tourism campaign. • sampling local produce and Operators of the famous Jimmy’s on the Mall restaurant and bar have a development application before horse riding in the Lockyer It is utilising TV, digital, outdoor, Brisbane City Council for the venue to spread over two Valley and print channels, and designed split-level storeys. to showcase an authentic and • glamping and exploring alluring Brisbane region holiday If this proposal is approved the new venue will feature a creeks and rainforests of retractable roof that will provide all-weather dining 24 experience and ignite the the Scenic Rim conversation. hours a day, 365 days a year. • water sports and scenic The campaign encourages locals The Queen Street Mall has developed spectacularly drives around the Somerset to holiday closer to home and over the 32 years since its establishment. It is one of the lures southerners across the • marine life and fresh most successful and iconic retail boulevards in Australia border by showcasing sunny seafood at Stradbroke accommodating more than 1000 retailers catering for holidays. Island about 26 million visitors. Brisbane Marketing, in partnership • kite flying and four-wheel- But Lord Mayor Graham Quirk refuses to let the mall rest on its impressive laurels and is backing the council’s with Tourism and Events driving at the bayside Queensland, local governments, policy of constantly reviewing the role and operation of • snorkelling and dolphin and industry, has earmarked the precinct. feeding at Moreton Island $2.3 million to be spent on the Cr Quirk said the Queen Street Mall Master Plan would campaign this financial year. “The first phase has appeared be refreshed next year after extensive consultation with The campaign was jointly in Brisbane, northern New local residents, shoppers, traders, and business owners. launched by the Mayors of South Wales, Sunshine Coast, “It will be 15 years since the last major design Brisbane, Ipswich, Moreton, and Toowoomba on television, review was conducted so it’s essential we increase Redland, Scenic Rim, Somerset, outdoor, print and online,” Mr pedestrian space and reinvigorate the area to ensure Logan, and Lockyer Valley, and Aitken said. it remains Australia’s most successful shopping mall,” Tourism, Small Business, Major “Give me Brisbane Any Day Cr Quirk said. Events and the Commonwealth showcases the Brisbane region’s All existing leaseholders in the mall have been offered a Games Minister Jann Stuckey. holiday experiences and as much two-year extension to their leases, taking it through to Brisbane Marketing CEO John as possible uses real families and November 2016. Aitken said the new campaign was friends in the TVC and imagery. This will ensure there is no adverse impact during a year in the making and followed “The soundtrack, Holiday, was the G20 Summit in November this year and gives extensive market research, including leaseholders greater certainty and flexibility during the composed and performed by local street interviews, workshops, and master planner process. in-market testing to nail Brisbane’s artist Hannah Karydas and her personality and appeal. band, Eves, with a voiceover by local personality Sofie Formica.” “The research found Brisbane was seen as a vibrant, optimistic, open For further information: and collaborative city of which visitbrisbane.com.au

22 | BREAKING NEWS INVEST BRISBANE Steven Silvester, Brisbane Marketing Director, Investment Attraction

Brisbane’s A totally different type of project, but Building the relationship Changing producing no less excitement, is the based on trust Queen’s Wharf development. This Landscape project will deliver a vibrant integrated Brisbane’s economy is at a new juncture, In this edition of the resort precinct right in the middle of with its development inextricably linked to the growth in the Asia Pacific region. Brisbane Economic the Brisbane CBD that will appeal to It’s time for Brisbane to cultivate and Series we have looked international and domestic travellers foster meaningful relationships with a as well as providing an additional at the numerous major singular focus on building trust with Asia. entertainment precinct for local residents. projects that are Expanding on the cultural exchanges, redefining Brisbane’s Throw in others featured in this issue - educational experiences, and the mutual economic landscape. projects like the BaT Project, the new benefit that comes from long-term Each major initiative Brisbane Airport parallel runway, and successful investments will be key in the future development of Brisbane. or project adds to the Howard Smith Wharves redevelopment - momentum of the economy and builds on and we have a range of developments that For its part, Brisbane Marketing is the city’s reputation as a growing global will deliver for Brisbane across its tourism, developing a platform to build trusting Asian city of significance. investment, and construction industries for relationships in the region through a dedicated plan linking a number of Cities are defined by their forward years to come. complementary economic development momentum and in this edition we have A Focus towards Asia programs. Linking together its Study highlighted the pipeline of projects, in or Brisbane program, Brisbane in Asia around the city, that are certainly building Between April 8 and 11, a major delegation project, Asia Pacific Screen Awards, that momentum. At this moment, it’s not of senior political and business leaders investment attraction activities, and leisure tourism programs, means Brisbane just the volume that’s impressive but the from Australia travelled to Asia to is connecting with the future business quality and strategic importance of the cement stronger trade and investment projects. leaders of Asia. We are also celebrating relationships with South Korea, Japan the Asian culture through the medium of These projects will drive Brisbane’s and China. The momentum building film, fostering meaningful investment links economic growth for many decades in the region for Australia is palpable for the city, and welcoming the region’s to come. In some instances they and if a truly integrous and trustworthy tourists to Brisbane for an experience that have contributed to some of the very relationship can be built, Australia will will leave a positive impression on them positive growth predictions, population benefit from its Asian relationships for for years to come. projections, and employment figures we many decades to come. We all have a responsibility to ensure have seen in recent months. This boosts Coined “Australia Week in China” by this relationship maintains its integrity confidence that Brisbane is building for a Austrade, Australia was definitely on the and inclusiveness or the trust we are slowly building through events such long-term strategic future in a similar way lips of both senior political and business as Australia Week in China could be to the long-term focus many Asian nations leaders from their respective countries. damaged immeasurably. exhibit. This relationship is not starting from zero, These projects continue the exciting far from it in fact, as Asia has travelled, development phase of the city and its studied, traded with, and invested with transformation into a truly serious player us for decades. We see first-hand how If you would like to discuss investment in the Asia Pacific. Asian investment has helped the city opportunities in Brisbane, contact: develop. While not forgetting our good For example, the Toowoomba second friends in Europe and North America - Steven Silvester range crossing may not be a project who still maintain the largest stocks of Brisbane Marketing within the Brisbane city bounds but it will foreign investment in Australia – Asia Director, Investment Attraction open up an estimated $AU30 billion worth looms large on the economic landscape T: +61 7 3006 6239 of Surat Basin mining and development of Brisbane. For that matter, European F: +61 7 3221 6252 projects to South-East Queensland. As a and North American allies will benefit M: +61 434 567 172 major global resources and energy hub from the stability, low geopolitical risk, [email protected] Brisbane companies stand to benefit from and regulatory framework as it chooses www.brisbanemarketing.com.au better access to the region. Brisbane as its base of operations for Asia.

INVEST UPDATE | 23 BRISBANE NEXT ISSUE ECONOMIC JULY SERIES

CONTACT www.investbrisbane.com.au Level 8, Roy Harvey House, 157 Ann Street, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, 4000 PO Box 12260, George Street, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, 4003 Phone: +61 7 3006 6200 Fax: + 61 7 3006 6250 Email: [email protected]

PUBLISHED BY www.investbrisbane.com.au

As a wholly owned subsidiary of Brisbane City Council and the city’s economic development agency, Brisbane Marketing plays a key role in the ongoing evolution and success of our city. We drive economic and social benefits to residents and business by profiling Brisbane globally as Australia’s new world city and as a destination for business investment, export, international students, conventions, tourism, major events, and CBD retail.

Disclaimer: Brisbane Marketing believes that the information contained in this document is accurate at the time of publication. Neither Brisbane Marketing nor any member, employee or other representative thereof undertakes responsibility in any way whatsoever to any person or body (whether a purchaser or reader of this document or not) for any errors or omissions in this document however they may have been caused. Statistic sources can be provided on request.