Queensland tourism operators slam Annastacia Palaszczuk's decision to maintain Sydney ban on visitors

A number of tourism operators across Queensland have slammed Annastacia Palaszczuk's decision to maintain the state's ban on people from Sydney.

After enduring months of coronavirus restrictions, today's announcement by the premier was not the news many were hoping for.

Village Roadshow, which operates five Gold Coast attractions, says today's announcement means the business will pause recruitment of more than 500 staff.

The company's Chief Operating Officer Bikash Randhawa told 9News the move could cripple what's left of their struggling industry and many other businesses on the Gold Coast.

"What we're dealing with is a very small market right now and I'm just not sure how long we can sustain this," he said.

"I am not sure how long this city can sustain this."

Hospitality operators also questioned the need for the government's hardline approach.

Cairns restaurant owner Paul Harris said the restrictions were having a dire effect on customer numbers in the city.

"I don't know what sort of book Palaszczuk's got but I'd love to have a good read of it because it doesn't make any sense to me," he said.

"She's crucifying the economy, she's crucifying Queensland."

Following today's decision, Queensland is now closed to visitors from Victoria, Greater Sydney and all overseas travellers.

Tourism operators say it's more important than ever for Queenslanders to spend locally over the Christmas and summer holiday periods.