Through the establishment and development of the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum of Natural History, he has pioneered a new form of tourism known as palaeotourism, attracting new visitors to regional Australia.

[1] Elliott married his wife Judy in 1986, and the two went on to raise their four children on their large property, Belmont Station, making a living as sheep and cattle graziers.

Given his role in their discovery and preparation Elliott is listed on the scientific papers of several new species including Australovenator,[7][8][9][10][11][12][13] Diamantinasaurus,[14][15][16][17][18][19][20] Savannasaurus,[21][22] Wintonotitan,[23][20] Ferrodraco[24] and Confractosuchus[25] as well as the 54 meter long Snake Creek tracksite.

[26] His contributions to palaeontology include developing a thriving palaeotourism industry in regional Australia, which now accounts for a quarter of Queensland's leisure tourism.

[27][28][29] The Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum of Natural History was founded by David and Judy Elliott, who continue to expand its operations to attract more visitors to regional Australia.