Gold Coast - The Excitement Region
The Gold Coast spans across 1402 square kilometres (approximately 541 square miles), featuring 70 kilometres of coastline from South Stradbroke Island to Tweed Heads.
Population
The Gold Coast Statistical District, which comprises Gold Coast City and Tweed Heads, reached a population of 603,000 in August 2008. This figure was deduced from the 2006 Census Count and includes visitors as well as permanent residents. The Region attracts around 18,000 new residents per year
According to the latest Census, the annual growth rate of the Gold Coast Statistical District was 2.7% p.a. between 2001-07 and the Midwood Report now forecasts this rate to be 3.0%p.a. until 2011. The Gold Coast is an extroverted and confident community capturing the dynamic entrepreneurial spirit that has made the city famous and the flamboyant individualism that makes it such a fun place to live and work.
The Coast is the fastest growing part of Queensland and is still a magnet for southern migrants, international visitors and literally millions of holidaymakers every year. From our pristine surf beaches, iconic skyline, kilometres of waterways and canals and sophisticated restaurant and entertainment precincts, the Gold Coast has so much to offer all those who come here to stay or play. The Gold Coast City experienced an all time high in new dwelling approvals - 12,633 new homes in one year. Combined with the booming renovation and commercial development market and surging population.
On top of the growing residential population are the additional10 million overnight and daytrip visitors to the Coast per year who buy everything from fashion and jewellery to food and liquor. The Gold Coast's 43,000 businesses which supply this vibrant marketplace are themselves a large market for business goods and services.
Gold Coast City's climate is sub-tropical with 287 days of sunshine annually.
- Average Summer Temperatures: 19 to 29 degrees Celsius
- Average Winter Temperatures: 9 to 21 degrees Celsius
QUICK FACTS
- Australia's fastest growing city with a growth rate three times the national average.
- More than half a million permanent residents with an annual household expenditure of around $6 billion.
- 4.5 million interstate and overseas tourists a year spend $10.6 million a day.
- Relatively young population with almost 66% under 50.
- $1 billion a year boat building industry.
- Over $745 million dollars of residential construction under way.
- More than 43,000 small businesses.
- The highest per capita retail expenditure in the state.
- Second most popular convention destination in Australia.
- Four universities and more than 100 private and public schools.
- Hosts several major national and international events including the AIGP 300, which generates $50 million.
Transport
The region is served by Gold Coast International Airport, with frequent domestic services from Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Hobart, and International services from New Zealand, Japan and Asia. Brisbane's International Airport also provides links with the USA and Europe.
Gold Coast Airport has undergone refurbishment, which has positioned it as the South Pacific's leading leisure destination. A rail link and Pacific Motorway conects Brisbane to the Gold Coast. Visit our transport page for details of how to get around.
Tallest structure
The spire of Q1, the world's tallest (occupied) residential tower, is 322.5 metres above street level with an observation deck on the 78th floor.
Attractions and features
Gold Coast City is a dynamic city with a wide variety of built and natural attractions including:
- 70 kilometres of beaches with an average water temperature of 22 degrees
- a large broadwater and five major river systems
- major shopping centres as well as numerous boutiques, specialty shops and markets
- more than 500 restaurants and cafes offering cuisine from around the world
- nightlife entertainment from nightclubs, restaurants, clubs, hotels and Conrad Jupiters Casino to Broadway musicals, ballet and theatre
- wildlife parks such as Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, and theme parks including:
- rural hinterland stretching to the west and north of the City encompassing many natural wetlands
- tropical rainforest with abundant wildlife and numerous bush walks
- large sugar cane farms and a wealth of industry in the northern districts of the City
- world-class sporting and recreational facilities
- a huge range of accommodation from five-star international resorts to camping grounds
- the Gold Coast Seaway providing safe ocean access and over 270 kilometres of navigable waterways
Major Developments
Visit our page on Gold Coast Developments
Gold Coast Major Developments
Major events
The Gold Coast is fast becoming the regional sporting and events capital of Australia. The City hosts many national and international events including:
The City also hosts yacht classics, horse races, triathlons and competitions in a variety
