Invest Gold Coast

Why Gold Coast

Gold Coast epitomises Australia's international identity, offering a lifestyle like no other, where work and life can truly co-exist.

Our lifestyle brings people to our city. Our opportunities make them stay. 

City of Gold Coast (City) has the advantage of being a single local government entity working across a 1334km² region, and a population of more than 650,000, supporting investors to bring their initiatives to life.   

The value of the city’s economy has more than doubled over the past 20 years and so have jobs, with employment growth outpacing the national average over this period. 

The city’s Gross Regional Product (GRP) of $41 billion accounts for 11% of Queensland’s Gross State Product (GSP), and unemployment sits at 2.3%, almost halving in the past 12 months and sitting well below the rest of Australia at 3.6%.  

The city has expanded its industrial base to accommodate traditional manufacturing alongside uses that will deliver a cleaner and more sustainable future. Over the next 5 years, employment is expected to grow at a rate of 2% annually and GRP of 3% annually. 

How we compare

  • Gold Coast economy is growing at a faster rate than both Sydney and Melbourne. 
  • Population growth on the Gold Coast is growing at double the rate of the Australian average. 
  • Gold Coast has access to nearly double the working population of greater Adelaide (approx. 1.9 million v 900k). 

Discover our investment zones

The city encompasses 5 major investment zones with high levels of economic activity: 

  • Northern Gateway
  • The Broadwater
  • Central Core
  • Southern Gateway
  • The Hinterland. 
Gold Coast aerial view of city skyline, waterways and HOTA (Home of the Arts).

The Gold Coast is brimming with opportunity. We are a young, vibrant city diversifying and maturing from our tourism and construction origins into exciting new sectors including screen, health and sport technology, advanced manufacturing and even building Australia’s first rockets.

Profile image of Tim Baker, Chief Executive Officer, City of Gold Coast.

Tim Baker

Chief Executive Officer, City of Gold Coast


From high growth, to high value

We are prioritising economic sectors that drive a sustainable economic future, are aligned to the Gold Coast’s competitive advantages and protect and enhance our unique lifestyle. Strategic investment will deliver transformational growth and change to our city, enhancing our strong economic position. 

Aerial view of The Spit entrance at The Broadwater.

Location

Gold Coast, the heartbeat of South East Queensland

South East Queensland (SEQ) is Australia's breakthrough international region. With increasing global interest upon the announcement of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, along with unprecedented investment in regional assets, SEQ is primed for investment. 

The Gold Coast is situated in the southeast corner of the state, stretching along 57km of coastline and home to more than 650,000 people. Our city compares in size to Los Angeles and London.  

Sun setting through city skyline buildings.

A performance that can't be ignored

We were a standout national performer throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The city’s Gross Regional Product (GRP) of $41 billion accounts for 11% of Queensland’s Gross State Product (GSP), and unemployment sits at 2.3%, almost halving in the past twelve months and sitting well below the rest of Australia at 3.6%

Factory worker assembling large-scale LED screen.

Future growth

Looking ahead

Our growth over more than 60 years since becoming a city is only the beginning. The Gold Coast offers a range of opportunities, and we warmly welcome enquiries from potential investors and partners. 

Boat cruising through Gold Coast waterways.

Our team is here to help

To discuss how we can support your investment, contact our experienced team.