Over the past fifty years, the Gold Coast has transformed from a small coastal holiday spot into Australia’s sixth-largest city and the most populous non-capital city in the country. Located within South East Queensland’s growth corridor, it is one of the fastest-growing urban areas in Australia, recording an annual average population growth rate of 1.8% over five years to 2015, surpassing the national average of 1.5%. The city’s Gross Regional Product (GRP) has grown substantially, rising from A$9.7 billion in 2001 to A$15.6 billion in 2008, reflecting a 61% increase.

Tourism remains a cornerstone of the local economy, attracting nearly 10 million visitors annually. Historically, the Gold Coast’s economy relied heavily on population-driven industries such as construction, retail, and tourism. In recent years, the city has diversified its economic base to include marine industries, education, information and communication technology, food production, creative sectors, environmental services, and sports-related enterprises. The City of Gold Coast Council has identified these nine industries as key drivers for long-term economic growth and prosperity.

The city maintains a lower unemployment rate than the national average, standing at 5.6% compared to 5.9% across Australia. Significant development initiatives, such as the declaration of Southport as the central business district (CBD) and a Priority Development Area (PDA), are catalyzing further investment and creating new business opportunities.

Strategic planning through the Gold Coast Economic Development Strategy 2013–2023 provides a roadmap for sustainable growth, focusing on six core areas: innovation, culture, infrastructure, competitive business, workforce development, and international engagement. These measures aim to strengthen the city’s position as a thriving economic hub while supporting its continued growth as a world-class destination for tourism, business, and innovation.