Aerial view of Surfers Paradise Beach and skyline.

Economic outlook

Our growth is strong

Gold Coast’s economy has experienced significant growth positioning it as Australia’s fastest growing city. Forecasting analysis has revealed strong opportunities for development in the region with significant growth potential. 

Gold Coast's strong GRP result is in part driven by high net migration and a favourable employment landscape and strong business investment.

We are experiencing rapid population growth, driven by internal migration from other parts of Australia and international immigration. For the year ending 2024, the Gold Coast’s population grew by 2.29%.  

Read our Gold Coast Economic Update 2025 for more on the Gold Coast's economic performance based on the most recent data release for the year ending 2024.

Two professional people look out of the windows of Q1 at the city below.

A new phase of opportunity

We continue to strive towards a more diverse and robust economy that ensures job creation is linked to our economic future. 

Six priority sectors have been identified for the Gold Coast as having diverse opportunities for future growth and the potential to generate the greatest economic dividends for the region.

Our primary opportunity, lies in fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors to attract greater investment and build a larger workforce, enabling the city to reach its full economic potential.

The 6 sectors are:

  • Health and wellbeing
  • Tourism, sport and major events
  • Building future industries
  • Screen and game production
  • Knowledge economy
  • Education and future skills.