Economic outlook
Our growth is strong
Gold Coast’s economy has experienced significant growth positioning it as one of 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. The Gold Coast’s population grew by more than 10% since 2019/20.
Read our State of the City Report 2026 for more on the Gold Coast's economic performance based on the most recent data release for the year to June 2025.
A new phase of opportunity
We have 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.