Despite economic pressures, the Gold Coast tourism industry is proving that paradise remains high on everyone’s travel wishlist.
Fresh data released today by Tourism Research Australia has revealed that an incredible 14.7 million visitors flocked to the glitterstrip throughout the 2025–26 financial year.
Holiday-makers injected a whopping $8.6 billion into the local economy, in a boost for local businesses, hospitality venues, and attractions.
Mayor Tom Tate hailed the milestone, declaring that the numbers cement the Gold Coast’s well-earned place on the world stage.
“We’re continuing to invest in the things that make the Gold Coast such a great place to visit,” Mayor Tom Tate said.
“That confidence is translating into more hotels, more experiences, more aviation routes, and even more reasons for visitors to choose the Gold Coast.”
International markets are leading the charge back to the coastline, with New Zealand retaining its crown as the largest overseas visitor base, drawing 219,000 travellers across the Tasman.
Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific and European markets are experiencing a resurgence, highlighted by a 45 percent surge in Chinese visitors, alongside growth from Korea, Japan, and the UK.
Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn said the data was encouraging for an industry that continues to show resilience in the face of broader global impacts.
“Domestically, we can see the impacts of cost-of-living pressures influence travel decisions, but overall our visitation has remained consistently strong at 14.7 million,” Mr Warn said.
“The data tells us that visitors are continuing to choose the Gold Coast as a top holiday destination, but that they’re prioritising day trips over overnight stays, seeking value, and making more deliberate choices about where they spend across dining, attractions and experiences.
“We’re working closely with our industry partners to deliver cut-through campaigns that convert that strong desire to visit into bookings, longer stays and greater spend across our visitor economy.
“Experience Gold Coast’s recent airfare sale generated more than 42,000 inbound seats to the region, demonstrating strong appetite for a Gold Coast escape.
“This gives us confidence as we look ahead to the launch of the new direct route between Western Sydney International Airport and the Gold Coast.”
