How Much Does Tourism Contribute to the Gold Coast?

By Alice Nichols

The Gold Coast in Australia is known for its beautiful beaches, theme parks, and vibrant nightlife. It’s no surprise that tourism is a significant contributor to the economy of the Gold Coast. Let’s take a closer look at how much tourism contributes to the Gold Coast.

Tourism Industry in Gold Coast

The tourism industry plays a vital role in the economy of the Gold Coast. According to Tourism Research Australia, the Gold Coast received more than 13 million visitors in 2019, with domestic visitors making up 82% of total visitors.

Domestic Tourism

Domestic tourism is a crucial component of the Gold Coast’s tourism industry. In 2019, domestic overnight visitors spent $4.3 billion on the Gold Coast, while day trip visitors spent $1 billion.

International Tourism

International tourists also contribute significantly to the economy of the Gold Coast. In 2019, international overnight visitors spent $1.6 billion on their trips to the Gold Coast.

Employment Opportunities

The tourism industry creates thousands of jobs on the Gold Coast. According to Tourism Research Australia, 66,000 people were employed in tourism-related jobs on the Gold Coast in 2019.

Accommodation and Food Services

Accommodation and food services are among the top employers in the tourism industry on the Gold Coast. In 2019, this sector employed more than 30,000 people.

Tourism-Related Retail and Transport Services

Tourism-related retail and transport services are also significant employers on the Gold Coast. In 2019, this sector employed more than 21,000 people.

Tourism Infrastructure Development

Tourism also drives infrastructure development on the Gold Coast. The government invests millions of dollars every year into infrastructure projects to improve the tourism experience for visitors.

Theme Parks

Theme parks are a significant tourist attraction on the Gold Coast. The government has invested millions of dollars into improving and expanding existing theme parks, such as Dreamworld, Sea World, and Movie World.

Public Transport

The government has also invested in public transport infrastructure to make it easier for visitors to travel around the Gold Coast. This includes light rail services and upgrades to bus services.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tourism is a significant contributor to the economy of the Gold Coast. It creates jobs, drives infrastructure development and generates billions of dollars in revenue every year. With its stunning beaches, theme parks, and nightlife, it’s no wonder that so many people choose to visit the Gold Coast every year.