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The Gold Coast

One of the most popular destinations in Australia offering a wealth of attractions, entertainment, facilities and services.

The Gold Coast

Famous for its sun, surf and sand, the City of Gold Coast stretches along 57 kilometres of coastline.

Beyond our beautiful beaches is vast rainforest hinterland with breathtaking scenery - all a short drive from our regional centres.

The Gold Coast is the sixth largest city in Australia and one of the fastest growing regions in our country.

Covering an area of 1400 square kilometres, the city's boundaries extend from just south of Beenleigh to Coolangatta, taking in South Stradbroke Island and part of Moreton Bay and extending west to the hinterland of Mount Tamborine and the Lamington and Darlington Ranges.

Population

City of Gold Coast's current population is 513,954 residents*. This is expected to continue to grow by 13,000 to 16,000 people per year, so that by 2026 City of Gold Coast will be home to over 730,000 residents**.

For more information on Gold Coast City's population and demographics, please visit the Gold Coast Population Profile.

* As of 30 June 2011. Source: ABS, Regional Population Growth, Australia, 2011.
** Based on projected figures. Source: Office of Economic and Statistical Research, Queensland Government population projections, 2011.

Climate

The City of Gold Coast's climate is sub tropical with an average of 300 days of sunshine annually.

  • Average Summer temperatures: 21 to 28 degrees Celsius (69 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit)
  • Average Winter temperatures: 12 to 21 degrees Celsius (54 to 69 degrees Fahrenheit)

Transport

Council has a number of road and transport projects in progress to improve City of Gold Coast’s transport networks, including the introduction of Queensland's first light rail system, commencing operations in 2014. Visit our Traffic and Transport page to find out about traffic management, school transport, cycle and pedestrian networks and public transport.

Environment

While the Gold Coast is one of the fastest growing regions in Australia, it remains one of the most bio-diverse, with bushland, marine and freshwater habitats which are home to more than 700 animal and 1800 plant species.

Attractions and features

City of Gold Coast offers an abundance of attractions, including:

  • 260 kilometres of navigable waterways (nine times more than Venice)
  • Regional Botanic Gardens and more than 2000 parks covering approximately 21,000 hectares
  • major shopping centres, small boutiques, specialty shops and markets
  • restaurants and cafes offering cuisine from around the world
  • evening entertainment from nightclubs, restaurants, clubs, hotels and Jupiters Casino to art galleries, Broadway musicals and theatre
  • a large selection of wildlife and theme parks
  • tropical rainforest hinterland with abundant wildlife and numerous bush walks
  • world-class sporting and recreational facilities
  • a huge range of accommodation from five-star international resorts to camping grounds.

For a full range of attractions refer to the Visit Gold Coast website below.

Major events

City of Gold Coast is fast becoming the sporting and events capital of Australia. The City hosts many national and international events and is preparing to host the 2018 Commonwealth Games - the largest event to be held in Australia this decade. For information on events, visit our 'What's on' Events Calendar.

Key Information

Related Information