The latest “National and International Visitor Survey” results from Tourism Research Australia show visitor spending was up for the year ending September 2024, with visitors generating $7.7 billion for the Gold Coast economy, an increase of 29 per cent from 2019.

A total of 12.4 million people visited the Gold Coast in the year ending September 2024, up from 12.3 million.

“These strong results highlight the broad appeal of the Gold Coast for daytrippers, domestic overnight and international visitors,” says Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn.

“Domestic overnight business travel significantly contributed to these numbers with a record-breaking contribution of 595,000 visitors, a 10 per cent increase compared to the same period [in 2023].

“This shows the city is fast becoming a place for business and not just leisure travel, with great venues to meet, connect and network.”

International visitors contributed $1.2 billion to the economy for the 12-month period, with the Gold Coast welcoming a record number of New Zealanders, with 221,000 visitors.

Other top international source markets were South Korea, UK and China.

“We are excited to see China had considerable growth in the last quarter, with an increase of 17 per cent in visitation, which shows our team has had success connecting with industry, airlines and airport partners to bring more visitors to the Gold Coast,” says Warn.

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate says the results prove the region is a top destination of choice for international visitors and Australians.

“The Gold Coast has so much to offer leisure and business travellers – the latest visitor survey results reflect this,” he says.

“I applaud Experience Gold Coast and the industry for continuing to invest in new events, attractions and experiences that ensure we are always front of mind.”

Photo: iStock/crbellette.