Gold Coast Visitor Economy Hits $8.5 Billion

The Gold Coast's tourism sector is delivering impressive results, and the latest figures confirm just how significant the visitor economy is for businesses across our region — including right here in Mudgeeraba.

Fresh data released by Tourism Research Australia has delivered a major boost for the Gold Coast, with 14.7 million visitors contributing $8.5 billion to the local economy in the 2025–26 period — though some reports cite the figure as $8.6 billion. You can read the full breakdown via Experience Gold Coast's official report.

International visitors were a standout performer, with overseas guests spending an average of $1,323 per trip — a 6 per cent increase year-on-year — injecting $1.4 billion into the tourism economy. The figures confirm the Gold Coast's visitor economy is proving resilient despite broader economic pressures.

For Mudgeeraba businesses, these numbers are a timely reminder of the spending power that tourism brings to our region. Ensuring your business is visitor-ready — whether through local exposure, signage, or online presence — has never been more important.

If you'd like support making the most of the tourism opportunity on your doorstep, connect with the Mudgeeraba Chamber of Commerce. We're here to help local businesses grow and thrive — and with visitor numbers like these, now is a great time to make sure you're putting your best foot forward.