A Story of Impressive Growth
For years, Queensland has been diligently building its reputation in the Indian market, and the effort has paid off. India has firmly established itself as one of the top five international visitor markets for the state. In the year ending September 2025,
Queensland welcomed 77,000 visitors from India, who contributed a significant A$238.9 million to the local economy. This wasn't just a fleeting visit; destinations like the Gold Coast saw a remarkable 35 percent year-on-year surge in Indian arrivals during that period, showcasing a rapidly growing interest. This trend is part of a deliberate strategy by tourism bodies to position the state as the go-to Australian destination for Indian travellers.
More Than Beaches and Cricket
The driving force behind this attraction is a clear shift in traveller preferences. While Australia's world-class nature and beautiful environments have always been a draw, the modern Indian tourist is increasingly seeking immersive, high-energy activities. Queensland delivers this in spades. The state has become synonymous with adventure, offering a bucket-list-worthy itinerary for any thrill-seeker. Experiences range from skydiving over the pristine Whitsunday Islands to navigating the ancient Daintree Rainforest, the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth. This move toward experiential travel is a key reason for the state's rising popularity among a younger, more adventurous demographic.
The Adrenaline Capital
The Gold Coast is the undisputed hub of this adrenaline rush, famous for its collection of world-class theme parks. But the adventure extends far beyond rollercoasters. Tropical North Queensland offers unparalleled opportunities to scuba dive or snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's natural wonders. Other popular activities include white-water rafting on the Tully River, exploring the volcanic tubes of the Atherton Tablelands, and taking guided night walks to see nocturnal wildlife. These experiences are actively marketed by tourism operators who understand that today's traveller wants a story to tell, not just a photo to post.
A Calculated Campaign
This influx of visitors is no accident. It is the result of a coordinated and sustained effort by Australian tourism authorities. Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), along with regional bodies like Brisbane Economic Development Agency and Experience Gold Coast, have launched dedicated campaigns and trade representation in India. These initiatives focus on building relationships with Indian travel agents and directly marketing to high-value travellers looking for unique holidays. For instance, partnerships with major travel companies like Thomas Cook India and MakeMyTrip have been instrumental in creating and promoting bespoke itineraries that highlight adventure and extend the length of stays in regions like Cairns.
Navigating Recent Headwinds
While the long-term growth trajectory has been strong, the most recent data from May 2026 showed a temporary dip in arrivals from India. This decline, which affected all of Australia, has been linked to external factors including disruptions to flight routes through the Middle East and subsequent higher airfares. Despite this, Queensland's tourism bodies remain committed to the market. TEQ is planning its "Queensland Is Calling" roadshow in India for November 2026 to engage with local agents, demonstrating a firm belief in the market's powerful potential once these short-term issues stabilize.
