A Boom in the Sunshine State
Queensland is experiencing a remarkable surge in popularity within the Indian travel market. Recent figures paint a compelling picture of this growing connection. In the year leading up to September 2025, the state welcomed 77,000 visitors from India,
who contributed nearly USD 240 million to the local economy. The Gold Coast, in particular, has become a major hotspot, recording a stunning 35% year-on-year increase in Indian arrivals during the same period. This momentum is no accident; it is the result of a focused strategy to welcome one of the world's fastest-growing travel demographics. In a clear signal of intent, the tourism bodies for Brisbane and the Gold Coast have joined forces, appointing in-market representatives in India to strengthen trade ties and make the region more accessible than ever.
The Strategy Behind the Surge
This impressive growth is fuelled by a multi-pronged strategy. Tourism Australia has successfully leveraged the power of celebrity, with brand ambassadors like Bollywood star Parineeti Chopra showcasing her travels across the state and generating massive media interest in India. Beyond star power, a significant push is happening at the industry level. Events like the Australia Marketplace India connect hundreds of Indian travel agents with Australian tourism operators, ensuring they are equipped to sell the Queensland experience. Furthermore, while direct flights from India remain a long-term goal, accessibility has significantly improved. Airlines like Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, and IndiGo offer seamless one-stop connections from major Indian hubs like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru to Brisbane and the Gold Coast, reducing travel friction and opening the door for more visitors.
Beyond the Gold Coast's Glitter
While the world-famous theme parks and golden beaches of the Gold Coast are a major draw, Indian travellers are discovering the incredible diversity Queensland has to offer. In the tropical north, Cairns serves as the gateway to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Here, families and adventurers can snorkel among vibrant coral, explore ancient rainforests, and even engage with Indigenous culture through unique tours that explain the land's traditional heritage. The Whitsunday Islands offer idyllic escapes with pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, perfect for romantic getaways. This mix of high-energy fun and serene natural beauty means the state can cater to a wide range of travel styles.
Brisbane's Rising Appeal
Queensland’s capital, Brisbane, is also emerging as a must-visit destination. The city offers a relaxed, subtropical urban experience that is increasingly resonating with Indian tourists. Wrapped around its namesake river, Brisbane features a walkable city centre, lush riverside parks, and a thriving cultural precinct with world-class art galleries and museums. The appeal extends beyond tourism, as Queensland is also a popular choice for Indian students seeking a high-quality education and lifestyle. This growing student and diaspora community creates a strong foundation for 'visiting friends and relatives' (VFR) travel, a segment that adds a deep, personal connection between India and the Sunshine State, further fuelling visitor numbers.
