Queensland cities strengthen trade presence to convert rising Indian interest into aviation growth, premium stays and broader economic impact
Brisbane and the Gold Coast have initiated a coordinated market development drive in India, reflecting the growing importance of the country as one of the world’s most dynamic outbound travel sources. The collaboration marks a strategic alignment between destination marketing, aviation stakeholders and regional tourism bodies to convert rising awareness into sustained visitation and higher-value travel flows into Queensland.
The joint initiative is designed to strengthen trade engagement, deepen airline partnerships and expand destination visibility among Indian travel planners, luxury travel designers and MICE organisers. By establishing a dedicated in-market presence, the two cities aim to improve route performance, lift hotel occupancy and support tourism-linked employment across South East Queensland.
India: A Market of Scale and Momentum
India has emerged as one of Australia’s leading international visitor markets, driven by rising disposable incomes, expanding air connectivity and increasing demand for long-haul experiential travel. Queensland has recorded steady gains from the market, with visitor numbers and expenditure showing upward momentum, particularly in leisure, visiting friends and relatives (VFR), and business travel segments.
Brisbane continues to position itself as a gateway to Queensland, combining urban lifestyle appeal with access to nature, culture and coastal experiences. The Gold Coast, known for its beaches, theme parks, dining and hinterland landscapes, has seen particularly strong growth from Indian travellers, reflecting demand for multi-experience itineraries that combine city stays with leisure attractions.
Aviation Connectivity as a Catalyst
Air access remains central to the growth strategy. Brisbane’s international aviation network connects to India via key Asian hubs, supported by carriers offering onward services to major Indian cities. Expanded frequencies and improved connections are expected to make South East Queensland more accessible, strengthening the case for both leisure travel and business events.
The alignment between tourism bodies and airport stakeholders underscores a shared objective: improving load factors on existing routes while building a long-term foundation for additional capacity. Stronger inbound performance from India also supports airline confidence in maintaining and expanding services.
Lifestyle Appeal Meets Experiential Demand
Both Brisbane and the Gold Coast are being positioned as destinations that resonate with India’s evolving traveller profile — from multi-generational families and honeymooners to young professionals and incentive groups. Key themes include waterfront lifestyle precincts, culinary diversity, nature-based excursions, wildlife encounters, luxury accommodation and major events.
Brisbane’s urban villages, arts and cultural districts, and riverfront experiences are being paired with the Gold Coast’s resort environment, entertainment attractions and scenic hinterland to create balanced itineraries that blend relaxation with activity. This complementary positioning is intended to extend average length of stay and increase per-visitor spend.
Economic Significance and Industry Alignment
Tourism plays a major role in the South East Queensland economy, supporting local enterprises across hospitality, retail, attractions and events. Strengthening engagement with India is therefore not only a marketing exercise but an economic strategy aimed at sustaining employment and driving long-term visitor expenditure growth.
The in-market representation model focuses on trade education, partnership development and public relations, ensuring that travel advisors and tour operators have the tools and product knowledge required to confidently promote Brisbane and the Gold Coast within Australian itineraries.
Building Long-Term Market Presence
Rather than a short-term campaign, the initiative represents a structured, ongoing approach to market cultivation. Engagement with airlines, wholesalers, luxury travel planners and MICE specialists forms a core part of the strategy, alongside consumer-facing storytelling that highlights Queensland’s blend of modern urbanity and natural beauty.
As India’s outbound market continues to mature, destinations offering safety, infrastructure, lifestyle appeal and experiential depth are expected to benefit most. By combining their strengths under a unified approach, Brisbane and the Gold Coast are positioning South East Queensland as a compelling proposition for India’s next wave of international travellers.
