Queensland is set to become Australia’s top holiday destination this Easter, with new data revealing that 18% of Australians plan to visit the state during the school holiday period.
According to Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), the upcoming surge in visitation comes at a crucial time for the state’s tourism sector, which has been grappling with the aftermath of recent natural disasters. The Crisafulli Government’s Tourism Disaster Recovery Package has helped boost Queensland’s appeal, positioning it as the leading choice for domestic travelers this Easter.
Key findings from the data show that one in six Australians plans to visit Queensland, with residents from New South Wales accounting for the largest share—one in five intending to stay in the state for at least one night. Victorians follow, with one in ten planning to travel to Queensland for the holiday.
The most popular destinations within the state are the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and the Sunshine Coast, although regional Queensland is also gaining traction with interstate visitors. Road travel remains a popular option, with 49% of tourists expected to travel by car, while more than half of visitors will fly to Queensland.
Events on the Queensland calendar are expected to further drive tourism, with major events such as the Tour de Brisbane, the Australian Boardriders Battle Grand Final, and the Gold Coast Film Festival expected to attract visitors from across the nation.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell, expressed his optimism for the holiday season, emphasizing the state’s resilience. “Queensland is open for business, and our tourism operators are ready for a busy Easter period,” Powell said. “This data highlights the effectiveness of the Crisafulli Government’s response, ensuring that there is no gap between recovery and growth. We encourage everyone in need of a holiday to visit the Sunshine State.”
Tourism and Events Queensland CEO, Craig Davidson, echoed the sentiment, noting that Queensland’s tourism sector was bouncing back despite challenges in Outback regions. “The significant number of Australians planning to visit Queensland this Easter is a promising sign for the industry,” Davidson said. “We urge holidaymakers to take advantage of the fantastic deals available on Queensland.com, ranging from accommodations to dining and activities.”
As Queensland braces for an influx of holidaymakers, the state’s tourism industry is gearing up for what is expected to be a record-breaking Easter holiday season.
