Brisbane posted a record tourism year with international spend around $3.1 billion and total regional visitor expenditure reaching $11.3 billion, buoyed by a surge in Japanese visitors and a broader international/domestic mix.

The surge is fuelling demand for short-term rentals alongside hotels, with Airbnb growing as a flexible lodging option for international visitors.

Attractions and dining are offering culturally tailored experiences, including Japanese-inspired rooms and cuisine, guided tours, and day trips to regional highlights like the Great Barrier Reef and local arts/food scenes.

Ongoing infrastructure projects linked to 2032 Olympic growth—Cross River Rail and Victoria Park—bolster long-term tourism and economic strategy.

International visitors spent a record $3.3 billion, while domestic visitors exceeded 7 million, contributing about $9.9 billion in total tourism expenditure.

Bleisure travelers are boosting mid-week demand, Indigenous river tours are seeing rising bookings, and stronger local flight competition is helping residents’ overseas holiday budgets.

Visitors increasingly explored city highlights—from City Hall and the Christmas tree to river-based activities—with operators stressing the importance of activating riverfront assets such as CityCat and the Story Bridge to sustain growth.

Practical tips highlight planning for peak seasons, learning local etiquette, exploring beyond the city, using Go Card for transport, and monitoring airline schedules to maximize convenience.

Favorable exchange rates and high-quality Queensland food and drink are enabling higher tourist spending despite higher living costs.

International visitors are staying longer (averaging around 22 nights) and spending more per day, with rising demand for dining, James Street shopping, and cultural experiences at venues like QPAC.

Brisbane’s marketing campaign, Brisbane Favours the Bold, underlines its subtropical identity and bold investments as drivers of the tourism boom.

Queen’s Wharf opened in phases through 2024-25, a $3.6 billion integrated resort with attractions like Sky Deck and luxury hotels, boosting international appeal.