Located in Queensland, the Gold Coast (GC) is famed for its beautiful beaches and surf spots, multicultural community and its incredible natural environment. With world-class education facilities and a growing business sector, there are many benefits to living and studying in this sunny slice of paradise.
Ready to know more? Here are seven cool facts about the GC that are sure to impress you and your friends.
1. It’s the only regional study destination in Australia to make the highly competitive QS Rankings
QS uses comprehensive data to rank thousands of universities and academic programs across the globe; they’re the most widely read in the world. In 2023, three universities from the GC placed in the QS rankings. Equally as impressive, the GC placed 93rd in the QS Best Student Cities ranking in a list of 140 candidates (alongside cities like London and New York)!
2. It’s one of the top 10 most welcoming cities on Earth
Indigenous culture is warmly embraced on the Gold Coast, along with the many international cultures based here. According to data from the Australia Bureau of Statistics, almost one out of every three GC residents was born overseas. The city is home to large South Asian, Southeast Asian and South American communities, with Brazil being the top student cohort and Colombia close behind. The Gold Coast is Australia’s largest non-capital city for international enrolments, attracting students from more than 140 nations. In 2023, Booking.com named the GC as one of the most welcoming cities on Earth.
3. It has the most theme parks in the Southern Hemisphere
This one is for the rollercoaster fanatics. The GC is home to the largest concentration of theme parks on this side of the equator. If you’re keen to test your nerves on some of the tallest and fastest rides, head to Dreamworld. Looking to cool off in the tropical weather? WhiteWater World and Wet’n’Wild will have you covered. The GC isn’t just for relaxing at the beach, it’s for the thrill-seekers too.
4. It has nine times more waterways than Venice
Over 600 kilometres of waterways weave through the city, with 260 kilometres of canals navigable by boat, jet ski or paddle board. If you enjoy swimming, boarding or even just strolling alongside the water, the GC affords you the opportunity to enjoy an aquatic lifestyle.
5. Industry thrives here across multiple sectors
From start-ups to established enterprises, those studying and working on the GC thrive on its creative energy and entrepreneurial mindset. It’s a national and global centre of excellence for health and medical sciences and has an ever-growing community of innovators and start-ups.
Gold Coast Student Jobs is a fantastic resource for students and graduates looking for work experience and job opportunities in their chosen field.
6. Nature is on your doorstep with the Gold Coast Hinterland
Swap the sand and surf for the lush green hills of the Gold Coast Hinterland. While the GC is known for its epic beaches, there is so much hidden beauty to be discovered less than an hour’s drive inland. Discover ancient rainforests in Springbrook National Park or explore Tamborine Mountain, an extinct volcano with a flourishing artistic community.
7. People have inhabited this area for tens of thousands of years
The Kombumerri people, part of the Bundjalung Country and the wider Yugambeh Language Group, are the traditional custodians of the Gold Coast region. This area has been continuously inhabited for about 23,000 years, with distinct territories belonging to different clan groups. Historically, dolphins played a crucial role in the community; the Kombumerri Clan trained them to assist with fishing and hunting
Read more:
