Gladstone Region Visitor Economy Generates More Than $540 Million as Strategic Plans Set Course for Growth

The Gladstone Region visitor economy generated more than $421.4 million in visitor expenditure during the year ending March 2026, according to the latest Tourism Research Australia National and International Visitor Survey data.

The results show the region welcomed 534,000 domestic overnight visitors, contributing $405.7 million to the local economy, alongside 23,133 international visitors, who generated a further $15.7million in expenditure.

Combined, visitors contributed approximately $546.4 million including daytrips to the Gladstone Region economy, supporting local businesses, jobs and communities across the destination.

Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Limited (GAPDL) Interim CEO Dee Dalton said the results demonstrate the growing importance of tourism as an economic driver for the region.

“Tourism is an increasingly important part of the Gladstone Region economy, supporting businesses across accommodation, hospitality, attractions, transport, retail and visitor experiences.”

“The latest data shows visitors are choosing to spend meaningful time and money in our region, creating flow-on benefits for local operators and communities.”

The data also highlights the changing nature of the destination, with holiday travel now accounting for approximately 64 per cent of all domestic overnight visitation.

“Historically, the Gladstone Region was strongly associated with industry and business travel. While those markets remain important, we’re seeing growing recognition of the region as a leisure destination, driven by our reef, islands, coastal experiences, nature-based tourism and unique regional character.”

The reporting period concluded in March 2026, coinciding with the launch of the Gladstone Region Tourism Strategic Plan 2026–2036.

Since then, GAPDL has also completed the Gladstone Region Destination Management Plan 2026–2036, which will launch in August.

Ms Dalton said the data provides a strong baseline for the next phase of destination development.

“The data confirms the region is on the right track, while also reinforcing the priorities identified through the Tourism Strategic Plan and Destination Management Plan.”

“While we’re encouraged by the strength of the visitor economy and the value visitors are bringing to the region, the data also highlights opportunities to increase destination awareness, encourage longer stays and continue growing both domestic and international visitation.”

The Tourism Strategic Plan and Destination Management Plan were developed through extensive consultation with tourism operators, community and government stakeholders and provide a long-term roadmap for sustainable visitor economy growth.

Key priorities include destination development, nature-based tourism, visitor experience enhancement, improved connectivity, strategic partnerships, regional dispersal and destination marketing.

Ms Dalton said the plans provide a clear vision for how tourism can contribute to the region’s future prosperity.

“The Gladstone Region is home to some of Queensland’s most authentic visitor experiences – from the Southern Great Barrier Reef and Heron Island to Agnes Water and the Town of 1770, the Boyne Valley and our growing ecotourism offering.”

“The opportunity now is to build on these strengths, ensuring more people discover the region, stay longer, explore further and contribute to the economic and social wellbeing of our communities.”

Key Visitor Economy Statistics – Year Ending March 2026

Domestic Market