Brisbane and the Gold Coast have launched joint trade representation in India to boost visitation to Queensland's visitor economy and support local jobs. The initiative, led by Bristanev Economic Development Agency, Brisbane Airport, and Experience Gold Coast, appoints Horus Development and Consulting to spearhead trade, marketing, and PR across India.
In a landmark collaboration, Brisbane and the Gold Coast have united to capture growth from India's rapidly expanding outbound travel market, launching dedicated trade representation to convert rising demand into visitation and economic impact for South East Queensland.
Brisbane Economic Development Agency, Brisbane Airport and Experience Gold Coast have appointed Horus Development and Consulting to represent the two destinations in India. The initiative aims to strengthen trade engagement in air connectivity and attract more Indian visitors to Queensland, supporting thousands of tourism jobs and local businesses.
India is among Australia's top five international visit markets, with Queensland welcoming 77000 Indian visitors in the year ending September 2025, who spent USD 238.9 million. Brisbane recorded 46,000 Indian arrivals, up 0.4 per cent year on year, while the Gold Coast saw 25,000 visitors, marking a robust 35 per cent year on year growth.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the partnership highlights the city's commitment to positioning Brisbane as a preferred Australian destination for Indian travellers.
"India is one of the fastest growing travel markets in the world, and we want Brisbane to be top of mind for Indian travellers looking to experience Australia's lifestyle capital," Schrinner said. "Tourism brings in USD 13.7 billion in visitor spending and supports thousands of local jobs. This partnership with the Gold Coast will help bring more visitors to South East Queensland and support our local jobs. This partnership with the Gold Coast will help bring more visitors to South East Queensland, support our local economy, and strengthen Brisbane's visitor industry."
Brisbane Airport CEO Gert Jan de Graaff emphasised India's growing relevance for Queensland tourism.
"India is a key market for Brisbane and represents significant potential for growth," de Graaff said, "With Malaysian Airlines now flying to Brisbane five times a week and connecting to 10 major Indian cities, Queensland is more accessible than ever together with our dedicated representation in India we are sending a clear message that South East Queensland is ready to welcome Indian travellers."
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the initiative would enhance the city's appeal and sustain its USD 8.1 billion visitor economy. "India's parents have huge opportunities for the Gold Coast," Tate said. "This partnership will help us capitalise on their growth drive, visitor demand, and strengthen aviation capacity. The in-market representation will allow us better to promote our diverse experiences across South East Queensland."
Horus Development and Consulting, which already represents Brisbane across Southeast Asia, will expand its remit to lead trade engagement, marketing, and PR in India. The programs will be led by Ratna Rai, Account Manager India, who has extensive experience and industry relationships.
Benoit Badufle, Managing Director of Horus Development and Consulting, said the expanded partnership underscores a long-term vision. "We are thrilled to extend our work with BEDA into the Indian market, a tourism segment close to my heart for the last 20 years. India represents a vivacious and fast-growing base of travellers seeking distinctive city experiences. Our goal is to ensure Brisbane stays top of mind for Indian travel trade and consumers, showcasing the region's rich culture, natural beauty and signature lifestyle."
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