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General Overview
Sunshine Coast General Overview
Sunshine Coast General Overview

Sunshine Coast General Overview

The Sunshine Coast is one of Australia's most popular holiday destinations for Australians and, now, is popular with visitors from all around the world as they discover the natural unspoiled beauty of its tropical rain forests, miles of white sandy beaches, holiday resorts, scenic tours and a myriad of other local attractions.

The Sunshine Coast has become increasingly recognised as one of the most desirable places to live in the world, so if you're thinking of moving here... you'll be making a wise, safe and sensible decision!

We have gathered some stats and facts below to help you make an informed decision if you are considering living on the beautiful Sunshine Coast.

Statistics

Area: 3130 square kilometres. To get an idea of the size of this coastal area, it stretches along approximately 65km's of sandy beaches and headlands, from Caloundra in the south, to Noosa which is located about 90kms north (1.5 hour drive) of Brisbane.

Population: The current population base of the Sunshine Coast is approximately 330,000 (as of March 2010) making it Australia's 10th largest area for population although with the long stretches of sand and acres of bushland it is hard to believe.

Climate and Weather

With one of the highest sunshine readings in the world its easy to see why they call it the Sunshine Coast. The temperature fluctuations between the summer and winter months is mild with temperatures being generally comfortable all year round.

The temperature of the ocean can range from 26°C in summer to 19°C in the winter. Temperatures in the Blackall ranges and Sunshine Coast hinterland can be several degrees cooler.

Average Summer Temperatures: In January (Summer), the temperatures average around 28°C (82°F).

Average Winter Temperatures: In July (Winter), the temperatures averages around 20°C (68°F).

For current weather conditions and more Sunshine Coast climate information, see our Weather page.

Transport

The Sunshine Coast provides many means of transport for both visitors and citizens. The Airport is centrally located at Mudjimba and is serviced by regular direct jet flights that operate to Sydney and Melbourne with connections to other capital cities.

The nearby Bruce Highway is a prominent arterial transport route that enables a quick one hour drive from the Sunshine Coast to the state capital of Brisbane and vice versa.

A regular rail service maintained by Queensland Rail includes electric train commuter service and the tilt train and operates between the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane . The railway also provides access to all central and North Queensland growth centres.

Other services in the transport infrastructure include regular bus routes within the Sunshine Coast area and services to and from the Sunshine Coast. Taxi and limousine services also operate within the area.

More information about getting to and getting around the Sunshine Coast can be found in our Tourist Information section.

Environment

The Sunshine Coast has the advantage of a more relaxed lifestyle of a growing urban centre in a rural setting. The beach and the hinterlands impact heavily in the lifestyle enjoyed, with beach and water activities prevailing. The Shire has thousands of parks and thousands of hectares of National Park. Proximity to the city of Brisbane ensure the benefits of city life with the chance to escape to the relaxed beach and country lifestyle that typifies the Sunshine Coast. Many of the towns have low development plans so the council plan to keep it just the way it is, which both locals and tourists agree is a good thing.

Attractions and Features

  • a well established infrastructure network including superior quality energy, sewage, water, transport and telecommunications systems.
  • a diverse base of industries providing stability to the area with industries such as manufacturing, tourism, retail, construction and food processing
  • a growing population and economy base coupled with a strong and supportive business network laying the foundation for future growth of business.
  • a remarkable array of community services including primary and high schools, tertiary institutions, hospitals, nursing homes, recreation, cultural and sporting facilities.
  • a central location that capitalises on State, National and International markets through being easily accessible by road, air and sea and proximity to other boom areas.