Results
8.4% employment growth, diverse industries, competitive salaries
The Sunshine Coast’s employment grew by 8.4% over the past year, outpacing Queensland’s already strong 4.6% growth. With more than 185,000 people employed across the region (approximately 58% full-time and 34% part-time), the Sunshine Coast offers genuine career diversity across both established and emerging industries.
Beyond the holiday reputation
While the Sunshine Coast was once defined primarily by tourism and lifestyle industries, today’s economy tells a far more complex and compelling story. The region has transformed into a nationally recognised centre for health, education, technology, construction, and professional services, supported by major public and private investment.
The professional opportunity
The Sunshine Coast offers something rare in Australia’s employment landscape: metropolitan-level career opportunity without metropolitan compromise. Professionals are visible, valued, and often fast-tracked within organisations that prioritise collaboration, flexibility, and sustainable growth.
Competitive edge
Career momentum accelerates on the Sunshine Coast. Employers compete for talent by offering accelerated responsibility, flexible work models, and competitive remuneration aligned with a comparatively lower cost of living. Many professionals reach leadership roles earlier while maintaining the lifestyle that attracted them to their career.
The Sunshine Coast network effect
Professional relationships extend well beyond boardrooms. Business connections are built through coastal walks, community events, and informal café meetings, with opportunities frequently emerging through the region’s highly connected and collaborative professional networks. Median full-time annual earnings typically range from $70,000 to $95,000, with weekly earnings between $1,350 and $1,825.
Professional networking
& career development
Major industries &
career opportunities
Healthcare & social assistance
Professional, scientific & technical services
Construction & infrastructure
Education & training
Manufacturing & logistics
Technology & innovation
