Dr John Cowie, General Manager Investment at Brisbane Economic Development Agency
Brisbane
is not just Australia’s fastest-growing capital city, it’s rapidly becoming one of its most investable.
This transformation is no accident. It reflects years of groundwork, driven by strong collaboration between government, industry and business.
For 21 consecutive quarters, Brisbane has led the nation in net internal migration. People and businesses are voting with their feet, drawn by a city that combines lifestyle advantages with real economic strength. The data backs it up: Brisbane’s exports are growing faster than the national average and its economy is diversifying rapidly into high-value sectors.
Our growth isn’t isolated to one industry. In health, Brisbane hosts the largest health and research precinct in the Southern Hemisphere, a major draw for clinical trials and MedTech investment. The city also boasts the highest professional services growth in the country over the past decade.
This evolution is underpinned by innovation. Brisbane is recognised as a Global Top 40 Innovation City and will be home to the world’s first useful quantum computer, developed at Brisbane Airport. These milestones reflect the city’s ambition and capacity to lead in advanced technology and applied science.
On the ground, doing business is easier here. Brisbane City Council processes well-made development applications 38% faster than Sydney or Melbourne, giving businesses greater speed and certainty. Brisbane also operates Australia’s most efficient freight network, supported by the country’s largest runway capacity and expanding port and warehousing infrastructure.
Tourism and major events are another bright spot. Brisbane’s visitor economy is surging, with a record $11.3 billion in tourism expenditure in 2024, driven by new hotel investment, international sporting events and momentum towards the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
At Brisbane Economic Development Agency, we’re focused on helping businesses tap into this momentum. For those seeking a deeper view of the data, trends and opportunities driving this next chapter, I encourage you to explore our State of the City report, your guide to Brisbane’s economic future.
For Queensland businesses, especially those already based here, this is a critical moment. The city’s growth is real, and the window to get ahead is open. Whether you're in finance, tech, trade or professional services, there are clear opportunities to expand, collaborate and lead.
Brisbane’s trajectory is clear. The next decade offers a rare chance to help define what this city becomes, not just for investors, but for
all who live and work here.
