Why the Gold Coast Stands Out
The Gold Coast is more than sun and surf—it’s Australia’s fastest-growing regional economy, worth $49.4 billion in 2023–24. Strong sectors include construction, healthcare, professional services, and retail. A booming tourism engine is powering this growth—over 12 million visitors contributed billions in annual spending. That spells solid opportunity for buyers looking to invest in hospitality, wellness, tourism experiences, or essential services.
What to Know Before You Buy
Sector demand is rising in hospitality, health services, tourism, and home‑based services. Listings range from small home-run models to multi‑million-dollar industrial operations. Conduct due diligence on financials, lease agreements, licensing, and team management. Government infrastructure projects and population growth also influence long-term value. To navigate this, it’s best to involve brokers and business valuation experts.
Featured Listings Right Now
1. RV Holiday Hire Business
A tourism-focused rental service with a modest turnover. It operates from home, offering flexibility. Asking price is around $160,000.
2. Established Tree Business
Providing residential and commercial tree services for over eight years. Comes with loyal customers and consistent profits. Asking price near $300,000.
3. High-End Recovery & Rehab Centre
A boutique wellness center that’s been operating for six years. This discreet listing caters to high-net-worth clients in a retreat-style setting.
4. Australia Post Licensed Post Office
This Broadbeach location ranks among the top ten performing post offices nationally. Ideal for buyers seeking a steady income stream and a well-established customer base.
5. Nursery Supplier & Garden Retail
This business includes both the enterprise and freehold property. With over $1 million in turnover and more than $600K net profit, it’s perfect for investors with a long-term mindset.
6. Food and Restaurant Ventures
Listings include beachfront seafood restaurants and Italian eateries with strong cash flow. Prices range from $290K to over $600K depending on location and profitability.
7. Mobile and Franchise Businesses
Mobile bakery services, upholstery cleaning, and test-and-tag franchises offer entry-level pricing (from $60K to $100K) and low overhead costs.
8. Industrial and B2B Sectors
Heavy haulage companies and specialty manufacturers present lucrative options for buyers interested in non-retail sectors. Some businesses exceed $5 million in asking price.
Why These Sectors Pop
Tourism and hospitality thrive due to steady local and international visitor flow. Home services are in demand thanks to ongoing population growth. Health and wellness businesses are supported by public funding and growing interest in private treatment. Construction-related and manufacturing businesses benefit from infrastructure developments and increased building activity. Essential service providers like post offices and auto shops continue to offer recession-resistant stability.
How to Choose the Right Fit
Start by clarifying your objectives—are you buying for lifestyle, investment, or career change? Next, analyze business financials thoroughly. Pay attention to lease terms, assets included, and staff conditions. Visit the location, evaluate growth potential, and get a feel for daily operations. Also, factor in new road and rail expansions when assessing value. Having a broker by your side can give you an edge in finding and negotiating the right deal.
Invest Smartly
Always engage professional legal and financial advice when buying a business. Contracts, transfer of ownership, employment obligations, and lease conditions need proper handling. Brokers can help with negotiations and due diligence. If possible, spend a few days shadowing the current owner. This hands-on preview can be invaluable in decision-making.
Strong Signals Ahead
Beachfront areas are recovering from erosion setbacks, with tourism slowly returning to pre-pandemic highs. New airline routes are boosting travel, especially domestic arrivals. Government and council investments into offices, roads, and transport projects point to long-term confidence in the region. Eco-tourism and lifestyle experiences are receiving public support through small business grants and incentives.
Final Thought
The Gold Coast offers a unique blend of lifestyle and commercial potential. Whether you’re seeking a profitable side hustle or a large-scale investment with physical assets, the region delivers a diverse mix of businesses. With clear goals, proper research, and expert guidance, your next opportunity might be just one smart purchase away.
FAQs
What is the average price for businesses on the Gold Coast?
Prices start from around $60,000 for home-based or mobile models, going up to several million dollars for property-backed enterprises.
Can non-residents buy businesses in Australia?
Yes, foreigners can purchase Australian businesses, though some deals may require approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB).
What sectors are the most profitable?
Health and wellness, hospitality, essential retail, and construction-related services often yield strong returns.
How long does the purchase process take?
Most transactions take 2 to 6 months, depending on due diligence, financing, and legal complexities.
Is a franchise better than an independent business?
Franchises offer branding and support systems, while independent businesses provide more flexibility and full creative control.