Why we love life on the Coast

GOLD Coast residents believe the cost of living here is relatively low and they love the climate but most say our cultural scene is lacking, a landmark study will reveal today.

The year-long look into Queensland’s future has also found retirement destinations like the Gold Coast will feel the pain of an ageing population and will need older people to stay in jobs for longer to sustain its workforce and economy.

Deloitte’s Confidently Queensland study revealed the Gold Coast is home to 12 per cent of the Queensland population – easily the largest city outside of Brisbane. In contrast, the Sunshine Coast accounts for seven per cent of the state’s residents and the Wide Bay district just six per cent.

The survey of 6000 Queenslanders found young people on the Gold Coast valued recreation, while older generations valued amenities, and 30-49 year olds appreciated health care.

Deloitte managing partner John Greig said Queensland was is in the midst of a transition from a once-in-a-lifetime resources construction boom to a more diversified knowledge-based economy. “But the path to get there remains challenging to many Queenslanders given the various powerful global forces at play,” he wrote.

“The future of Queensland has the potential to be even better than it is today. But only if we make the right choices to leverage the opportunities as outlined in Confidently Queensland: Liveable com-

munities, diversified economy and inclusive growth.”

The study found that by 2027 the state economy is likely to grow 10 per cent faster than currently predicted, that an extra 230,000 jobs will be created and growth in agriculture, tourism and natural resources will mean fewer young people will have to leave to find work.

The study was steered by some of the state’s top business and government figures including Star Entertainment Group Queensland managing director Geoff Hogg, Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland CEO Stephen Tait and Department of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning Director General Frankie Carroll.