Destination

The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s favorite playgrounds welcoming millions of people every year.

The Gold Coast’s star attraction is its beaches, including the world-renowned stretch of sand at Surfers Paradise. Beyond the beaches, discover laid-back neighborhoods, a booming culinary scene and the Gold Coast’s famous theme parks. And be sure to leave enough time for a trip into the subtropical hinterland for rainforest walks and waterfalls.

Travelling to the Gold Coast City is easy. You can land at either the Gold Coast Airport (https://www.goldcoastairport.com.au/) or at Brisbane Airport (https://www.bne.com.au/) which is as little as one hour’s drive (85 kilometers) far from the City of Gold Coast.

Should you decide to land at Brisbane airport and then reach the Gold City, the following site (https://www.airtrain.com.au/catch-airtrain-to/gold-coast-surfers-paradise/) can assist you in purchasing train tickets to the Gold Coast City.

Climate

The Gold Coast averages 245 days of fine and sunny weather each year, and those rainy-day exceptions typically fall in the summer period.

Spring (September – November) on the Gold Coast offers sunny days followed by mild tropical evenings. September can sometimes be windy, making it great for sports such as kitesurfing, kiteboarding, windsurfing and sailing. The temperatures fall between 15-25°C (59-77°F).

In Summer (December – February), the average temperature on the Gold Coast is a pleasant 20-28°C (68-83°F). It can be humid in summer, but this is usually offset by cool sea breezes.

Some quick tips from the locals:

  • You can get sunburnt even on cloudy days. Wear sun protection all year round, a broad brimmed hat, shirt with collar and sleeves and maximum sunscreen to exposed skin.
  • While casual is the Gold Coast norm, some golf courses have dress codes so check when booking.
  • Gentlemen may need a jacket when fine dining, or enjoying a sophisticated evening at a club or restaurant.
  • Hinterland areas may be cooler and wetter. Take a jacket and a heavier coat in winter.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes in national parks and farms.
  • Pack swimwear all year round – winter offers pleasant warm weather during the day.

Australia’s Emergency Contact Number

In an emergency, call 000.

If you need urgent help from the police, fire or ambulance service while visiting the Gold Coast, you should call 000 immediately and Australia’s Telecommunications provider Telstra will answer the call and transfer you, along with information about your location, to the emergency service you request.

Important Dates

Submission Deadline: May 1st, 2025
Notification of Acceptance: July 1st, 2025
Final Papers Submission: July 15th, 2025

Announcements