Brisbane’s tourism industry is booming like never before, redefining the city’s place on the global stage while transforming local communities and businesses.

New data from Tourism Research Australia reveals the sector has injected $12.1 billion into the economy and supported nearly 80,000 jobs in the past year.

More than 9.4 million visitors spent nearly 54 million nights in the city, boosting key sectors including hospitality, retail, transport, and events.

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Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the city’s world-class lifestyle precincts and packed events calendar are at the heart of the boom.

“Brisbane’s incredible lifestyle and soaring global reputation is driving a tourism boom, which is boosting our economy and supporting local jobs,” Schrinner said.

He pointed to hotspots like Howard Smith Wharves, Fish Lane and South Bank, alongside major events including the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and Bluey’s World, as key attractions drawing crowds.

Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) CEO Anthony Ryan said the boom is no coincidence.

“Brisbane’s tourism success is the result of outstanding collaboration, bold ambition and a focus on delivering an exceptional visitor experience,” Ryan said.

Ryan described the Australian Tourism Exchange last months as a defining moment for Brisbane, “putting our city on the world stage and creating opportunities that will be felt for decades”.

“The momentum we’re building is extraordinary — and we’re just getting started.”

With new direct international flights connecting Brisbane to major global hubs such as Dallas, Los Angeles, Bangkok and Manila, and with the 2032 Olympic Games on the horizon, the city’s tourism sector is set to receive an even bigger boost.

BEDA’s report forecasts Brisbane’s experience economy will grow by 41 per cent by 2031 in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The tourism boom is creating thousands of new jobs and breathing new life into local businesses, offering fresh opportunities for families and communities across the city.

However, experts warn sustainable growth is crucial to protect Brisbane’s liveability and infrastructure as visitor numbers continue to climb.