Queensland (QLD)
Queensland is Australia's second largest state. Capital city Brisbane has a population of around 2 million people and is located in the sub-tropical south-eastern corner of the state.
Brisbane is about 30km from the coast, on the banks of the Brisbane River. It has experienced significant growth and development in the past ten years and continues to blossom as Australia’s fastest growing capital city.
Recent city expansion means that there are now even more shopping, eating and entertainment options available, especially around the riverside South Bank precinct. There is a wide range of markets to explore each weekend, all of which are outdoors due to the warm Queensland climate. There is also a thriving arts scene.
For fun in the sun, there are a number of islands close by where you can relax and enjoy beach and water activities. These include Moreton Island, North and South Stradbroke Islands, Bribie Island and St Helena Island.
Just an hour south-east of Brisbane is one of the most famous stretches of beach in the world — the Gold Coast. This area, which includes Surfers Paradise, takes advantage of what nature has so generously provided: miles of golden sand, surf beaches and warm water. It is now one of the world’s major tourist destinations and attracts countless visitors — both domestic and international — for the scenery and the party atmosphere.
Still on the Queensland coast, but around 1500km north of the Gold Coast is Cairns, now one of Australia's busiest tourist centres, and one of the main destinations from which to explore the Great Barrier Reef. This world heritage listed natural wonder stretches over 2500km and is the largest coral reef in the world.
Queensland is known as the sunshine state; Southerners flock there during winter to escape the cold. Wherever you are located, you can enjoy the state’s world-famous golden beaches and embrace the 
laid back ‘Queenslander’ lifestyle.
For further information, see the Queensland Holidays website.
Study options
Queensland has a large number of education providers located in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, Cairns and Townsville, including one of only two private universities in Australia. Institutions offer a huge range of courses, but are well known for specialties in tourism, marine science and tropical agriculture. International students make up 26 per cent of Queensland’s student population
Housing
The median weekly rental price for a three-bedroom house in Brisbane is AUD$360, while the median weekly rental price for a one-bedroom unit is $340. The median weekly rental price for a three-bedroom house in regional areas ranges from $320 in Far North Queensland to $410 on the Gold Coast.
Transport
Brisbane and its surrounds are well connected with trains and buses. Most regional areas are serviced by local buses, but access to a form of personal transport may be required. All full-time students receive a public transport concession card. For more information about public transport and fares, see the TRANSLink website.
Climate
Queensland enjoys a warm, stable climate throughout the year, with an average maximum temperature of 25°C, although tropical Far North Queensland experiences high humidity.
Note: Information and figures presented here are intended as a guide only and may change. Source of rental data: rpdata, March 2012.
