Living in Queensland

Queensland is known as the sunshine state, since it enjoys more warm and sunny days than any other state with an average of 300 sunny days a year. Residents enjoy outdoor activities with world-class beaches and waterways, national parks and rain forests to explore. Queensland is also home to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's natural wonders. For more information visit www.destinationqueensland.com.

Brisbane

Brisbane is the capital and largest city of Queensland. The city has a population of approximately 1.8 million people. Brisbane has all the facilities and services expected in a large modern city, yet it retains a relaxed easy pace of life. Brisbane has residents from a wide variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, combined with a high level of personal freedom, creating a truly multicultural city. For more information, visit www.ourbrisbane.com.

Cost of living

Queensland has a lower cost of living when compared with other Australian states and territories and is one of the most affordable major cities in Australia. Rents vary depending on how close you live to the Brisbane River and city centre. Day-to-day living expenses are quite low and public transport is well priced.

Getting around

Brisbane is an easy city to navigate and is well serviced by buses, trains and ferries. It is relatively flat, which makes it ideal for cycling through the city’s 500kms of bicycle paths. If the distance is too far to cycle, you will also find that most of Brisbane’s trains and buses are bicycle-friendly. For a complete guide to transport in Brisbane, including timetables and fares, head to www.translink.com.au.

Climate

Brisbane has a humid, sub-tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer runs from December to February with the average maximum temperature reaching around 29°C. During the winter months of June to August, the average minimum temperature drops to around 10°C. From late spring through to early autumn, thunderstorms and moderate is rainfall common. For up-to-date information on Brisbane’s weather, head to www.bom.gov.au.