Gold Coast Open House 2025 Launch

Mayor, City of Gold Coast, Councillor Tom Tate, Councillors and staff; Vice-Chancellor and President, Bond University, Professor Tim Brailsford; Queensland Government Architect, Ms Leah Lang; Chair, Gold Coast Open House, Mr Christopher Cumming; Chair, Brisbane Open House, Mr Malcolm Middleton OAM; Leaders in the fields of architecture and urban design; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen.

I thank Uncle John Graham for his warm Welcome to Country, and I also begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands and waters around the Gold Coast, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging and all First Nations people here today.

As Governor of Queensland, and Patron of Gold Coast Open House, I am delighted to join you for the launch of this year’s program.

The Gold Coast is one of the fastest-growing regions in Australia. Over the past two decades its population has surged — and for good reason. This city offers a remarkable quality of life: it is defined not only by its outstanding natural assets — its coastline, hinterland, and climate — but also by its built environment.

The Gold Coast has become a destination of choice not simply because of its beaches, but because of the way its urban landscape has been shaped to be liveable, dynamic, and truly distinctive. Its skyline of glittering towers at the ocean’s edge, is as striking from the distant hinterland as it is from the shoreline below.

Every building, every public space, every piece of thoughtful design contributes to a sense of place and possibility. This is why the vision behind Gold Coast Open House is so important.

By opening doors and inviting the community in, the Gold Coast Open House program fosters engagement between design professionals, residents and visitors. It shines a light on both contemporary and historical architectural achievements, while also honouring those professions that collaborate in creating, protecting, and re-imagining the city’s design attractions.

In doing so, it strengthens the connection between people and the places in which they live and work.

This year’s theme of Resilience could not be more fitting. The Gold Coast is constantly evolving in response to natural forces, social change, and community aspirations. Through resilience, it continues to create places of architectural significance and public interest that reflect the spirit and vibrancy of this great city.

I warmly congratulate everyone involved in presenting this program of tours, talks, and events. May it spark inspiration, deepen appreciation, and celebrate the unique character of the Gold Coast.

It is now my great pleasure to officially launch Gold Coast Open House 2025.