Queensland is a vibrant and diverse state known for its natural beauty, dynamic economy, and strong sense of community. It faces the future with a focus on sustainable development, innovation, and preserving its unique environmental heritage.
List of Public Holidays in Queensland 2024
- Labour Day: Monday, 6 May
- Royal Queensland Show: Wednesday, 14 August* (Brisbane only)
- Queen’s Birthday: Monday, 7 October
List of National and Public holidays in Australia for the year 2024
- New Year’s Day is on Monday, 1 January
- Australia Day is on Friday, 26 January
- Good Friday is on Friday, 29 March
- Easter Saturday is on Saturday, 30 March
- 2. Easter Sunday is on Sunday, 31 March
- 3. Easter Monday is on Monday, 1 April
- Anzac Day is on Tuesday, 25 April
- Christmas Day is on Wednesday, 25 December
- Boxing Day is on Thursday, 26 December
- Boxing Day Holiday: Friday, 27 December 2024
- New South Wales
- Northern Territory
- Queensland
- Western Australia
- Tasmania
- South Australia
- Viktoria
- Capital Territory
History
- Indigenous Heritage: Queensland has a rich Indigenous history, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples inhabiting the region for tens of thousands of years, each with distinct cultures and languages.
- European Settlement: European exploration began in the 17th century, but significant settlement started in the 19th century. Queensland was established as a separate colony from New South Wales in 1859.
- Development and Growth: The state’s development was significantly influenced by the gold rush, agriculture, and later mining activities.
Geography
- Diverse Landscapes: Encompassing the Great Barrier Reef, tropical rainforests, arid outback, and metropolitan areas, Queensland boasts a wide range of natural environments.
- Climate: Features a tropical climate in the north, including the Wet Tropics, and a subtropical climate in the south, with varying conditions in the interior.
Culture
- Cultural Diversity: Reflects a multicultural society with influences from its Indigenous heritage, European settlers, and recent international migrants.
- Arts and Festivals: Hosts vibrant arts scenes and cultural festivals, such as the Brisbane Festival and the Indigenous Cultural Festivals in the Torres Strait and Cape York.
- Cuisine: Offers a diverse culinary scene, influenced by its tropical agriculture, seafood, and multicultural communities.
Economy
- Key Sectors: Traditionally reliant on agriculture, mining, and tourism. Queensland is a major exporter of coal, beef, wool, and sugar.
- Innovation and Technology: Recent growth in technology, education, and healthcare sectors, aiming to diversify the economy beyond traditional industries.
- Tourism: A significant contributor, with attractions like the Great Barrier Reef, Gold Coast, and national parks drawing visitors from around the world.
Society
- Population: Characterized by a mix of urban and rural populations, with major cities including Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Cairns.
- Healthcare and Education: Provides comprehensive healthcare and education systems, with initiatives to extend services to remote and rural areas.
- Community and Lifestyle: Known for its laid-back lifestyle, community spirit, and emphasis on outdoor living and recreation.
Environmental Initiatives
- Conservation Efforts: Active in protecting its unique ecosystems, including the Great Barrier Reef and ancient rainforests. Initiatives focus on conservation, sustainable tourism, and addressing climate change impacts.
- Renewable Energy: Pursuing renewable energy projects to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimize environmental impact.
Government and Politics
- State Governance: Operates under a parliamentary constitutional monarchy, with a Governor representing the monarch and a Premier as head of the government.
- Environmental and Economic Policies: Balancing economic development with environmental conservation is a key focus, alongside health, education, and infrastructure development.
Tourism
- World Heritage Sites: Home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Great Barrier Reef, Wet Tropics of Queensland, and Fraser Island.
- Adventure and Nature: Offers a range of activities from snorkeling and diving in the reef to hiking in national parks and exploring the outback.
