Southport

Get to Know

The Gold Coast's central business district

Southport is the official central business district of the Gold Coast and the city's largest suburb by population. Originally named Nerang Creek Heads, it was renamed in 1875 after the English seaside resort and established as a town in 1902. The suburb has evolved from a historic resort destination favoured by Queensland governors into a modern urban centre featuring the Chinatown precinct, Australia Fair shopping centre, and excellent light rail connectivity via the G:link to Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach. Home to Griffith University's Gold Coast campus and close to Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport attracts a diverse population of students, healthcare professionals, and young families. With 11 new high-rise developments planned, the suburb continues to transform as the administrative and commercial heart of one of Australia's fastest-growing cities.