The Sunshine Coast – affectionately known among locals as the ‘Sunny Coast’ – is a region in the hinterlands of southeast Queensland. The region houses several well-known areas such as Noosa, Caloundra and Mooloolaba. As its name suggests, the Sunshine Coast enjoys warm, sunny weather nearly all year-round. Like the rest of southeast Queensland, the climate here is humid and subtropical, meaning the summers are long and hot, while the winters are short and clear.
Located roughly 100 kilometres north of Queensland’s capital Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast doubles as a home and holiday destination for many. Here’s everything you need to know about the Sunshine Coast and its location.
Getting to the Sunshine Coast
Given its proximity to the state capital, getting to the Sunshine Coast is very convenient. Not only is it roughly a two-hour drive from Brisbane Airport, but the Sunshine Coast even has its own airport. Although smaller in size, the Sunshine Coast Airport features flights to and from a variety of destinations, both in Queensland and around the country.
Trains also run daily from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast. You can learn more about the Sunshine Coast line, including departure and arrival times, via the Translink website.
Getting around the Sunshine Coast
There are several modes of transportation you can use to travel around the Sunshine Coast. Most of the buses here are run by Kinetic (formerly known as Sunbus). You can consult the Kinetic website to learn more about timetables, routes, fares and ticketing.
The Sunshine Coast is also home to many walking and cycle pathways, tracks and trails, which you can explore here.
You can also order a taxi on the Sunshine Coast through Suncoast Cabs.
Education providers on the Sunshine Coast
In the region, you’ll find the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC), a globally revered institution recognised for its commitment to climate action and sustainability. It was named #1 in Queensland and #7 in Australia for its ‘Overall Impact’ in the 2022 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. UniSC also ranked #1 in Queensland for overall educational experience in the 2021 Student Experience Survey Data.
If you’re seeking vocational training, you’ll be glad to hear that TAFE Queensland also has campuses on the Sunshine Coast. This is a particularly exciting area for healthcare students to immerse themselves in given that it houses the Sunshine Coast Health Institute (SCHI). This dedicated education, training and research facility delivers training in areas such as aged care, nursing, and allied health.
Why study on the Sunshine Coast?
If you like the great outdoors, you’ll love the Sunshine Coast. The region houses some of Australia’s most pristine beaches – including Main Beach in Noosa, Mooloolaba Beach and Sunshine Beach – as well as several other outdoor landmarks. Chief among them are the Glasshouse Mountains, 11 peaks with a rich history, incredible walking trails and stunning views.
Additionally, its location offers the best of both worlds. The Sunshine Coast is known for its laid-back, relaxed lifestyle. However, its proximity to Brisbane means you can regularly enjoy the thrills and amenities of metropolitan life.
Given that it is a regional destination, studying on the Sunshine Coast also means you could be entitled to certain visa and migration opportunities. For instance, studying at a regional institution could make you eligible for a second Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after you complete your studies. Plus, studying at a regional institution can even score you extra points on the Australian Government’s points test for permanent residency (PR).
Learn more about the Sunshine Coast
Eager to learn more about the Sunshine Coast? We don’t blame you! Check out the resources below to discover more about the region and decide if it’s the right study destination for you:
Image courtesy of Tourism and Events Queensland.
