Queensland forms the north-east corner of the Australian continent and is the country's second largest state. Queensland is roughly two and a half times the size of Texas. Queensland is home to the Great Barrier Reef, which stretches for about three-quarters of the length of Queensland's east coast. The Great Barrier Reef is the world's most diverse coral reef system. In fact, the state is filled with natural wonders from border to border.



Temperatures are rarely too hot or too cold in Queensland. Towns along the coast benefit from cool summer breezes. Tropical regions of the state have a warm climate with higher humidity. Outback temperatures can be high, but the air is much drier. Temperatures may be higher in the outback, but the humidity is much lower. Mountain and inland temperatures are much cooler than the coast.

Brisbane is the state's capital city and is located in South East Queensland. Brisbane is Australia's fastest growing capital city. Queensland's capital city is experiencing a sustained period of growth and prosperity, and ongoing urban renewal is increasing the number of residents downtown. Opportunities abound in Brisbane's growing art and cultural communities. The city's relaxed atmosphere actually encourages personal networking, which increases likelihood of forging partnerships and business relationships. Brisbane is home to a full range of affordable housing types, and the real estate market continues to be vibrant and growing. The city plays host to many major sporting and cultural events. It is also becoming a popular destination for major international conventions.

Perhaps your sea change in sunny Queensland includes plans to start a new business. Although this is not meant to discourage you, from 50 to 80% of new businesses fail in their first three years. There are some steps you can take before you start your business that will lower your chances of becoming one of these casualties. The most successful businesses are started by entrepreneurs who have some experience or background in a particular industry or product. You should critically assess your own business ideas to make sure they're profitable. Seek out the advice of others and listen to what they say, even if it's not necessarily what you want to hear. Become knowledgeable about your market, and find out what your competition is up to.

Choosing the right location for your business can be an important decision. Not only will location affect how well business goes, relocation may be so expensive that you won't get a second chance. Queensland is an excellent place to locate your business. The economy of Queensland has outperformed the economies of every other Australian state for the last 10 years. Measures of this economic vitality include above-average economic growth, above-average population growth and above-average employment growth. Queensland is well on its way to becoming Australia's second-largest state, with more than 25,000 people a year choosing to make a sea change in sunny Queensland.

The state of Queensland has the lowest payroll tax in all of Australia. Businesses in Victoria or New South Wales pay anywhere from nine to 18 percent more in payroll taxes than comparable businesses in Queensland. As the population grows, so do the opportunities for education. Queensland now boasts nine universities with 26 campuses. Skilled training is available at more than 100 locations. Plus, more than 700,000 students are enrolled in schools across the state.

A high-quality, modern infrastructure is critical to efficient business practices. Queensland has an extensive and well-maintained road network, three international airports and 16 ports. The Port of Brisbane is Australia's second largest trading port. Access to the Internet is widely available in Queensland, with a majority of users subscribing to broadband connections.

The state of Queensland offers a lifestyle that is second to none. Natural wonders, world-class beaches, plus high-quality education, infrastructure and health care all make Queensland an excellent living environment for both employees and business owners. Housing in Queensland is some of the most affordable available in Australia. Living costs compare favorably as well, especially in contrast to other major world cities.

"Making a sea change" is a phrase taken from the lines of Shakespeare. It has become synonymous with accomplishing a great transformation, most often for the better. Sunny Queensland is the perfect venue for your great transformation and for new beginnings.