That's Just What This Country Needs: Lights, Camera, GC!

A major new arts and creative industries precinct is being proposed for the GC, with the City of Gold Coast now seeking expressions of interest (EOIs) from development and investment partners to help deliver the project.

Will the Gold Coast be transformed into the next Hollywood, or should we tell him he’s dreamin?

Building the Next Blockbuster

The proposed Miami Arts Depot would transform the existing council depot into a dedicated hub for screen production, visual effects, technology and gaming industries, positioning the Gold Coast as a global creative destination.

Planned across a four-hectare site, the mixed-use precinct would feature film production and post-production facilities, visual effects studios, retail and hospitality spaces, residential developments, and open-air public areas. It’s enough to make you sigh, “How’s the serenity?”

Council estimates the project could generate $130 million in annual economic activity and support around 1,000 new jobs.

The precinct has the backing of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate, alongside acclaimed Australian filmmaker Baz Luhrmann and costume and production designer Catherine Martin. Their production company, Bazmark, has been appointed as the project’s chief creative partner.

Mayor Tate described the vision as “unapologetic”, with ambitions to place the Gold Coast’s screen industry on the global stage alongside major international production hubs.

Standing Ovation from the Community

Community consultation undertaken in early 2025 attracted 732 submissions, with strong support:

• 87% supported rejuvenating the Miami Depot site

• 88% supported council continuing to investigate the concept

• 82% agreed the project would benefit the broader community

• 76% believed the precinct would improve the amenity of the surrounding area

A Word from the Critics

Despite widespread support, the proposal has also attracted criticism from some community stakeholders.

Concerns have been raised around the potential scale of future development, including speculation surrounding high-rise buildings within the precinct.

Nearby sporting organisations, including the Gold Coast Gymnastics Club at Pizzey Park, have also expressed concerns about the potential impact on existing facilities and the lack of certainty around relocation planning.

But a life lived in fear is a life half lived, and the Council has stated that broader master planning for the area is underway, with community feedback shaping the project as it progresses.

The Next Act

The current EOI process is seeking organisations with expertise in large-scale mixed-use development, investment precinct delivery and creative industry integration.

Submissions close on July 31, with shortlisted proponents expected to move through the next phase before a development partner is selected in mid-2027. Redevelopment of the site could begin as early as 2028.

Come what may, the Gold Coast is clearly aiming for a starring role in the future of Australia's screen and creative industries.