As the state capital of Queensland, Brisbane is a key economic hub and visitor destination. One of the fastest growing cities in Australia, Brisbane is becoming an increasingly popular relocation destination, drawing increasing numbers of business travellers every year. Planning a business trip to Brisbane? Read our guide below for all you need to know.
Key Information
Flight Time: Around 22 hours from the UK
Nearest Airport: Brisbane Airport (BNE/YBBN)
Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
Language: English
Time Difference: GMT +9, Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST)
Visa: British Citizens can usually obtain an electronic visa which is valid for twelve months and you can stay for up to three months at a time.
Plan your Travel to Brisbane
Brisbane is on the East coast of Australia, in the sunshine state of Queensland. Brisbane Airport is less than twenty kilometres from Brisbane CBD and it takes around twenty minutes by taxi or Airtrain. The airport sees both domestic and international flights. Singapore Airlines, Emirates and Qatar Airways fly to Brisbane from London, Heathrow with one stop in either Singapore, Dubai, or Doha. These flights usually take around twenty-five hours depending on how long the stopover is. If you are travelling from elsewhere in Australia, Brisbane is well connected to other Australian cities by road and rail. Highway One runs along the East Coast route connecting key Australian locations including Brisbane. There is also a train linking Brisbane to Cairns in the north and Sydney in the south.
Getting Around Brisbane
Brisbane is generally an easy city to navigate around and explore. If you are on a business trip to Brisbane, you’ll find public transport is good and there are buses, trains and ferries you can use to get around the city. If you are going to be using public transport regularly it is worth purchasing a ‘go’ card which can be used on all the above modes. You simply add funds onto the card then scan it when using the transport method of your choice. Brisbane is also a great city to explore by foot or on a bicycle. The pretty promenade that runs next to the river is great for walking, jogging, or cycling, and it a great way to take in the sights Brisbane CBD has to offer.
Dress for the weather
Brisbane has a subtropical climate and usually sees warm sunshine all year round. Due to the warm temperatures and humidity, especially in the summer, business travellers tend to opt for business casual attire rather than suits, although this can depend on the industry.
Dining out in Brisbane
Brisbane is a melting pot of cultures, and this is reflected in the food scene. There’s a vast array of restaurants specialising in dishes from all over the world, and to suit a range of budgets. Whether you are looking for a venue for a quick business lunch or something special for an evening soiree, Brisbane has it all. Some of our favourite restaurants in Brisbane are:
Moda for an authentic Mediterranean lunch, Sono Japanese Restaurant for fresh Sushi, La Vue Waterfront Restaurant for a memorable meal with stunning riverside views, and Lamberts Restaurant for a range of delicious contemporary Australian dishes.
Accommodation in Brisbane
When on a business trip to Brisbane it is worth researching the area in which you will be spending most of your time. If you like to be close to the Central Business District, SilverDoor has a wide range of serviced apartments in the centre of the city. If you prefer a more residential area, SilverDoor also has a selection of serviced apartments in the suburbs. Serviced apartments are the ideal solution for business travellers as they come with extra facilities as standard including kitchen facilities, a washing machine, work desk and often even a separate lounge area. When travelling with co-workers or family, two- and three-bedroom apartments could be ideal. Some of our favourite serviced apartments in Brisbane are:
iStay River City Brisbane Apartments, which are centrally located and nestled between Brisbane City Hall and Brisbane City Botanic Gardens. These spacious apartments offer a tranquil escape in the city. Onsite there is a swimming pool and fitness centre.
Quest Breakfast Creek Apartments – these modern apartments are well equipped with everything you need for a business stay in Brisbane. A range of apartment types are available which make them ideal for those travelling with family, and they are Located just a 10 minutes drive from Brisbane Airport.
Business in Brisbane? View our full range of serviced apartments in Brisbane.
Sights to see in Brisbane
Whether you are on a business trip to Brisbane or relocating to the Sunshine State there are some keys sights worth visiting during your time in the city.
Explore the South Bank. The South Bank is a key cultural hub in Brisbane, with a whole host of sights and venues including the Gallery of Modern Art, Queensland Museum and Science centre, and Brisbane convention and exhibition centre. You’ll also find the bustling city beach, scenic gardens and a range of bars and restaurants.
Brisbane Botanic Gardens
The subtropical Botanic gardens in Brisbane were founded in 1970 and are open 356 days a year. The 56-hectare site is filled with parks, lakes and wildlife and makes an idyllic site to wander. The gardens also have a range of sights and attractions perfect for children and families too.
Take in the vista from mount Coot-Tha
Next to Brisbane Botanic Gardens you’ll find Mt Coot-tha lookout. This is the highest point in Brisbane and provides stunning panoramic views of the city and Moreton Bay. There is even a café at the summit and a range of walking trails you can take to explore the area.
Relax on a River Cruise
The River Brisbane runs right through the centre of the city so a river cruise is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of Brisbane from the water. A sunset dinner cruise is a memorable experience and a great way to impress any potential business clients.
Shop at the Farmers Market
For fresh produce nothing beats Brisbane farmers markets. Bringing home grown country produce into the city, visitors will find hundreds of stalls with everything from fruit and veg, flowers, meats and cheeses. It is the perfect place to pick up some local delicacies to enjoy in your serviced apartment during your business trip to Brisbane. The Brisbane City Farmers Market is held every Wednesday in Brisbane Square. Be sure not to miss the Saturday Fresh Market in Rocklea, either!
Top Tips for your Business Trip to Brisbane
Check the time zone – Queensland does not observe daylight savings time unlike some other Australian states.
If you are going to be using public transport it could be worth purchasing a go card. This is a top-up card that can be used on Translink bus, train, ferry and tram services across Brisbane.
Pack sunscreen - Brisbane has a subtropical climate and can be warm and sunny all year round. The UV index can be high so it's advisable to wear sun cream all year.
If you are still looking for accommodation in Brisbane, we have a great selection of serviced apartments throughout the city, perfect for long- and short-term stays. Contact our friendly team today for more information.
