KPAT Hotels has officially opened the Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel, adding 180 new rooms to the Sunshine Coast and marking the first full-service internationally branded hotel to launch in the region in more than 40 years.
The 12-storey property was formally unveiled this morning by KPAT Hotels Managing Director Kenneth Wagner, alongside Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli, Queensland Tourism Industry Council CEO Natassia Wheeler, and representatives from Tourism and Events Queensland and Visit Sunshine Coast.
Developed, owned and operated by Queensland-based KPAT Hotels under a franchise agreement with Minor Hotels, the project represents a major addition to the state’s tourism infrastructure at a time of sustained long-term demand growth.
Wagner said the opening shifts the ongoing discussion about accommodation shortages in Queensland into tangible delivery.
He noted that while there has been consistent recognition of the need for new hotel developments, particularly in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, this project demonstrates that delivery is achievable when development processes and models are reconsidered.
He added that the hotel introduces 180 new rooms in a high-demand leisure destination at a critical time when additional capacity is required.
Wagner also emphasised that KPAT Hotels has taken a long-term investment approach to the Sunshine Coast, with the aim of strengthening the region’s ability to attract higher-yield leisure travellers, business events and consistent year-round visitation.
According to Wheeler, developments such as Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel directly support the state’s visitor economy and help maintain Queensland’s competitiveness as a tourism destination.
The hotel opening coincides with broader infrastructure investment across the Sunshine Coast.
Key projects include the Mooloolaba Foreshore Revitalisation Project, which is set to expand beachfront parkland, improve public access and enhance coastal protection.
In parallel, the Sunshine Coast Airport is undergoing a 170 million dollar terminal redevelopment aimed at accommodating rising passenger numbers and strengthening both domestic and international connectivity.
Together, these developments position the region for continued growth in tourism, major events and related economic activity.
Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel contributes to the region’s limited supply of full-service accommodation, providing essential infrastructure to support both leisure travellers and business visitors.
Wagner noted that the impact of the project extends beyond the hotel itself, with benefits flowing through employment, supply chains and increased visitor spending.
He added that the development supports local producers, hospitality workers and tourism operators across the Sunshine Coast.