Queensland, home to over 5.5 million residents, is Australia’s third-largest state, with a population concentrated along its eastern coastline, particularly in South East Queensland. Brisbane, the state's capital, stands as Australia’s third-largest city. Queensland is a major urban hub, with ten of Australia’s thirty largest cities, including the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Townsville, Cairns, Ipswich, and Toowoomba, forming key centers of population and economic activity. Notably, 24.2% of the state's population was born overseas, contributing to Queensland’s rich multicultural landscape. The state also leads the country in interstate net migration, showcasing its status as a top destination for Australians relocating from other states.

Historically, Queensland was first inhabited by Aboriginal Australians, with the Torres Strait Islands home to the Torres Strait Islanders. The state saw its first European exploration in 1606 when Dutch navigator Willem Janszoon landed on the Cape York Peninsula. However, it was British explorer James Cook who claimed the east coast for Britain in 1770. In 1824, the Moreton Bay Penal Settlement was established in Brisbane, marking the beginning of European settlement in the area. During the 19th century, colonization led to violent conflicts with Aboriginal populations, resulting in the deaths of tens of thousands of Indigenous Australians.

On June 6, 1859, Queensland separated from New South Wales, becoming a self-governing colony. This day, now commemorated as Queensland Day, marked the establishment of Queensland as a separate entity under British rule. The colony's economy initially relied heavily on the exploitation of South Sea Islanders, with blackbirding slavery playing a role in the workforce.

Queensland joined the Federation of Australia on January 1, 1901, becoming one of the founding states of the newly formed Commonwealth of Australia. Throughout the 20th century, particularly during the Bjelke-Petersen era, the state experienced a significant influx of internal migration, which continues today as people from across Australia are drawn to Queensland for its quality of life and economic opportunities.

Today, Queensland boasts the third-largest economy among Australian states, driven by sectors such as mining, agriculture, transportation, international education, insurance, and banking. The state is also known for its booming tourism industry, thanks to its tropical and subtropical climates, the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, and stunning beaches. With its dynamic mix of population growth, history, and economic strength, Queensland remains a key player in Australia’s national landscape.