Fees · Destination Guide
Gold Coast Australia
Tide-timed shore dives, turtle day trips, and easy access to surf, rainforest, and city comfort
Updated Jan 23, 2026 • 23 sources
Fees And Permits
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
Fees You Can't Skip
- Australia ETA (subclass 601) service fee - AUD $20 (ETA app service fee, where applicable)
- Cook Island Aquatic Reserve access - Free
- Typical payment pattern: There is no destinationwide tourism levy or mandatory marine park tag specifically for recreational diving on the Gold Coast.
What people usually pay
There is no destination-wide tourism levy or mandatory marine park tag specifically for recreational diving on the Gold Coast. Instead, focus on area-specific rules: Cook Island Aquatic Reserve zoning (no-take inner sanctuary) and historic shipwreck protections. Additional permits may apply if you camp in national parks or undertake extractive activities like fishing outside sanctuary zones.
| Fee | Amount | Applies to | Where to pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Australia ETA (subclass 601) service fee | AUD $20 (ETA app service fee, where applicable) Varies by visa type and grant | Eligible nationalities using ETA (others may use eVisitor or visitor visas) | Where to pay | Check the official Department of Home Affairs guidance for your passport nationality and intended length of stay. |
| Cook Island Aquatic Reserve access | Free N/A | All visitors to the reserve | Where to pay | The inner zone is a no-take sanctuary. Do not take or disturb marine life, and do not feed fish or use berley. |
| Historic shipwreck protections (example: Scottish Prince) | Free Always | All divers visiting protected wrecks | N/A (rule, no permit sold) | Historic wrecks are protected. Do not remove artifacts, and avoid damaging structure with poor buoyancy or anchoring. |
| Queensland national park camping permits (optional) | Varies by park and campground Per booking | Overnight stays in designated Queensland parks and campgrounds | Where to pay | If you plan an overnight Hinterland or island camping extension, book in advance, especially during holidays. |