Fees · Destination Guide
Tide-timed shore dives, turtle day trips, and easy access to surf, rainforest, and city comfort
Key fee: Australia ETA (subclass 601) service fee
AUD $20 (ETA app service fee, where applicable)
Updated Jan 23, 2026 • 23 sources
Confirm these fees before you book so your operator plan and day budget match what you will pay onsite.
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. |
Fee
Varies by visa type and grant
Check the official Department of Home Affairs guidance for your passport nationality and intended length of stay.
N/A
The inner zone is a no-take sanctuary. Do not take or disturb marine life, and do not feed fish or use berley.
Always
Historic wrecks are protected. Do not remove artifacts, and avoid damaging structure with poor buoyancy or anchoring.
Per booking
If you plan an overnight Hinterland or island camping extension, book in advance, especially during holidays.