Global investment giant Blackstone has struck an agreement to acquire Hamilton Island—one of Australia’s most iconic resort destinations—in a deal valued at roughly A$1.2 billion. The transaction marks one of the largest private‑sector investments in the country’s tourism and hospitality sector and signals rising international interest in premium experiential assets.
The island, located in Queensland’s Whitsundays and set amid the World Heritage‑listed Great Barrier Reef, has been owned by the Oatley family since 2003. Over two decades, the family transformed the 2,800‑acre property into a world‑class resort hub featuring five hotels, more than 20 restaurants, a marina, a commercial airport, and an 18‑hole championship golf course on neighbouring Dent Island.
Blackstone said the acquisition—still subject to customary regulatory approvals—builds on its expanding Asia‑Pacific hospitality portfolio and reinforces its long‑term confidence in Australia’s tourism market. Industry analysts note that the record‑setting price sets a new benchmark for island resort valuations and could reshape future investment appetite across the region.
The Queensland government is now reviewing the deal, which is expected to influence both local tourism strategy and broader market dynamics as global capital continues to flow into high‑value Australian destinations.
