Feeling overwhelmed and in need of a dose of vitamin sea? New research highlights the Gen Z burnout epidemic, and Virgin Australia reckons Queensland is the remedy.
The Virgin Australia x YouGov survey shows 63 per cent of Gen Z Aussies under 28 feel physically and mentally exhausted, even after taking time out to rest.
In great news for the travel and tourism industry, almost all (95%) respondents believe holidays are the ultimate cure for Gen Z burnout for restoring their wellbeing with 96 per cent seeing Queensland as a desirable holiday destination, which tracks with national sentiment.
Queensland has emerged as top of mind among this younger cohort due to its accessibility (53%), affordability (51%), proximity (40%) and climate (39%).
The top experiences Gen Z associates with the ideal Sunshine State holiday are beaches (46%), ocean swimming and snorkelling (40%), poolside cocktails (40%) and special events and unique experiences (29%), such as music festivals and reef tours.
Those who believe holidays restore their physical or mental wellbeing and address Gen Z burnout are more likely to prefer a week or longer for a recovery holiday (58%), reinforcing that longer stays in Queensland are the best way to recharge.
From Gen Z burnout to Queensland break
Youth mental health non-profit ALLKND Founder Milly Rose Bannister said nine in 10 Gen Z Australians are running on empty and feel burnt out.
“What we’re craving is not just rest, but a true reset. Sometimes that looks like lying on a golden beach and finally switching off. Other times it’s about unlocking joy, curiosity and energy again through new experiences,” she said.
“When young people are this overloaded, changing your environment, even for a few days, can be a genuine circuit-breaker. That’s what helps clear the brain fog, ease the pressure and remind us what it feels like to come back to ourselves,” Bannister said.
Virgin Australia CMO Libby Minogue said Gen Z is leading the micro-holiday trend with 52 per cent saying a trip of five days or less is enough to recharge.
“As a Queensland-based business, we’ve seen the restorative power of heading north for a break. Whether it’s exploring the golden beaches of Gold Coast, lush rainforest in Cairns or sipping cocktails by the river in Brisbane, Queensland offers the perfect antidote to whatever’s weighing you down,” she said.
