The bustling commercial hub of Southport offers some of the city's most comprehensive retail complexes and dining venues. Along with several language schools, the suburb houses campuses of Griffith University and Gold Coast TFE. Two of Queensland most prestigious private schools, St Hilda's & TSS are found here, as well as many legal firms and the district courts.

Always a major medical precinct, Southport will benefit from the upgrade of the existing Gold Coast Hospital, plus the development of the new $1.7 billion University Hospital in neighbouring Parkwood adjacent to the main Griffith campus. Soon to be linked to these landmark institutions by the new $950 million light rail system, Southport is firmly placed at the centre of Gold Coast commercial and community activities.

The area also offers many unique natural and man-made assets, including the beautiful Broadwater, now fringed by the innovative Broadwater Parklands, incorporating acres of landscaped open space, a children's playground, public swimming pool complex, bike paths and walkways, boat ramps, picnic areas and calmwater beaches.