'Sunshine State' is not just the slogan on most Queensland vehicle number-plates, it's also the current vibe in the air and in the economy.

Geared for growth

Indicators point to Queensland displaying the fastest economic growth rate across the country, according to the latest Commsec State of the States report. Queensland economic growth was up 4.2% from this same period in 2013, and is gearing up to fulfil forecasts that put the state as the fastest growing into 2014/2015 as well.

"Queensland is leading the way in business investment, with spending in the 2013 September quarter almost 27 per cent above decade-average levels," explained state Premier, Campbell Newman.

"Meanwhile, improvements in the housing sector and increased retail and tourism spending mean more jobs are being created across the state".

January 2014 "ABS data showed three-quarters of all the jobs created in Australia in the year to December were created in Queensland."

"The CommSec report has found retail spending in Queensland is up 14.7 per cent on decade average levels as both consumers and businesses continue to show sustained optimism, while tourism is also improving," summarised Acting Treasurer John McVeigh, citing massive LNP projects in development as positive examples of investment into the state.

Population power

A healthy economy also needs people to power it ... and that means sustained population growth.

South-east Queensland is set to boom with a massive 480,000 houses more than the predicted 750,000 homes needed by 2040 to accommodate its growing population, according to senior infrastructure planners.

By 2041, the south-east corner of Queensland is forecast to be home to 5.5 million people (compared to 3.05 in 2011), a 15% higher growth rate than previously predicted.

Retail revival

You won't need to go Sydney or Melbourne to immerse yourself in fashion retail therapy, with popular global fashion 'heavyweights' Zara, H & M and Uniglo eyeing off prime locations in Brisbane's Queen St Mall and some high-end European fashion/jewellery houses making Brisbane their largest store presence in Australia.

This is just one example of the strength of the south-east Queensland retail market in the eyes of global companies.

These key factors present a sunny forecast for Queensland, and especially the south-east corner.