K’gari-Fraser Island set to welcome its first five-star resort

Fraser Island is a place of remarkable beauty. Now known by its traditional name K’gari, the landscape is dotted with towering dunes, freshwater lakes and forests teeming with life.

Though nature is certainly a huge drawcard (it is the world’s largest sand island after all), the indigenous history is just as captivating, and a new luxury resort promises to showcase it all. 

Billed as an “uber-luxury resort”, the as-yet-unnamed project – a joint venture between Melbourne architecture firm Chiodo and K’Gari Educational and Cultural Centre Aboriginal Corporation (KECCAC), established by one of the Butchella family groups on the island – is expected to open in 2026, pending approval.

The $250 million resort will raise the bar for the island's hotel scene.

Situated in a coveted location facing the endless Pacific Ocean, the development will feature 62 luxury villas, 64 premium suites and multiple restaurants, together with a beach club-style bar and rooftop for soaking up the island vibe.

Fringed by sun lounges and umbrellas, the curvaceous main pool is destined to be a popular hangout.

The resort's design is overflowing with greenery.

Butchella elder Norman Barney believes the resort will deliver huge benefits to the island, not only employment but an opportunity to showcase the local culture. Developers say the resort’s design will involve close collaboration with the Butchella community.

It’ll be a significant boost to K’gari’s hotel offerings too, which currently max out at four stars.

A beachside amphitheatre will feature live performances and storytelling.

Paul Chiodo, CEO of Chiodo, says he’s delighted to team up with the Butchulla people to develop a hotel not only bringing five star comfort to the island but also promoting its cultural and environmental values.

“Our vision is to deliver a culturally-significant and environmentally-conscious hotel that still has all the hallmarks of a luxury hotel and there is no better way to ensure this is done authentically and impactfully than to do it with involvement with K’Gari’s traditional owners, the Butchella people,” he explains.

Indigenous culture will be on full display through architecture and interactive experiences.

Guests will be able to learn more about the island’s rich indigenous heritage through music and dance performances, smoking ceremonies and storytelling at the amphitheatre, along with painting and basket weaving lessons in the resort’s design studio.

Beachfront dining with private huts will also be part of its offering.

While plans are yet to be approved, Chiodo has received initial support from the Fraser Coast Council and the Queensland government as the resort has the potential to provide significant economic benefits to the area.