People travel domestically to the Gold Coast in winter, same as people traditionally go to Florida in the US, to escape the cold weather. No one goes to Queensland in Summer when it's bloody hot 😂

It helps that the seasons and school holidays are six months out of phase compared to the US and Canada. In essence, you're comparing Australian winter prices with American summer prices.

You mean they're more expensive in the US/CA?

You're right that they tend to work out at AUD150, although obviously area factors into it a lot (an AUD150 hotel in bush Queensland will get you two beds, an ensuite, laundry and aircon. AUD150 in a capital city will have you in someone's basement with questionable hygiene). Forget any hotel at major tourist attractions at that price.

12 years ago, give or take, the AUD exchange rate was at about parity with the USD. Now it's around 0.66

Enjoy Australia while it's nice and low - and tariff free!