Coe said Australia's ability to host major sporting events was highlighted by their efforts at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney.

"This is rare praise from a Pom [Australian slang for English person] but you guys do this stuff well," he said according to the Sydney Morning Herald.

"You raised the bar in Sydney and I, of all people, understand that because 12 years later I was responsible for delivering another Summer Games.

"There was a party atmosphere and Sydney embraced it.

"I'm looking forward to the Commonwealth Games.

"I know you guys will host it very, very well."

The IAAF President also launched a staunch defence of the Commonwealth Games following claims that it no longer holds much relevance.

"Let's be clear, athletics is a global sport and if you're competing at the Commonwealth Games, you're coming up against some of the best in the world," he said.

"These are world-class champions and a large part of the history of our sport has stemmed from the Commonwealth Games.

"There have been some great moments.

"Commonwealth athletics is very, very important."

Coe also commented on doping in sports and spoke about reforms that the IAAF were introducing to combat it.

"A large part of the reforms we've pushed through was the creation of the Independent Integrity Unit, which really has very dramatically changed our approach to testing," he said.

"The athletes have really got to understand that we're in their corner here.

"We can't, just by conscience, encourage athletes into our sport if we're not creating the levelest playing field we possibly can for them."

Gold Coast 2018 will take place from April 4 to 15.