Australia’s visitor economy hits record $192. 4 billion in 2025 - Travel Monitor
Australia’s visitor economy generated a record $192. 4 billion in visitor spending in 2025, up 6. 5 per cent year-on-year, according to Tourism Research Australia’s Annual Benchmark Report 2025. The report. . .
Australia’s visitor economy generated a record $192. 4 billion in visitor spending in 2025, up 6. 5 per cent year-on-year, according to Tourism Research Australia’s Annual Benchmark Report 2025. The report highlights continued resilience across both domestic and international travel, with stronger visitor spending, increased aviation capacity and growing tourism investment helping drive industry growth despite ongoing economic challenges. International visitor expenditure reached a record $39. 2 billion in 2025, supported by 8. 9 million arrivals and strong growth from key source markets including the United Kingdom and China. Visitors stayed longer and spent more, with holiday travel, major events, education and visiting friends and relatives all contributing to the increase. Domestic travellers continue to back regional AustraliaDomestic travel remained the foundation of the visitor economy, with overnight trips holding steady at 113 million throughout 2025. While cost-of-living pressures continued to influence travel behaviour, Australians maintained a strong appetite for travel, favouring shorter trips, destinations closer to home and more affordable experiences. Domestic day trips recorded significant growth during the year. Regional Australia remained a major beneficiary, with almost half of all domestic overnight visitor spending occurring outside capital cities. The report noted that travellers are increasingly seeking multi-purpose holidays that combine relaxation, adventure, wellness and food experiences. Tourism capacity expands across the sectorThe report also found continued growth in tourism supply and infrastructure. Accommodation capacity increased to 340,662 rooms nationally, while average occupancy rose to 72 per cent. International aviation capacity climbed 7. 5 per cent to 27. 9 million seats, and tourism employment increased 4. 7 per cent to 736,800 jobs. Tourism investment grew strongly, with projects valued at more than $20 million reaching a combined $74. 5 billion, up 17. 5 per cent compared with 2024. Despite the positive results, the report identified ongoing challenges including workforce shortages, rising business costs and global economic uncertainty. Outlook remains positive despite global uncertaintyTourism Research Australia said the long-term outlook remains favourable, supported by major infrastructure projects including Western Sydney International Airport, expanded aviation connectivity from Asia-Pacific markets and continued investment in accommodation and tourism experiences. Australia’s reputation as a safe, reliable and sustainable destination is expected to remain a key competitive advantage as global travel demand continues to evolve. The report forecasts continued growth in international arrivals and visitor spending through to 2030, while domestic travel is expected to remain a vital contributor to regional economies nationwide. Tourism Research Australia will host a webinar on the report findings on 22 June 2026 from 14:00 to 15:00 AEST. For more information, visitTourism Research Australia