Australia’s $315BN Travel Boom
Australia’s Travel & Tourism sector is set for another record-breaking year in 2025, set to inject $314.4BN into the national economy, according to new figures from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
The latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) from the global tourism body shows the sector is forecast to rise almost a third above pre-pandemic levels – equivalent to 11.4% of GDP. This strong growth reflects the continued recovery and resilience of Australia’s tourism economy, with a boost from international demand and a thriving domestic travel market.
In 2025, the Travel & Tourism is projected to support 1.7MN jobs, representing over 11.5% of national employment, and 100,000 more jobs than last year. Visitor spending continues to rise across the board, with international visitor spending predicted to reach $39BN, nearly 22% above 2024, setting a record new milestone for Australia. Domestic visitor spending is forecast to climb to almost $173BN.
Together, these figures underscore Australia’s status as a top-tier global destination, known for its diverse natural landscapes, cultural experiences, and world-class tourism infrastructure.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said “Australia is proving once again that it is a powerhouse for Travel & Tourism. This record contribution to the economy and workforce reflects years of collaboration between industry and government.
“I was delighted to see this momentum firsthand in Perth last year when Tourism Western Australia hosted WTTC’s Global Summit – a clear signal of the country’s leadership in the global tourism sector.
“From the cities to the outback, and coast to coast, Australia offers unforgettable experiences. With continued investment in connectivity, sustainability, and experience design, the outlook for the next decade is incredibly promising.”
Reflecting on 2024
In 2024, Australia’s Travel & Tourism sector contributed $297BN to the national economy and supported 1.6MN jobs. International visitor spending totalled $32.1BN and domestic visitor spending reached $123.7BN, making up the lion’s share of the recovery.
Looking Ahead to 2035
WTTC forecasts that by 2035, the sector will contribute over $406BN to Australia’s economy, an almost 12% share of GDP, and support more than 2.1MN jobs. Visitor spending is also expected to grow steadily. International visitor spending is forecast reach more than $52BN while domestic visitor spending is projected to hit almost $221BN.
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