The tourism sector has welcomed new figures revealing international tourist numbers are nearing closer to pre-pandemic levels with visitor spending on the rise, but warns Australia still faces stiff competition from overseas tourism destinations.

Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) Australia CEO Margy Osmond said it was heartening to see improvements in spend, trips and nights stayed by international visitors in new data released today by Tourism Research Australia.

“This is great news for Australian tourism businesses and the hundreds of thousands of people they employ across the country,” Ms Osmond said.

“It’s fantastic to see more visitors from China coming to our shores, which is now our second largest market, and we’re also seeing big opportunities for our tourism operators from fast growing visitor markets like South Korea, India and Indonesia.”

“Our destination agencies and governments have been working hard to attract more visitors from right around the world to come and see the unique beauty of Australia, to enjoy our spectacular cities as well as regional areas across the country.”

However, Ms Osmond conceded that Australia is still facing the most competitive global tourism market ever seen.

“It’s important to remember Australia’s tourism industry is still grappling with significant challenges since the pandemic, whether from the impacts of severe weather in certain states, the rising cost of living putting pressure on businesses as well as traveller budgets, or the skills shortage still hurting our sector,” she said.

“We must continue to ensure tourism and related industries receive the support they need in order to thrive and make a significant contribution to the national economy.”

“While today’s figures are certainly encouraging, industry and government must continue to work together to help address these challenges and ensure Australia remains a leading global tourism destination.”

ENDS