Tourism Research Australia data shows strong rebound in regional areas

Data released today by Austrade’s Tourism Research Australia shows regional tourism has rebounded with the data highlighting the economic value of tourism grew in 97% of Australia’s regions in 2022-23.

More than half of regional communities experienced growth of above 50% on the previous year.

It is clear that tourism continues to be the lifeblood of Australia’s regions, with the sector directly accounting for 6.7% of jobs versus 2.9% in capital cities.

Regions benefiting the most from tourism include:

• Kangaroo Island in South Australia – with tourism revenue accounting for 27% of the region’s local economy and 38% of all jobs on the island.

• Phillip Island in Victoria – with tourism revenue accounting for 18% of the region’s local economy and 30% of all jobs on the island.

• Queensland’s Whitsundays – with tourism revenue accounting for 12% of the region’s local economy and 22% of all jobs.

The Australian Government wants workers, businesses, and communities across every part of our country to benefit from tourism, and the investment it brings.

Significant upgrades to affordable accommodation in regional Australia have been made through the Australian Government’s $10 million Caravan Parks Grants Program, which has enabled operators to improve their facilities and amenities to attract more visitors.

In addition, round one of the Government’s Growing Regions Program has allocated more than $116 million in tourism related funding for community and economic infrastructure projects across regional and rural Australia.

Data by Austrade’s Tourism Research Australia (TRA) can be viewed on the Tourism Research Australia website.

Image. Credit: Visit Whitsundays