Australia is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cities. The tourism industry is a significant contributor to the country’s economy and has been growing steadily over the years.
Overview of the Tourism Industry in Australia
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the tourism industry contributed AUD 60.8 billion to the country’s economy in 2019-20. This accounted for approximately 3% of Australia’s GDP and supported around 5% of total employment.
International Tourism
International tourism is a major source of revenue for Australia. In 2019-20, international visitors spent AUD 30.2 billion in the country, which was a decrease of 18% compared to the previous year due to travel restrictions caused by COVID-19.
The top five source countries for international visitors were:
- China
- New Zealand
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Japan
However, due to border closures and other restrictions, international arrivals fell by more than 80% in 2020 compared to the previous year.
Domestic Tourism
Domestic tourism is also an essential part of Australia’s tourism industry. In 2019-20, Australians spent AUD 73.5 billion on domestic overnight trips and day trips.
The most popular destinations for domestic tourists were:
- New South Wales
- Queensland
- Victoria
- Western Australia
- Tasmania
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on domestic tourism as well, with travel restrictions and border closures leading to a sharp decline in domestic travel in 2020.
The Future of Tourism in Australia
The tourism industry in Australia has faced significant challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the country’s successful management of the pandemic has positioned it well for recovery.
The Australian government has announced several measures to support the tourism industry, including:
- Financial assistance for tourism businesses
- Promoting domestic travel through marketing campaigns
- Supporting regional tourism
- Developing new tourism products and experiences
Experts predict that the tourism industry will recover gradually over the next few years, with domestic travel leading the way. The reopening of international borders will also be critical for the industry’s long-term growth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the tourism industry is a vital contributor to Australia’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs and generating billions of dollars in revenue. While it has been impacted by COVID-19, there are positive signs for recovery, and the Australian government is taking steps to support the industry’s rebound.