New figures released today show Australia’s visitor economy received a welcome boost in April, with the spend on domestic overnight tourism reaching a record $10.1 billion for the month. This eclipsed the pre-pandemic April 2019 spend figure by $2.4 billion – and it’s also the highest spend since Tourism Research Australia (TRA) began reporting monthly figures in January 2019.
Although visitor numbers were slightly down on pre-pandemic times, tourists spent more on accommodation, food and drink, and shopping. The national average spend per night was up $63 to $253, while the average spend per trip was up $252 to $939.
Capital cities vs the regions
Results were strong all states and territories apart from the Northern Territory.
Capital cities recorded 4 million overnight visitors and a $4.1 billion spend during April. Regional areas also continued to perform well, with a higher spend compensating for a slight drop in overnight visitors. Australians also spent $2.3 billion on 17.3 million day trips in April 2022.
An encouraging sign
Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell said the figures were an encouraging sign that recovery is underway.
“The April figures are welcome news for Australia’s hard working tourism operators,” he said. “We know there are still challenges and much work ahead, yet we’re getting on with the job. As the fourth largest Australian export, a healthy tourism sector is vital to Australia’s economy. It’s crucial that we support its recovery.”
The April 2022 National Visitor Survey results produced by Austrade’s TRA can be accessed here.
