International Visitors 2011

2011 was national census year in Australia. As well as the permanent residents living here there were a total of 572,440 international visitors to NSW over the age of 55.in 2011. This figure has increased by 31 per cent since 2002. The average length of stay for this market is 14 nights and they made up 21 per cent of all international visitors to NSW in 2011. This has increased from 17 per cent in 2002.

In 2011, 41 per cent of the over 55s travelled alone and 40 per cent travelled as a couple. This means that 19 percent travelled as part of a group.

More than half (55%) of the over 55 international visitors to NSW travelled for holidays and 41 per cent were visiting friends and relatives. Only eight per cent of visitors were travelling for business.

The internet was the most popular source of information with 32 per cent of international visitors over the age of 55 using this medium. The second most popular source of information was from a friend or relative that lives in Australia.

Eighty-five per cent of international visitors to NSW aged over 55 ate out at restaurants during their trip to Australia with the second most popular activity being sightseeing, followed by shopping and going to the beach.