TTF: Mining Malaise Countered By Strong Tourism Export Growth

The rise in international tourist numbers, length of stay and spending again illustrates the ability of Australia’s tourism sector to provide economic activity throughout Australia as the mining boom wanes, according to Tourism and Transport Forum’s (TTF) assessment of Tourism Research Australia’s latest International Visitor Survey (IVS) and Balance of Payments figures.

The IVS shows international arrivals have risen 4.1 per cent for the first three quarters of 2012, with visitor nights 5.3 per cent higher and spending growing by 3.8 per cent.

In the September quarter, international visitor numbers rose 4.9 per cent, with visitor nights up 11.7 per cent and spending up 10.4 per cent compared to the same period last year.

TTF Chief Executive John Lee said the signs are positive.

“The good news is that despite weak global economic conditions and the strong Australian dollar more people are coming to Australia,” Mr Lee said.

“What this shows is that Australia is a desirable destination with world-class tourism products, accommodation, attractions and experiences.

“Holiday visitors have grown 4.2 per cent so far this year, underscoring the value of promoting Australia internationally.

 
“The relative strength of the Australian economy is also having an impact, with the number of international visitors coming to Australia for employment purposes jumping 14.7 per cent in the first nine months of 2012, with nights up 25.7 per cent and spending up 20.7 per cent.”

Mr Lee said the IVS is not the only indicator showing the growth in tourism.

“The latest Balance of Payment figures show tourism is the shining light of Australian exports for the September quarter, increasing 4.0 per cent, compared to a 16.0 per cent fall in mining exports and an overall decline in total Australian exports of 8.9 per cent,” Mr Lee said.

“This underscores the value of tourism to the Australian economy, the need to ensure we continue to invest in new and improved accommodation and attractions, and to improve the competitiveness of Australia as a tourism destination.