NSW and Sydney Shatter Tourism Records with Unprecedented Domestic and International Travel Spending

Sydney. Source: Destination NSW

New South Wales (NSW) and Sydney are making waves in the tourism world, setting new benchmarks in domestic travel spending and international visitation. With a thriving visitor economy, remarkable recovery post-pandemic, and a focus on diverse travel experiences, the region has cemented itself as Australia’s top travel destination.

Record-Breaking Domestic Spending

In the year ending September 2024, NSW achieved a historic $31.3 billion in domestic overnight expenditure, a clear testament to its allure among Australian travelers. Meanwhile, Sydney set its own record with $15.8 billion in domestic spending, driven by an array of attractions, vibrant cultural events, and its position as the gateway to Australia.

Destination NSW Acting CEO Stephen Mahoney remarked:

“NSW continues to draw visitors seeking authentic connections with local culture and natural wonders, making it the top choice for Australians, despite cost-of-living pressures.”

Surging International Visitors

The international visitor recovery has been equally impressive. In the year ending September 2024:

• NSW welcomed 3.7 million international visitors, an 18.4% increase from the previous year, reaching 84% of pre-pandemic levels.
• Visitor nights and expenditure surpassed pre-2019 levels, showcasing robust demand for NSW’s offerings.
• Key markets like South Korea and Vietnam have not only recovered but surged past pre-pandemic levels, with expenditure growth of 151% and 141%, respectively.

With additional flights introduced by Turkish Airlines and Juneyao Air, Sydney Airport anticipates a record-breaking summer, expecting 5.8 million passengers from December 13, 2024, to January 27, 2025.

Regional NSW: A Star Performer

Regional NSW continues to outshine other Australian destinations, recording 64.6 million international and domestic visitors who spent $26.2 billion, a remarkable 30.7% increase compared to 2019.

The North Coast emerged as a hotspot for domestic travel:

• Overnight visitor numbers rose by 5.8%, and spending increased to $4.8 billion.
• Iconic destinations like Byron Bay saw renewed interest, with road trips becoming the quintessential Aussie experience.

Brenda Miley, Director of Let’s Go Surfing Byron Bay Surf School, shared:

“The iconic road trip to Byron Bay is the quintessential Aussie summer experience. Instead of looking overseas, Aussies are turning to good, old-fashioned fun in the sun here on the North Coast.”

The Numbers That Define Success

Here’s a snapshot of NSW’s extraordinary achievements:

73.1% average monthly accommodation occupancy statewide, with a daily rate of $257.9.
• 50% of the revised 2035 international expenditure target achieved in 2024 alone.
• 37.7 million visitors engaged in outdoor activities, highlighting the state’s natural beauty.
Caravan and camping experiences attracted five million visitors, who spent 19 million nights in NSW.

Why NSW Stands Out

From Sydney’s bustling cityscape to the pristine beaches and lush hinterlands of regional NSW, the state offers a mix of world-class culture, adventure, and relaxation. Whether exploring Sydney’s iconic Opera House or enjoying the North Coast’s surf, there’s something for everyone.

Mahoney credits the success to the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy, which aims for an ambitious $91 billion in annual tourism spending by 2035. The state’s focus on “experience-led tourism” ensures visitors enjoy unique, meaningful, and memorable journeys.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for NSW Tourism

As international arrivals continue to climb and Australians prioritize local travel, NSW’s visitor economy is set to soar further. With exceptional accommodations, a rich cultural scene, and breathtaking natural landscapes, it’s no surprise NSW remains the premier destination for domestic and international travelers alike.

Plan your NSW adventure today and discover why this vibrant state is setting the benchmark for tourism success.