Destination NSW has strengthened the state’s position as Australia’s number one destination for youth travel with a Youth Tourism Product Showcase.

Held in partnership with Youth Tourism NSW, the appointment-based event connected visitor economy businesses with destination marketing experts. It provided an opportunity for operators to build relationships and leverage opportunities in this thriving tourism sector.

Businesses showcased their youth-focused products to the Destination NSW marketing and product development teams. Participants included Local Sauce Tours, Wake Up!, YHA Australia, Tourism Adventure Group (representing Nomads, Mojo Surf and Work & Travel Company), Spaceships Rentals, Colourful Collective Travel, Surf Camp Australia and Ultimate Travel.

NSW is Australia’s leading destination for domestic overnight and international visitors aged between 15 and 29.

Tourism Research Australia data shows the state welcomed 8.1 million domestic overnight youth tourism visitors in 2024, who stayed 23.5 million nights and spent $4.8 billion (up 5.4 per cent year-on-year).

NSW attracted 57 per cent of international youth tourism visitors to Australia in 2024. Visitation surged to 1.2 million (up 15.4 per cent year-on-year) during the period, with travellers staying 53.8 million nights (up 22.4 per cent year-on-year) and spending $6.7 billon (up 14.1 per cent year-on-year).

Destination NSW CEO Karen Jones said:“Destination NSW is proud to support visitor economy businesses across the state to develop high-quality, competitive tourism offerings that resonate strongly with today’s travellers.

“Youth tourism will play a crucial role in achieving the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy’s goal of $91 billion in expenditure by 2035 and Destination NSW was thrilled to partner with Youth Tourism NSW to expand opportunitiesin the sector.

“Gen Z travellers are driving a global shift toward deeper, more meaningful tourism experiences. They areseeking genuine connections with destinations and NSW is well-positioned to lead this evolution.”

Top 10 international youth markets for NSW

1. China

2. United Kingdom

3. New Zealand

4. United States

5. Japan

6. South Korea

7. Germany

8. France

9. India

10. Taiwan

NSW number one for international students

NSW is also Australia’s top study destination for international students, who spend more than any other international visitor segment.

International education is a key focus of the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy and its goal of $91 billion in annual visitor expenditure by 2035.

International students fuel demand for accommodation, retail and hospitality, while visits from friends and family create additional economic benefits, particularly in regional NSW.

Study NSW has invited international students to share their experiences to help improve services, support and information in the sector via its International Student Sentiment Survey 2025.

Complete the survey here.