Tourism Research Australia (TRA) has released its annual Benchmark Report for the visitor economy.
It shows Australia’s visitor economy continued to show strong momentum in 2025. Total visitor spending reached $192.4 billion, up 6.5 per cent on 2024, driven by solid domestic travel activity and rising international expenditure.
International visitors to Australia typically stayed for longer and spent more in 2025 than previous years; domestic day trips grew strongly and were a major contributor to tourism in 2025; and nearly half of domestic overnight spending during the period occurred in regional Australia.
On the supply side, industry capacity grew. Accommodation room numbers, flight route connectivity, tourism employment and tourism business numbers all increased in 2025. Investment in tourism infrastructure also grew, signalling confidence to invest in the sector’s long‑term growth.
TRA said key milestones facilitating growth in 2026 would include the opening of Western Sydney International Airport, increased aviation capacity from the Asia-Pacific and investment in hotels and accommodation.
Domestically, TRA said Australians are showing an enduring willingness to travel. Despite household financial challenges, they are continuing to prioritise travel, with slight changes in behaviour including shorter trips, trips closer to home, and an increase in day trips in response to economic conditions.
These trips are becoming more multi-purpose, seeking combinations of connection, adventure, wellness, and quality food experiences.
TRA will host a Benchmark Report webinar on 22 June 2026.
Learn more about the report and register for the webinar here.
