ADELAIDE, 16 January 2019: South Australia, the next host venue for the annual World Routes forum, has reported its visitor economy is soaring to an all-time-high of AUD6.9 billion.
The results of the latest International and National Visitor Survey showed growth in domestic and international expenditure and visits.
The biggest boost came from interstate guests, with 2.5 million visitors who spent a record USD2.2 billion in South Australia.
This growth complemented an increase in international expenditure, which now sits at AUD1.15 billion, a 4% increase on 12 months ago.
China led international growth with expenditure up 15% to AUD426 million. The UK, US and New Zealand also recorded strong growth.
South Australian Tourism Commission chief executive, Rodney Harrex, said it was an exciting to start the year with these impressive figures.
“The State Tourism Plan 2020 has helped build a strong and competitive tourism industry, as we work towards an AUD8 billion visitor economy – it is vital that this momentum continues,” Harrex said.
“South Australia is seeing a huge increase in its level of aviation activity and with World Routes coming to Adelaide this year, we expect demand will only continue to increase.” he said.
Acting Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, David Pisoni, said the results were pleasing and a testament to the hard work and passion of thousands of local tourism operators.
“When we attract more tourists to experience the wonders of South Australia and our world-class events we grow our economy and help create more local jobs,’’ Minister Pisoni said.
“We look forward to building on this momentum by ensuring that South Australia continues to deliver world-class events and experiences for our valued visitors through new government initiatives.” he said.
Adelaide, capital of South Australia, will host the 25th World Route Development Forum 21 to 24 September this year at the Adelaide Showground with 3,000 delegates expected to attend.
Attracting senior decision makers from the world’s leading aviation organisations, World Routes provides a platform for route development professionals to discuss, develop and plan airline network strategy on a global scale.
(Source: World Routes)
