Record tourist numbers in SA provide boost to local economy

South Australia is welcoming a record number of visitors, with the state’s visitor economy soaring to an all-time-high of $6.9 billion.

The Marshall Liberal Government today welcomed the latest International and National Visitor Survey results which showed growth in domestic and international expenditure and visitation.

The biggest boost comes from interstate guests, with 2.5 million visitors spending a record $2.2 billion in South Australia. This growth complements an increase in international expenditure, now at $1.15 billion, which is a 4 percent increase compared to 12 months ago.

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.

“It’s particularly pleasing to see that regional South Australia is enjoying the boom, receiving 62 percent of all domestic visits,” he said.

“We look forward to building on this momentum by ensuring that South Australia continues to deliver world-class events and experiences to our valued visitors particularly in the regions, through new and exciting government initiatives.”

China led international growth – with expenditure up 15 percent to $426 million. The United Kingdom, United States and New Zealand also recorded strong growth.

South Australian Tourism Commission, Chief Executive, Rodney Harrex, said it’s exciting to start the new year with these impressive figures.

“The State Tourism Plan 2020 has helped build a strong and competitive tourism industry, as we work towards an $8 billion visitor economy – it is vital that this momentum continues,” Mr Harrex said.

“The word is continuing to spread about how incredible our tourism experiences are – visitors are filling our hotel rooms, boosting hospitality, retail and service sectors and helping us muscle into the ranks as a must-see destination,” he 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.”

Visit the Tourism Research Australia website to view the latest International and National Visitor Survey’s www.tra.gov.au