The latest visitor numbers highlight the Northern Territory’s COVID-19 recovery is on track with tourists staying longer and spending more, boosting our economy and local employment opportunities.
There were 1.28 million domestic tourists to the Territory in the year ending June 2022, with a total expenditure of $2.07 billion dollars.
They’re staying an average of 6.4 nights and spending $1,619 per person, more than pre COVID spending levels.
It’s a remarkable recovery given Australia was still having rolling lockdowns during the second half of 2021 while dealing with the omicron wave.
The Northern Territory Government is committed to supporting our tourism operators and has today announced the recipients of $500,000 worth of funding for sustainability and accessibility improvements.
The Accessibility grants help NT tourism operators to continue to improve visitor accessibility and experiences, adding to the Territory’s overall reputation as a compelling destination for inclusive travel.
A total of 8 accessibility improvement projects received funding including Alice Springs Reptile Centre, Red Centre Adventures and Crab Claw Island Resort.
Sustainability grants help tourism operators reduce their ecological and carbon footprint, benefit local community well-being and positively impact the Territory’s natural and cultural environment, helping to build the Northern Territory’s reputation as a compelling destination for sustainable travel.
A total of 11 sustainability projects received a green tick including Magnum Serviced Apartments and Earth Sanctuary in Central Australia.
Quotes from Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Nicole Manison:
“The Northern Territory is bouncing back from COVID, with tourists staying longer and spending more than they were pre pandemic – it means more jobs for Territorians and a stronger tourism industry.
Our interstate neighbours suffered rolling lockdowns which is why the NT has had such strong appeal and travel, a remarkable recovery for our crucial tourism sector which contributes to our $40 billion economy.
Many visitors rely on recommendations when booking tours or accommodation, so these grant programs help our NT tourism operators to improve the visitor experience, adding to the Territory’s overall reputation as an inclusive and sustainable destination.”
Quotes from Crocosaurus Cove General Manage Penny Eckel:
“Crocosaurus Cove has experienced a very busy dry season with consistently strong visitor numbers since April.
The majority of our visitors have been domestic families and travellers from all sides of Australia, not just one region.
It has been wonderful to welcome so many visitors to the Top End and showcase to them our Saltwater Crocodiles and educational displays throughout the park.”
Northern Territory Government
