Australia’s Travel & Tourism industry is poised for another record year in 2025, expected to contribute $314.4 billion to the national economy, according to recent data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).
The latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) from the global tourism organisation indicates the sector is projected to grow nearly 30% beyond pre-pandemic levels, accounting for 11.4% of the country’s GDP.
This robust growth highlights the ongoing recovery and resilience of Australia’s tourism economy, driven by increased international demand and a vibrant domestic travel market.
In 2025, the Travel & Tourism sector is expected to support 1.7 million jobs, accounting for more than 11.5% of national employment, an increase of 100,000 jobs compared to last year.
Visitor spending is rising across the board, with international visitor expenditures expected to hit $39 billion, almost 22% higher than in 2024, setting a new record for Australia.
Domestic visitor spending is also projected to increase, reaching nearly $173 billion.
These numbers reinforce Australia’s position as a premier global destination, celebrated for its diverse natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and exceptional tourism infrastructure, according to the WTTC.
“Australia is proving once again that it is a powerhouse for Travel & Tourism. This record contribution to the economy and workforce reflects years of collaboration between industry and government. I was delighted to see this momentum firsthand in Perth last year when Tourism Western Australia hosted WTTC’s Global Summit – a clear signal of the country's leadership in the global tourism sector,” said Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO.
“From the cities to the outback, and coast to coast, Australia offers unforgettable experiences. With continued investment in connectivity, sustainability, and experience design, the outlook for the next decade is incredibly promising,” she added.
Furthermore, in 2024, Australia’s Travel & Tourism sector contributed $297 billion to the national economy and supported 1.6 million jobs. International visitor spending amounted to $32.1 billion, while domestic visitor spending reached $123.7 billion, accounting for the majority of the sector’s recovery.
The WTTC projects that by 2035, the Travel & Tourism sector will contribute over $406 billion to Australia’s economy, representing nearly 12% of GDP, and support more than 2.1 million jobs.
In addition, visitor spending is also anticipated to rise steadily, with international visitor spending expected to exceed $52 billion and domestic visitor spending projected to approach $221 billion.