QUEENSLAND’S tourism industry has posted record results, with new data showing the state is outperforming the national average in attracting international visitors and spending.
Research Australia figures reveal international visitor expenditure in Queensland surged 35.2 per cent over the past year, well above the national increase of 20.5 per cent. The state welcomed 2.4 million international visitors, up 12.7 per cent, including 1.4 million holidaymakers who spent a record $3.8 billion.
International visitors contributed a record $8.2 billion to Queensland’s economy, with education-related travel reaching $2.2 billion, up 72.6 per cent. China remained the state’s biggest international market by expenditure at $1.6 billion, followed by New Zealand and the United Kingdom.
Domestic tourism also remained a major driver, contributing $37.3 billion in visitor expenditure. Queensland attracted 26.1 million domestic overnight visitors, while daytrip spending climbed to a record $10 billion.
Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the results reflected the success of the State Government’s Destination 2045 strategy.