Australia continues to experience a steady rebound in international visitors, with the latest ABS data for July 2024 showing some fascinating shifts in where travellers are coming from. One standout figure is the 26,860 visitors from India, which signals a growth in travel from India. This represents a steady climb compared to the 24,120 visitors from July 2023 and shows how India’s connection to Australia remains strong. But how does this compare to other countries?
The biggest player in short-term arrivals remains New Zealand, with 121,320 visits in July 2024. While this number is up from last year, it hasn’t yet hit pre-pandemic levels when New Zealand saw 133,630 visitors in July 2019. Still, the Kiwis lead the pack when it comes to frequent trips across the Tasman, with a mix of leisure and business travellers keeping this route active.
China’s numbers also show a rebound, with 103,840 short-term visitors arriving in July 2024—a substantial increase compared to the meagre 12,390 visitors in July 2022. It’s a reminder of China’s enduring role in Australia’s tourism economy. Though their numbers are still down from 150,390 in 2019, the recovery is well underway. The USA, too, saw a more modest figure of 42,030 visitors, down from 55,980 the previous year, showing a somewhat slower recovery for American tourists.
India’s 26,860 visitors might seem smaller by comparison, but it’s worth noting the consistent year-on-year growth. The jump from 22,380 visitors in 2022 to nearly 27,000 in 2024 highlights a growing affinity for Australia as a destination for Indian travellers, whether for tourism, family visits, or business ventures.
Where are these travellers heading? The majority are making their way to New South Wales, which recorded 234,450 arrivals in July 2024. Victoria and Queensland followed closely, with 161,390 and 171,360 visitors, respectively. These numbers highlight Australia’s east coast as a primary destination for international tourists, likely drawn by the bustling cities of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, as well as the coastal beauty the regions offer.
Western Australia also recorded a decent share, with 56,420 visitors, while South Australia welcomed 15,820. Interestingly, smaller regions like Tasmania (3,900), the Northern Territory (6,740), and the ACT (8,810) saw fewer visitors, suggesting that while these regions are stunning, they remain niche destinations for international travellers.
Australia’s travel rebound reflects deeper trends in how nations are reconnecting in a post-pandemic world. Countries like India and China are gradually reclaiming their role as major players in Australia’s tourism economy, while traditional powerhouses like New Zealand continue to top the charts.
Looking at these numbers, it’s clear that while the travel recovery is underway, the landscape has shifted. Australia remains a key destination for many, but the patterns of movement are evolving. Will India’s steady rise continue, and could we see a shift in where visitors prefer to go? The coming months may reveal even more changes as the world adjusts to its new rhythm.
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#India’s visitor nos to #Australia🇦🇺 rose to 26,860 in July 2024, showcasing steady growth. #NewZealand🇳🇿 leads arrivals, while #China🇨🇳 rebounds strongly. Explore the latest trends in Australia’s #tourism recovery. 🌏✈️📊🇮🇳📈 #TheIndianSun @ABSStatshttps://t.co/a0c3eeJpak
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) September 13, 2024
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