Australia is more than kangaroos, koalas, and the Great Barrier Reef — it’s one of the most unique and bucket-list destinations in the world.
Ranking among the top 20 most visited countries, Australia welcomed 8.4 million international visitors in the 2024-25 financial year, up 5.5% compared with the previous year.
Tourism is now close to its pre-pandemic peak of 8.7 million visitors in 2019, with strong growth in both arrivals and spending.
In the past year we have welcomed more than eight million visitors for the first time in five years… Total visitor expenditure also grew to a record $48.8 billion. As an island nation aviation capacity is critical… inbound seat capacity is now back, reaching record levels last year.
How Many Tourists Visit Australia Each Day?
- In 2024-25, international arrivals totaled 8,402,400, which averages ~23,000 per day.
- In July 2025 alone, there were 743,210 short-term visitor arrivals, up 12.8% compared to July 2024.
- The median length of stay for short-term visitors was 12 days.
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.
How Many Tourists Visit Australia Each Year?
- 2019 (pre-pandemic): 8.7M international arrivals.
- 2020–2021: Borders closed, arrivals dropped below 1M.
- 2022: ~3.6M international arrivals.
- 2023: ~6.2M international arrivals.
- 2024-25: 8.4M international arrivals, close to full recovery.
How Much Do Visitors Spend in Australia?
- In the year ending March 2025, international visitors spent AUD $52.6B.
- They stayed for a total of 296.4 million nights.
- Domestic tourism expenditure (2023-24): AUD $160.15B.
- Combined internal tourism consumption: AUD $198.5B.
- Tourism supports over 600,000 jobs and contributes ~3% of GDP.
Which Countries Visit Australia the Most?
Australia’s visitor mix reflects both its regional ties and global appeal.
New Zealand remains the biggest source market thanks to proximity and family connections, while China has surged back strongly post-pandemic, growing 26% year-on-year.
The US and UK continue to provide large numbers of leisure and business travelers, while India is one of the fastest-growing long-haul markets.
| Country | Visitors | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🇳🇿 New Zealand | ~1.2M | Largest market due to proximity. |
| 🇨🇳 China | ~860K | +26% vs 2024, strong rebound. |
| 🇺🇸 United States | ~672K | Leisure + business. |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | ~613K | +6% year-on-year. |
| 🇮🇳 India | ~427K | Rapidly growing market. |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | ~360K | Tourism + students. |
| 🇸🇬 Singapore | ~340K | Major hub & stopover. |
| 🇰🇷 South Korea | ~280K | Young traveler segment. |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | ~250K | Long-stay adventure travel. |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | ~220K | Seasonal long-haul tourism. |
Aussies are ready to get out and explore beyond their own backyard again. However, this willingness to travel overseas is not completely indicative of the nation feeling less impacted by the economic environment…
What Are the Most Visited Cities in Australia?
Sydney and Melbourne dominate international arrivals, together attracting more than half of all visitors.
Sydney’s global icons like the Opera House and Bondi Beach make it the country’s top draw, while Melbourne’s mix of culture, sports, and food appeals to diverse travelers.
Beyond the big two, cities like Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide act as gateways to nearby natural attractions and wine regions.
| City | International Visitors (est. 2024-25) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | ~4.2M | Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach. |
| Melbourne | ~3.3M | Sports & culture capital. |
| Brisbane | ~1.8M | Gateway to Gold & Sunshine Coast. |
| Gold Coast | ~1.3M | Surfing, theme parks. |
| Perth | ~1.1M | Gateway to WA. |
| Adelaide | ~950K | Wine & festivals. |
| Cairns | ~900K | Great Barrier Reef. |
| Darwin | ~600K | Nature & Indigenous culture. |
| Hobart (Tasmania) | ~450K | MONA & wilderness. |
| Canberra | ~400K | Politics & museums. |
What Are the Most Visited Attractions in Australia?
Australia’s most visited attractions highlight its unique mix of natural wonders and urban icons.
The Sydney Opera House is the undisputed leader, drawing over 8 million visitors each year, while the Great Barrier Reef continues to attract millions of eco-tourists.
Inland, Uluru provides a cultural and spiritual experience, and coastal gems like the Great Ocean Road remain must-see stops for international travelers.
| Attraction | Annual Visitors | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney Opera House | ~8.2M | Australia’s #1 landmark. |
| Great Barrier Reef | ~2.1M | UNESCO wonder. |
| Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park | ~400K | Spiritual heart of Australia. |
| Bondi Beach (Sydney) | ~2.7M | Surf culture icon. |
| Great Ocean Road (Victoria) | ~2.5M | Coastal drive. |
| Blue Mountains (NSW) | ~1.5M | Hiking & nature. |
| Daintree Rainforest (QLD) | ~900K | Oldest rainforest. |
| Phillip Island Penguin Parade | ~700K | Wildlife tourism. |
| Taronga Zoo (Sydney) | ~1.4M | Family favourite. |
| Kakadu National Park (NT) | ~300K | Indigenous heritage. |
💡 Expert Insight — Susan Coghill, CMO, Tourism Australia
“We believe in the idea of compound creativity and the power of consistency… we found a way to move this story along while maintaining the elements that work really hard for us.”
We believe in the idea of compound creativity and the power of consistency… we found a way to move this story along while maintaining the elements that work really hard for us.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Australia? (Seasonality)
- Summer (Dec–Feb): High season — beaches, Sydney NYE, cricket.
- Autumn (Mar–May): Moderate — wine regions, festivals.
- Winter (Jun–Aug): High — Great Barrier Reef, northern regions, ski resorts.
- Spring (Sep–Nov): Very High — wildflowers, Melbourne Cup, outdoor festivals.
What Are the Biggest Events Attracting Tourists to Australia?
Australia’s events calendar is one of the most diverse in the world, spanning global sports, arts festivals, and iconic celebrations.
Vivid Sydney has become the biggest event in terms of attendance, with over 3 million visitors, while the Australian Open and Formula 1 Grand Prix keep Melbourne at the center of international sport.
Cultural showcases like the Adelaide Fringe and Sydney Mardi Gras highlight Australia’s creativity and inclusiveness.
| Event | Location | Annual Visitors | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney New Year’s Eve Fireworks | Sydney | ~1M | Global broadcast. |
| Melbourne Cup | Melbourne | ~100K (race day) | “Race that stops a nation.” |
| Vivid Sydney (light & art) | Sydney | ~3M | May–June. |
| Australian Open (Tennis) | Melbourne | ~900K | January. |
| Formula 1 Australian GP | Melbourne | ~450K | April. |
| Sydney Mardi Gras | Sydney | ~500K | Feb–Mar. |
| Adelaide Fringe Festival | Adelaide | ~800K | Feb–Mar. |
| Byron Bay Bluesfest | Byron Bay | ~100K | April. |
| AFL Grand Final | Melbourne | ~100K | September. |
| Sculptures by the Sea | Sydney | ~500K | Oct–Nov. |
We had a 10-year boost after Sydney [Olympics]… Brisbane is growing fast, and this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
How Does Tourism Impact Australia’s Economy?
- AUD $198.5B total tourism consumption in 2023-24.
- AUD $52.6B from international visitors in YE March 2025.
- Tourism employs ~600,000 people.
- Tourism contributes ~3% of GDP.
FAQ – Australia Tourism Insights
How many tourists visit Australia each year?
8.4M international arrivals in 2024-25, close to record highs.
Which country sends the most visitors?
New Zealand, with ~1.2M visitors in YE March 2025.
What is the median stay?
12 days in 2024-25.
How much do tourists spend?
International visitors spent AUD $52.6B in YE March 2025.
What is the most visited attraction?
The Sydney Opera House, with over 8M visitors per year.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring (Sep–Nov) and summer (Dec–Feb) for events and beaches.
Sources
- Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) — Overseas Arrivals and Departures, Australia, 2024–25 Financial Year
- Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) — Tourism Satellite Account, 2023–24
- Tourism Research Australia (TRA) — International Tourism Results – Year Ending March 2025
- Tourism Australia — Destination Australia 2025 (quote by Phillipa Harrison)
- World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) — Australia’s Travel & Tourism sector on track for record $315bn in 2025 (quote by Julia Simpson)
- Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) Australia — Media Release: Aussies Ready to Travel Again (quote by Margy Osmond)
- LBB Online — Tourism Australia ‘Come and Say G’day’ Campaign (quote by Susan Coghill)
- Tourism Australia – ATE25 Coverage — Australian Tourism Exchange 2025 Wrap-up (quote by Phillipa Harrison)
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