Visitor Economy Figures: Adelaide Sees Surge in Interstate Visitor Spending

Stories Business
Last updated 19 Nov, 2024

The city is cashing in on strong interstate visitor spend, with new Adelaide Economic Development Agency (AEDA) data showing expenditure increased almost 10 per cent in Q3 2024 compared to the same period last year.

Latest AEDA visitor economy figures showed interstate expenditure had grown from $106.5 million in Q3 2023 to $133.5 million — a 7 per cent increase that also outpaced inflation.

Victorian and New South Wales visitors were the highest spending markets $37.1 million and $36 million respectively

AEDA Tourism Industry Development Advisor Gemma Nelson said tourism operators played a crucial role in achieving strong results by encouraging visitors to explore Adelaide

“This positive trend reflects growing confidence in our vibrant economy and the appeal of Adelaide as a travel destination,” Ms Nelson said.

"With the festive season approaching, these results are encouraging, for Adelaide’s economy as we head into the busy Christmas and events period over the summer."

Other positive results from the Visitor Economy Report included:

  • Around 2.1 million flight passengers touched down in Adelaide, growing 2 per cent compared to Q3 2023
  • About 475,000 hotel rooms were booked, up 6 per cent on Q3 2023.
  • Business delegates were up 19 per cent on Q2 2023 at 19,800.
  • Visitors spent on average around 3.8 days in Adelaide.

Cruise ship visitors are also expected to boost expenditure in the State, with Princess Cruises alone projected to bring in $20 million to the state’s economy across 12 port calls.

Visitor information volunteers will be greeting cruise ship passengers in the city to assist with their planning and connect them with local experiences.

“Tourism operators can contact AEDA, or visit its website, to learn how to take advantage of the total number of interstate travelers in the city,” Ms Nelson said.

“This could be as simple as strengthening your ATDW listing or finding out how you can participate in the Adelaide Celebrates Glass City Trail to attract more visitors to your business.

Click here to view more Visitor Economy Data to help inform your business decisions.