Visitor Distribution Across Victoria: Domestic vs. International Trends
Victoria’s visitor economy continues to evolve, shaped by shifting travel patterns and economic influences. Understanding the distribution of visitors—both international and domestic—provides valuable insights for tourism operators, policymakers, and businesses looking to engage with key markets.
Domestic vs. International Visitors: The Numbers
Recent data from Tourism Research Australia highlights the dominance of domestic tourism in
Victoria’s visitor economy. In the year ending December 2024, Victoria welcomed:
29.1 million domestic overnight visitors, marking a 2% year-on-year increase.
80.8 million domestic nights, though slightly down by 3%.
$22.8 billion in domestic overnight spend, maintaining stability compared to the previous year.
Meanwhile, international tourism is steadily recovering post-pandemic. In the year ending December 2024, international visitor trends showed:
International overnight visitors reached 53% of pre-pandemic levels.
International overnight spend recovered to 56% of pre-pandemic levels, reflecting a gradual return of global travelers.
Regional Insights: Where Are Visitors Going?
Victoria’s tourism regions each play a unique role in attracting visitors. Melbourne remains the primary gateway for international tourists, while regional areas see strong domestic travel activity. Key trends include:
Domestic intrastate overnight visitors are nearly back to pre-pandemic levels, down just 3%.
Interstate overnight visitors are approaching pre-pandemic figures, with only a 7% gap.
International visitors are returning, but their numbers remain below pre-pandemic highs.
What This Means for Victoria’s Visitor Economy
The data underscores the importance of domestic tourism as the backbone of Victoria’s visitor economy, while international travel continues its recovery. Tourism operators should focus on:
Enhancing domestic experiences to maintain strong engagement with local travelers.
Targeting international markets strategically, ensuring Victoria remains a top destination as global travel rebounds.
Leveraging regional strengths, promoting unique attractions beyond Melbourne to encourage broader visitor distribution.
Victoria’s tourism sector is resilient, and with strategic planning, the state can continue to thrive as a premier destination for both domestic and international travelers.
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