More international visitors are sightseeing on Phillip Island and spending more during their trip.
Federal Member for Flinders, The Hon. Greg Hunt MP said this month’s International Visitor Survey data revealed 53,000 international visitors flocked to experience tourism attractions on the island, spending $16 million in the year to December 2017.
“More tourists are immersing themselves in the fantastic local attractions and cultural offering of Phillip Island and are spending more – boosting the local economy and helping to create tourism jobs,” Minister Hunt said.
“Phillip Island’s tourism attractions like the Phillip Island Penguin Parade continue to appeal to overseas travellers, which is positive news for local tourism operators.”
Tourism Research Australia’s survey shows international visitors rose by 54 per cent and spending increased by 23 per cent from the previous three years.
“Tourism is a major pillar of the Australian economy, directly employing almost 600,000 people, that’s why Tourism Australia has seen record funding under a Coalition Government,” Mr Hunt said.
“The IVS also revealed Chinese tourists remain Australia’s biggest spenders, pumping a record $10.4 billion – a 14 per cent increase from last year – into the economy, with spending from US visitors also growing strongly, up three per cent to $3.8 billion.”
“The Turnbull Coalition Government is working to supercharge the US visitor market through Tourism Australia’s record investment in the US with the new Dundee campaign,” said Mr Hunt.
The International Visitor Survey is available on the Tourism Research Australia website: www.tra.gov.au
(ENDS)