30 December 2009
BRIGHTER OUTLOOK FOR TOURISM IN 2010
The brighter outlook for Australian tourism in 2010 is a well-deserved reward for the perseverance
and commitment of all those involved in the tourism industry through what has been one of the
industry’s most challenging years, the Chairman of Tourism Australia, Rick Allert AO, said today.
Mr Allert welcomed the release of the latest tourism forecasts by the Tourism Forecasting Committee
(TFC) which expects growth of 4.3 per cent for international visitors, and growth in domestic
overnight trips of 4 per cent during 2010.
The TFC has also adjusted its original forecast of a 4.1 percent decline in international visitors during
2009 to a much smaller decline of 0.5 percent.
“Throughout the year, Australia has performed better than forecasted, and significantly better than
many of our major international competitors,” Mr Allert said.
Mr Allert said Tourism Australia’s domestic and global marketing activities had continued to support
the Australian tourism industry through a very challenging year.
“With our industry partners, Tourism Australia has kept Australia at the front of mind for international
visitors and we have all worked together to make the most of opportunities to attract visitors from key
overseas markets.”
Mr Allert said there was no room for complacency despite the encouraging forecasts for 2010.
“The tourism industry is fully exposed to everything from exchange rates, fuel prices, and influenza
outbreaks, as well as the intensive competition for business from other destinations.
“Tourism Australia will be working diligently with our industry partners throughout 2010 to ensure
these promising forecasts for growth are realised,” Mr Allert said.
More information: Matt Francis, Tourism Australia 0409 365 292
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