Perth Airport.
International tourism to Western Australia is nearing pre-pandemic levels, with new data indicating a significant rebound in visitor numbers. According to figures released by Tourism Research Australia, the state welcomed approximately 991,000 international tourists in the 12 months leading up to September 2023. This marks a 17 percent increase compared to the previous year and brings visitor numbers within just 5,000 tourists of the figures recorded in 2019.
The United Kingdom remains the leading market for international visitors to Western Australia, contributing around 140,000 individuals. Following the UK are Singapore, New Zealand, China, and Malaysia, which round out the top five markets. Notably, visitors from China contributed significantly to the local economy, spending a total of $488 million while in the state. Both British and Singaporean travelers also made substantial contributions, each spending over $300 million.
Tourism Minister Reece Whitby expressed optimism regarding these developments. He stated, “I am incredibly proud to see Western Australia leading the nation in terms of international tourism recovery, with these new statistics showing international visitors are increasingly choosing WA as their holiday destination.” His comments underscore the positive sentiment surrounding the resurgence in tourism.
Interstate Travel Also on the Rise
In addition to international visitors, interstate travel to Western Australia has also seen a notable increase, rising by 12 percent over the same period. More than 1.2 million visitors traveled to WA from other regions within Australia. This growth positions Western Australia as the country’s second most popular destination for tourists, further solidifying its appeal.
Minister Whitby remains confident that these trends will continue. “I’m confident Western Australia will continue to be the destination of choice for travelers as we’re home to such a diverse range of unforgettable locations, events, and businesses that guarantee more holidaymakers will choose our State in 2026,” he added.
The revival of tourism in Western Australia not only reflects a recovery from the impacts of the pandemic but also highlights the region’s growing attractiveness as a preferred destination for both international and domestic travelers. The data suggests that as travel continues to normalize, Western Australia is well-positioned to welcome an increasing number of visitors in the coming years.
