International tourism in Western Australia (WA) is experiencing a significant rebound, with visitor numbers approaching pre-pandemic levels. According to recent data from Tourism Research Australia, the state welcomed 991,000 international tourists in the 12 months leading up to September 2023. This figure represents a 17 percent increase compared to the previous year and is only 5,000 tourists short of those recorded in 2019, highlighting a strong recovery in the tourism sector.
The United Kingdom remains the leading source of international visitors, contributing 140,000 arrivals. Following the UK, the top markets include Singapore, New Zealand, China, and Malaysia. Notably, tourists from China were the highest spenders, injecting $488 million into the WA economy. Visitors from the UK and Singapore also contributed significantly, each spending over $300 million during their stays.
Reece Whitby, WA’s Tourism Minister, expressed pride in the recovery figures, stating, “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.” This sentiment reflects a growing optimism within the tourism industry, as the state becomes a preferred choice for travelers.
The resurgence is not limited to international tourists. Interstate visitation has also seen a rise of 12 percent, making WA the second most popular tourism destination in Australia. Over 1.2 million visitors traveled from other parts of the country in the same 12-month period, demonstrating a robust internal tourism market.
Minister Whitby remains confident about the future growth of tourism in WA, suggesting that the state’s diverse range of attractions will continue to draw holidaymakers. “I’m confident Western Australia will continue to be the destination of choice for travellers 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 remarked.
As WA’s tourism sector shows signs of vibrant recovery, these developments could signal a broader resurgence across Australia’s tourism landscape, fostering economic growth and enhancing regional connectivity. The figures underscore the importance of international tourism as a vital component of WA’s economy, setting a hopeful tone as the industry looks towards the future.
