Tourism continues to be a major driver of the Southern NSW economy, contributing $8.1 million in visitor spending every day, a 39% increase since 2019. In 2024, the region welcomed 6.3 million visitors, generating significant value across local communities and industries.
Tourism directly delivered 5.1% of regional Gross Value Add (GVA), supported 3,575 businesses, and filled over 12,400 direct jobs, representing 8.3% of total employment. The majority of visitors were domestic overnight travellers (60%), with strong growth in expenditure despite visitation remaining slightly below pre-COVID levels.
With an expanding tourism investment pipeline, increased regional flights, and continued growth in accommodation performance, Southern NSW’s visitor economy remains on a strong trajectory for long-term recovery and sustainable growth.
Read the Value of Tourism to Southern NSW 2024 report
