Tourists flock to Corangamite region

INTERNATIONAL tourists continue to flock to Corangamite’s famous tourist destinations, and are spending more while they’re in town.

Corangamite federal member Sarah Henderson said figures from the recent International Visitor Survey showed during the past 12 months, 2.28 million international travellers experienced tourism sites and activities on the Great Ocean Road, as well as another 56,000 in Geelong and the Bellarine and 44,000 in the Central Highlands.

Average spends were up across these three tourism regions.

“More tourists are visiting our region and spending more, which contributes to our job creation and boosts the local economy,” Ms Henderson said.

“I’m pleased to see our tourism attractions continue to be popular with overseas travellers; it shows marketing of Corangamite locations have cut-through with international visitors, which is great for local tourism operators.”

Tourism Research Australia’s survey shows international visitors to the Great Ocean Road grew by 47 per cent and spending increased by 58 per cent from the previous three years.

“Tourism is one of Australia’s main industries and is responsible for a large portion of the country’s economic growth, that’s why the Turnbull Coalition government continues to invest in growing this key sector,” Ms Henderson said.

“The IVS also revealed spending by Chinese tourists has reached a new record in Australia – exceeding $10 billion for the first time.

“The record spending occurred during the China-Australia Year of Tourism, initiated by the Turnbull Coalition government as we work to maximise the potential of China – Australia’s fastest growing and most valuable inbound tourism market – to create new Australian jobs.”

The International Visitor Survey is available on the Tourism Research Australia website at tra.gov.au.