Travellers from India continue to be enticed by the diverse attractions and tourism experiences on offer in Australia. In 2015, the destination achieved a milestone when it welcomed over 200,000 Indian travellers during the year. Adding another feather to its cap, Australia has now notched an impressive 253,100 arrivals from India as of year ended (YE) October 2016. This number reflected a growth of 11.3 per cent vis-a-vis the same period last year, making India the 9th largest inbound market for arrivals to Australia. The month of October 2016 alone saw 20,400 Indian arrivals to the destination, a growth of 24 per cent over the same period in 2015. Most importantly, the holiday purpose of visit has driven the overall market growth with an impressive 20 per cent and 19 per cent increase in arrivals and spends respectively.
Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager, India & Gulf, Tourism Australia said, “We are elated that arrivals from India into Australia have witnessed a consistent growth trajectory over the years. The recent arrival statistics are a testimony to the fact that Australia’s diverse tourism offerings have been recognised and appreciated by the Indian traveller, and the country is gaining momentum as the preferred holiday destination for the market. Leveraging the continually increasing interest in Australia, we will continue to drive innovative and focused promotional activities.”
Marketing activities, in collaboration with key distribution and airline partners, an increased thrust on digital initiatives, integration on leading television shows, and improved air connectivity between the two countries, have been key factors in boosting travel to Australia. To support the travel trade distribution network, Tourism Australia runs the ‘Aussie Specialist Programme’, an online training initiative aimed at building confidence and knowledge levels of travel representatives on the destination.
The Tourism Forecasting Committee (TFC) has predicted 265,000 visitors from India for the Jul 2016 – Jun 17 period, a 9.6 per cent increase over 2015-16. Arrivals from India are expected to perform well with an average annual financial year growth rate of 6.4 per cent through to the financial year 2021-22.