Tourism Ministers from across Australia met in Adelaide on 21 March 2025 to discuss shared priorities for the visitor economy and the ongoing recovery and growth of the tourism sector.

NSW was represented by Destination NSW Acting CEO Karen Jones, attending on behalf of the Hon Stephen Kamper MP, Minister for Jobs and Tourism.

The meeting reinforced the NSW Government’s strategic direction and collaborative efforts across jurisdictions to strengthen the visitor economy.

Strong visitor economy growth

  • Visitor expenditure across Australia reached $211 billion in the year to September 2024, including $80 billion in regional Australia—well ahead of the 2024 THRIVE 2030 targets.
  • Domestic overnight spend reached $110.3 billion, with NSW continuing to lead national tourism spend, visitation and visitor nights.

Progress on national tourism strategy

Ministers welcomed a progress update on the THRIVE 2030 strategy, with NSW contributing to major national initiatives, including:

  • The National Sustainability Framework & Toolkit supporting NSW’s sustainable tourism ambitions.
  • The WELCOME Framework, aligning with NSW efforts to enhance accessibility across tourism experiences.
  • The LIVE Framework, strengthening data-driven measurement of social, cultural, and environmental outcomes.
  • The Choose Tourism workforce program, complementing NSW’s investment in skills and training for regional tourism.

Aboriginal tourism a priority

The newly formed First Nations Visitor Economy Partnership was endorsed by all jurisdictions, building on NSW’s leadership in Aboriginal tourism and the milestone of 3 million trips including a First Nations experience nationally in 2023–24.

Aviation and future growth

Ministers discussed the role of aviation in tourism recovery, including the Australian Government’s support for Regional Express (Rex) Airlines. NSW welcomed this, alongside its own investment in the $16 million Western Sydney International Take-Off Fund to boost inbound aviation ahead of the airport’s opening in 2026.

NSW continues to play a leading role in shaping Australia’s visitor economy through strategic partnerships, national collaboration and a focus on sustainable, experience-led growth.