![tourism for australia PlanetWare.com](https://www.planetware.com/i/planetware_final3---white-on-red-450.png)
![](http://britannia.fun/777/templates/cheerup/res/banner1.gif)
Plan Your Trip to Australia: 7 Top Itineraries
Written by Karen Hastings Updated Jul 26, 2022
Australia is a land of staggering contrasts spread out over a landmass almost as big as the continental US, so planning the perfect itinerary entails pinpointing your preferences. Coral reefs, islands, rainforests, and ravishing beaches rim the coast, and rugged canyons and red deserts of haunting beauty stretch across the interior.
![tourism for australia Kangaroo on the beach](https://www.planetware.com/wpimages/2022/06/australia-plan-your-trip-top-itineraries-intro-paragraph-kangaroo-beach.jpg)
To get the most out of your visit to Australia, it's best to fly between the top places to visit and concentrate on a particular area of the country. If it's your first visit to the Land Down Under, you might want to start with a version of the top Australia itinerary on our trip planner: Sydney, Rainforest, & Reef, highlighting the east coast's most popular tourist attractions. Then, depending on your interests and time constraints, you can use the other Australia itineraries, organized by region, as building blocks to customize your adventures.
Travel to Australia can require some long flights — especially if you're visiting from the Northern Hemisphere. A week to 10 days is the minimum recommended time to visit Australia, as distances are vast, and jet lag can take a couple of days to pass. Note that if you're planning to see the highlights of both the east coast and the west coast, it takes about five hours to fly from Sydney to Perth.
Wherever and whenever you decide to go, Australia is one of the world's most rewarding places to visit, with spectacular scenery, incredible wildlife, and some of the friendliest people on the planet.
Plan your trip with these top Australia itineraries.
1. Sydney, Rainforest & Reef
2. the northern territory: the top end & the red centre, 3. queensland: the sunshine coast, fraser island, & the whitsunday islands, 4. melbourne and the great ocean road, 5. western australia: perth, coral reefs, broome, and the kimberley, 6. south australia: adelaide, the barossa & clare valleys, and kangaroo island, 7. tasmania: the apple isle loop, map of australia: top itineraries, when is the best time to visit australia.
![tourism for australia Sydney Harbour](https://www.planetware.com/photos-large/AUS/australia-itineraries-sydney.jpg)
East Coast Itinerary Highlights : Sydney, Blue Mountains, Cairns/Port Douglas, Daintree Rainforest, Kuranda, the Great Barrier Reef
Visiting Australia for the first time? This itinerary is ideal if you only have about a week to 10 days to see the highlights. It offers a quintessential slice of the stunning east coast.
Start in Sydney and visit all the iconic attractions such as the Sydney Opera House , the Sydney Harbour Bridge , Bondi Beach , and the Rocks . After exploring the top attractions in the city , choose from an alluring line-up of day trips from Sydney . The Blue Mountains is one of the most popular.
From Sydney, fly up to Cairns , the most popular gateway to Far North Queensland's top tropical attractions, including the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest ; the quaint rainforest village of Kuranda ; and Cape Tribulation , where two of the world's richest ecosystems (rainforest and reef) merge in a sublime mingling of blues and greens.
Alternatively, you can base yourself in the sleepy tropical town of Port Douglas (about 60 minutes' drive north of Cairns). It lies a little closer to the reef, and charms visitors with its relaxed tropical feel and friendly locals. If you have more time, consider adding on some of the itineraries below.
Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Sydney, Australia
![tourism for australia Uluru](https://www.planetware.com/photos-large/AUS/australia-itineraries-uluru.jpg)
Northern Territory Itinerary Highlights : Darwin, Kakadu National Park, Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge), Alice Springs, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon)
The Northern Territory offers a taste of the Australian Outback. Stark red deserts, magnificent rock formations, and spectacular wilderness areas are some of the top things to see here.
Fly into Darwin, the main gateway for the tropical Top End, as it's called in Australia. Stay a night or two here soaking up all the fun attraction in Darwin , such as the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Market , the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory , and Stokes Hill Wharf. Thrill seekers can cage-dive with saltwater crocodiles at Crocosaurus Cove .
From Darwin, rent a car and drive about 255 kilometers to World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park , Australia's largest national park and one of the planet's most awe-inspiring wilderness areas. Take a Yellow Water or Guluyambi boat cruise to see crocodiles and water birds, or hike to ancient Aboriginal cave paintings.
From Kakadu, you can drive about 180 kilometers to Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park , with its series of 13 stunning steep-walled gorges. Explore the area on a scenic cruise, hike the trails, or paddle along the Katherine River in a kayak or canoe.
From the nearby town of Katherine, fly to Alice Springs in Australia's Red Centre. This is the gateway to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park , where Uluru (formerly Ayers Rock), one of Australia's top tourist attractions, rises 348 meters above the red-hued desert. About 40 kilometers from here, you can explore the dome-shaped rocks called Kata Tjuta (the Olgas).
If you have time, drive about 290 kilometers from Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon) for more breathtaking outback scenery and one of Australia's top hiking trails : Kings Canyon Rim Walk .
- Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Australia's Northern Territory
![tourism for australia Whitsunday Island beach](https://www.planetware.com/photos-large/AUS/australia-itineraries-whitsunday-beach.jpg)
Central & Southeast Queensland Coastal Itinerary Highlights : Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Fraser Island, Hervey Bay, Airlie Beach, the Whitsunday Islands
Sun, sea, sand, and sailing are the top attractions of this tour through Southeast and Central Queensland. Fly into the Sunshine Coast airport in Marcoola (one hour and 35 minutes flight time from Sydney), and explore some of the Sunshine Coast's surf-lapped beach towns and gorgeous beaches .
Soak up the scene with a stroll along the Mooloolaba Boardwalk, one of the top things to do in Mooloolaba ; surf some waves at Coolum Beach ; or bask on the beaches of Caloundra . Traveling on a budget? Take your pick from some of the best campgrounds on the Sunshine Coast .
If you're looking for a stylish base, stay in the beautiful beach resort of Noosa Heads . You can rest your head at some of the Sunshine Coast's top resorts. While you're here, hike through Noosa National Park ; spend an afternoon on magnificent Main Beach , swimming, surfing, or sunning; and stroll along Hastings Street , with its fantastic restaurants and boutique shops.
From Noosa, you can take day trips to explore all the top things to do on the Sunshine Coast . Save time, too, for a visit to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Here, you can visit cute country towns like Maleny and nearby Montville.
You can also join a tour to K'Gari (Fraser Island ), the world's largest sand island, or rent a 4WD and embark on a self-drive tour of this stunning UNESCO World Heritage site. Stay a night or two exploring the sparkling freshwater lakes, sweeping beaches, dunes, shipwrecks, and rainforests.
Hervey Bay , the gateway to Fraser Island, is also worth a visit. Whale watching is one of the most popular activities here, as well as fishing, sailing, and a range of other water sports.
From Marcoola, fly to Whitsunday Coast Airport in Proserpine (PPP). It's about 25 kilometers from Airlie Beach , the gateway to the idyllic Whitsunday Islands . From here, charter a boat and sail around these sun-soaked islands strung along the southern stretches of the Great Barrier Reef, or hop aboard a multi-island cruise.
Popular islands include family-friendly Daydream Island , Hamilton Island (the only Whitsunday island with its own airport), Long Island , and Hook Island . For a luxury island hideaway, hop aboard a helicopter to Hayman Island . With its silky soft silica sand, Whitehaven Beach is one of the top beaches in Australia and a must-see destination on your island-hopping adventure.
- Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Queensland
![tourism for australia Great Ocean Road](https://www.planetware.com/photos-large/AUS/australia-itineraries-great-ocean-road.jpg)
Victoria Itinerary Highlights : Melbourne, The Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island Penguin Parade, Mornington Peninsula, Grampians National Park, Wilsons Promontory, the Yarra Valley, and Dandenong Ranges
Australia's rugged south coast is home to one of the country's most staggeringly beautiful stretches of coastline. Fly into Melbourne, the vibrant capital of Victoria , and explore all the fantastic restaurants, shops, museums, galleries, and other attractions.
From here, you can choose from an adventure-filled list of Melbourne day trips . The most famous is a self-drive or guided tour along The Great Ocean Road , one of Australia's most breathtaking scenic drives. In Port Campbell National Park , gape at the Twelve Apostles , the wind-sculpted rock formations rising from the thrashing surf. Hike the Great Ocean Walk or, for a bird's-eye view, fly over the coast in a helicopter. In Torquay , surfers can ride the legendary swells of Bells Beach or visit the Australian National Surfing Museum .
In the hinterland, lush forests, zipline adventures, and treetop walking tours await. Other popular day trips from Melbourne include the Phillip Island Penguin Parade and the golden beaches of the Mornington Peninsula .
For fantastic hiking and bushland scenery, venture to Grampians National Park (260 kilometers from Melbourne), Wilsons Promontory (200 kilometers from Melbourne), or the Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges (25 kilometers from Melbourne).
![tourism for australia Roebuck Bay, Broome](https://www.planetware.com/photos-large/AUS/australia-itineraries-broome.jpg)
Western Australia Itinerary Highlights : Perth, the Margaret River, Ningaloo Reef, Broome, the Kimberley
About a five-hour flight from Australia's east coast, Western Australia is a wonderland of wilderness areas, wildlife, coral reefs, and beautiful beaches. This diverse and sparsely populated state is often overlooked by international travelers due to its distance from Sydney, but it delivers jaw-dropping beauty without the crowds.
Look at a map of Australia, and you'll see the ebullient state capital of Perth flung in the southwestern corner of this vast state. Start your tour here, and spend a day or two exploring all the attractions in the city .
Save time to venture out of the city, too. Day trips from Perth are particularly appealing. Take a cruise up the winding Swan River to the Swan Valley , or down river to Fremantle , Perth's vibrant port city. From Fremantle, you can also catch a ferry to ravishing Rottnest Island , rimmed by beautiful white-sand beaches and turquoise shallows.
Spend a few days at the Margaret River , about a three-hour drive from Perth. This prime grape-growing district offers great surf breaks, beautiful beaches, scenic coastal hikes, and a bounty of fresh produce and artisan foods.
After a taste of the city and surrounds, fly from Perth to Broome (flight time 2.5 hours) and ride a camel at sunset along the sweeping sands of Cable Beach . Want to get your heart pumping? Head to Horizontal Falls. One of Australia's top outdoor adventures , this exhilarating experience usually includes a seaplane flight over the falls and the rugged red cliffs of the northwest coast to Cape Leveque . Then you touch down for a succulent seafood lunch on the water, and a jet boat ride through the falls.
If you have more time, venture deep into the rugged Kimberley to see spectacular Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Mitchell Falls, or plan a rugged 4WD adventure along the Gibb River Road . Return to Perth.
Still more time? Fly from Perth to Exmouth (a two-and-a-half-hour flight to Learmonth airport) and explore nearby World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef , the world's largest fringing reef. Easily accessible from shore, this rich ecosystem is famous for the whale sharks that swim here from March through October, and you can swim with these gentle giants on an organized tour.
With more than 500 species of fish and 300 species of coral, the marine reserve is also a prime diving, snorkeling, and fishing destination . From here, drive 50 minutes to Cape Range National Park with its red-hued gorges and rugged canyons.
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Western Australia
![tourism for australia Adelaide](https://www.planetware.com/photos-large/AUS/australia-itineraries-adelaide.jpg)
South Australia Itinerary Highlights : Adelaide, the Barossa & Clare Valleys, Kangaroo Island, Flinders Ranges National Park
Sophisticated yet refreshingly slow paced, Adelaide is one of Australia's underrated cities and the gateway to the top places to visit in South Australia .
Spend a day or two in this gracious state capital exploring the many museums, galleries, and gardens. Then rent a car and drive about an hour from the city to the beautiful Barossa Valley (about 60 kilometers north of Adelaide) and the Clare Valley . These fertile lands are prime grape-growing regions and favorite foodie destinations, thanks to their bounty of fresh produce and fantastic restaurants.
From Adelaide, you can also drive about 45 minutes south to the pretty Fleurieu Peninsula. This scenic region offers golden beaches, great surf, farms, and more fabulous restaurants.
From the Fleurieu Peninsula, catch a ferry to Kangaroo Island, one of the state's top tourist destinations. You can also fly here in about 30 minutes from Adelaide. The island is famous for its pristine beaches and abundant wildlife. Fresh local produce is also a highlight — among the many gourmet delights are fresh seafood, free-range eggs, and Ligurian honey.
Close-up wildlife viewing is one of the top things to do on Kangaroo Island . In addition to the island's namesake marsupials, you can also see koalas, seal lions, New Zealand fur seals, echidnas, penguins, whales, and many species of birds. Save time to visit Flinders Chase National Park, with its strangely contorted rock formations and scenic hiking trails, as well as the fascinating limestone caves of Kelly Hill Conservation Park .
If you have more time, consider adding a safari to your itinerary and plan a road trip to Flinders Ranges National Park. About a five-hour drive from Adelaide, it's a favorite haunt of artists and photographers who appreciate the rich hues of shifting light on the arid landscapes.
![tourism for australia Mount Field National Park](https://www.planetware.com/photos-large/AUS/australia-itineraries-mt-field-national-park.jpg)
Highlights : Hobart, Port Arthur Historic Site, Freycinet National Park, Launceston, Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park, Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, Mount Field National Park
Tasmania (affectionately called "Tassie" by the Aussies) is a nirvana for nature lovers. The island is Australia's smallest state and an ideal destination for a self-drive tour. Almost half of its landmass is protected by national parks and World Heritage Areas, providing a pristine playground of wild rivers, misty peaks, lakes, and densely wooded forests. It's also called "the Apple Isle" because it was once one of the world's major apple producers.
Today, the state is famous for its fabulous fresh produce and artisan foods. No matter where you go, save time to savor some succulent seafood, fresh fruits, and creamy cheeses along the way. This loop through some of Tasmania's top attractions takes about five or six days plus a night or two in Hobart at each end.
Fly into Hobart, the state capital, and drive or hike to the top of kunanyi (Mount Wellington) for spectacular views over the city. Browse the shops and galleries at Salamanca Place and see cutting edge art at MONA.
After exploring Hobart , drive about an hour southeast of Hobart and tour the Port Arthur Historic Site , a former penal colony and one of the top things to do in Tasmania . After this sobering dose of convict history, explore the rugged sea cliffs and sheltered coves of nearby Tasman National Park . About 55 minutes from Hobart by car and ferry, Bruny Island is also worth a visit. Take a tasting tour of the island's gourmet treats and artisan produce, or explore the natural beauty of South Bruny National Park .
From Hobart, drive 2.5 hours northeast to World Heritage-listed Freycinet National Park for superb scenery and the perfect slice of white-sand beach at dazzling Wineglass Bay . You can explore the park on scenic drives and hiking trails — the Wineglass Bay Circuit is one of the top hikes in Australia .
From Freycinet National Park , drive about two hours to charming Launceston , Tasmania's second largest town. Here, you can admire the elegant Victorian architecture on heritage trails, visit beautiful Cataract Gorge, and tour World Heritage-listed country estates not far from the city.
From Launceston, drive south to Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park and explore stunning landscapes featuring alpine heathland, glacier-carved crags, sparkling lakes, and ancient forests. From here, drive about two hours to Strahan , a great base to explore the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park . Cruise along the Gordon River, or raft the whitewater rapids of the mighty Franklin River, one of Australia's top outdoor adventures.
From Strahan, drive 300 kilometers back to Hobart through Tasmania's World Heritage-listed wilderness areas. If you have time, stop by Mount Field National Park on the way. Hike the beautiful nature trails and see triple-tiered waterfalls.
The best time to visit Australia depends on where you want to go. To maximize your sightseeing, it's a good idea to avoid the tropics in the wet season (December to April), but every season offers unique experiences.
Winter (June through August) is a wonderful time to visit the Red Centre, when desert temperatures are milder during the day. Winter is also the dry season in Far North Queensland and the Whitsundays, which typically means sunny days and comfortable temperatures for swimming and island hopping. And of course, winter is a prime time to play in Australia's best ski resorts .
Summer (December through February) is a great time to visit the southern states, especially Tasmania. At this time of year, the warm, sunny days are perfect for basking on some of Australia's best beaches .
Planning to visit several destinations? Spring and autumn in Australia are usually good times to visit most parts of the country.
More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com
![tourism for australia image](https://www.planetware.com/photos-tiles/australia-top-hikes-kings-canyon-5.jpg)
More Australia Travel Itinerary Ideas : If you're planning a trip around Australia and you're looking for some thrills, check out our article on the Top Outdoor Adventures in Australia , from snorkeling with whale sharks to four-wheel driving on the golden beaches of Fraser Island.
Anglers will find some fantastic fishing. Discover the top spots with our list of the best fishing destinations in Australia . You can fly fish for trout, hook a marlin, or cast to cobia on crystal-clear flats.
Is trekking more your style? Add some of the top hikes Down Under to your Australia itinerary. Tackle the rugged Kings Canyon Rim Walk in the Northern Territory or climb to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko, Australia's highest peak.
![tourism for australia instagram logo](https://www.planetware.com/i/instagram-100.jpg)
More on Australia
![tourism for australia Australia Travel Guide](https://www.planetware.com/photos-tiles/australia-sydney-beach-swimmers-and-surf.jpg)
Entering or leaving Australia
Australia welcomes millions of overseas visitors each year. Anyone who is not an Australian citizen needs a valid visa to enter the country.
International passenger caps have been removed for all international passenger arrivals into Australia.
All travellers should be aware that: People entering Australia do not need to provide evidence of vaccination status People entering Australia do not need to complete the Digital Passenger Declaration or Maritime Travel Declaration People leaving Australia will not be asked to provide evidence of their vaccination status Unvaccinated visa holders do not need a travel exemption to travel to Australia Mask wearing on international flights to Australia is no longer mandatory . It is important to remember that airlines, vessel operators and other countries may have specific requirements that travellers need to comply with.
Australian Citizens
All Australian citizens must enter and exit Australia on an Australian passport. Your Australian passport must be valid (not expired) on the day of your arrival in Australia. It does not need to have six months remaining validity to enter Australia unless you are passing through a third country that requires it. Citizens are not entitled to a visa, even if you are also a citizen of another country. Please see the Department of Home Affairs website for more information.
Immigration and Visas
All foreign travellers, except New Zealand citizens, must obtain a visa or travel authority before travelling to Australia.
» Immigration and visas
If you have a specific question, please contact the Department of Home Affairs .
You will also need to know what you can and cannot bring into Australia, knowing the duty-free concession limits and what to experience when travelling through Australian airports and seaports.
Please visit the Department of Home Affairs website for more information.
Plan your trip with australia.com , the official Tourism Australia website, offering a wide range of travel information and planning tools including over 2000 images, a currency converter, daily weather updates, interactive maps, suggested holiday itineraries, holiday deals, specialist travel agents and more. Available in nine languages.
Tourist Refund Scheme
The Tourist Refund Scheme enables you to claim a refund, subject to certain conditions, of the goods and services tax (GST) and wine equalisation tax (WET) that you pay on goods you buy in Australia.
8 of the best places to visit in Australia
![tourism for australia Shaney Hudson](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2023-09/Shaney-Hudson.jpg?auto=format&w=64&h=64&fit=crop&crop=faces&q=75)
Dec 3, 2023 • 8 min read
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2023-11/GettyImages-628693522.jpg?auto=format&w=1440&h=810&fit=crop&q=75)
Narrow down the places you want to go with this guide to Australia © Nigel Killeen / Getty Images
Being tasked with choosing the best places to visit in Australia is no easy assignment.
There is no shortage of spectacular places that could make the potential shortlist, from culturally diverse cities with rich Aboriginal history dating back tens of thousands of years, to the Great Barrier Reef and the raw outback landscapes in between.
Unless you’ve got months – or even years – to spare, the country’s immense scale and the sheer diversity of experiences on offer means it’s impossible to do it all in one trip. That’s why we’ve rounded up just eight of Australia’s best places to go to help you make your own shortlist – and maybe even give you reasons to visit more than once.
![tourism for australia A dirt path leads towards a vast flat-topped mountain](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2021-06/6.%20Ryan%20Jones.jpg?auto=format&q=75&w=1920)
1. The Red Centre, Northern Territory
Australia’s most iconic outback experience
Nothing will take your breath away like a trip to the red heart of Australia in the Northern Territory . Here you can watch the sunset over Uluru – arguably the world’s most famous monolith, and spiritually significant site to the Anangu people – or be inspired by the sheer size of the 36 red domes at nearby Kata Tjuta, within the same national park. The desert’s natural beauty is only further enhanced by immersive art installations , like the new Wintjiri Wiru experience at Uluru (which tells part of an Anangu sacred story using more than 1100 drones), Bruce Munro’s Field of Light and the Light-Towers at King’s Canyon.
While there are plenty of adventure activities, like scenic flights and camel riding, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the world’s oldest continuously living culture. Walking tours and art lessons led by First Nations guides can be found near Uluru and Watarrka National Park.
Planning tip: Accommodation in the Red Centre, including campsites, is limited during the peak visitor season of June to September. Book ahead for tours and to secure accommodation.
2. Northern Rivers region, New South Wales
Best for exploring back roads
Bohemian Byron Bay – which has become a favorite destination for celebrities and backpackers alike – is probably the best known destination in northern New South Wales. But it’s just a small part of the Northern Rivers region. Head inland towards the hinterlands and you’ll find quaint villages and laid-back towns equally worth exploring. You can swim in Killen Falls, wander through the charming community of Newrybar, or sample the goods at the surrounding macadamia plantations and from farmgate stalls.
One experience not to miss is the Tweed section of Northern Rivers Rail Trail , which opened in 2023. The 24km (15-mile) abandoned railway corridor connects the region’s historic villages, best explored by bike.
Planning tip: Visit Mullumbimby Farmers Market on a Friday morning. Held at the showgrounds, you’ll be supporting micro-farmers and rubbing shoulders with locals.
![tourism for australia Two girls sit on a rock and look out over an iconic harbor, with a white opera house and a large bridge](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2023-11/GettyImages-1491114191.jpg?auto=format&q=75&w=1920)
3. Sydney, New South Wales
Australia’s best city for outdoor activities
Sydney is rightfully considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities, where the natural splendor of cityside beaches collides with incredible urban architecture, including the Opera House . It owes much of its good looks to its massive natural harbor, which is surrounded by a blend of skyscrapers, national parks and multimillion dollar homes.
During the summer, you can cool off at one of the eastern beaches (such as perennial favorite, Bondi ) or in one of the harbor’s 20 sheltered swimming spots. Try Marrinawi Cove, a new terraced sandstone swimming spot. Since opening in 2023 at Barangaroo , it’s been widely embraced by nearby office workers on their lunch breaks.
In the winter, don’t miss seeing the harbor lit up for Vivid Festival . The foreshore is transformed into a canvas for light installations and projections. The cooler daytime temperatures also make this the perfect time of year to take on the Sydney Loop walk, which covers 26km (16 miles) of Harbour foreshore.
Planning tip: Don’t miss a journey to Manly from Circular Quay on the ferry . It's an incredibly budget-friendly way to explore the harbor, taking in Parliament House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.
4. K'gari, Queensland
Best for off-grid adventuring
With a return to its traditional name in 2023, K’gari – the world’s largest sand island – has seen a surge of visitors keen to connect with Indigenous Butchulla culture. Formerly known as Fraser Island, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is rich in history and culture, but it’s also one of Australia’s best 4WD adventures.
Abounding in natural attractions, this is where you can swim in the crystal clear waters of Boorangoora/Lake McKenzie, spot dingos playing on the beach, or relax in a natural ocean spa at the Champagne Pools. Visitors can camp, stay in one of the island’s resorts or even walk nearly the full length of the island on the 90km (56 mile) K’gari Great Walk . Whatever option you choose, you’ll soon understand why “K’gari” translates to “paradise.”
Planning tip: Always carry a list of tide times, as access to some of K’gari’s most popular spots is tide dependent. The sand on the island is deep and soft, so if you’re not familiar with driving a 4WD, it may be best to book a tour with a local operator.
![tourism for australia People relax in a city square lit up at dusk](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2023-11/GettyImages-135881573.jpeg?auto=format&q=75&w=1920)
5. Melbourne
Best Australian city for nightlife
Melbourne is a 24-hour city, and come nightfall, the party gets started. Hit the laneway bars for drinks and bites, and don’t miss a live show: iconic St Kilda music venue the Espy offers three stages for live acts. Meanwhile over in Collingwood, the Tote is so beloved that locals crowdfunded to keep it open.
Melbourne is also famous for its comedy clubs. Check out Spleen Bar or Basement Comedy Club , or time your visit to coincide with the Melbourne International Comedy Festival , held every autumn (March to April).
When the gigs are done, settle in for a drink at one of Melbourne’s signature late-night bars like Nick & Nora's and Cherry Bar , or if you’re feeling hungry, fill up at Stalactites .
Planning tip: Melbourne has a specific set of Night Network trains, trams and buses , which operate on Friday and Saturday nights to make sure you can get from bar to bar safely and back home again with ease.
6. Margaret River, Western Australia
Best for wineries and adventure
From New South Wales to South Australia , Australia is spoiled for wine regions. What sets Western Australia’s Margaret River apart is that its food and wine offerings are complemented by incredible natural attractions. Located just south of Perth , this corner of Australia is considered one the world’s biodiversity hot spots. It has a high concentration of endemic species, including numbats (a marsupial with behavior similar to a meerkat), Western ringtail possums and around 8000 species of vascular plants, 80% of which are found nowhere else on earth.
The wine is just as notable, with roughly 95 wineries producing award-winning sauvignon blanc, cabernet sauvignon, semillon and chardonnay. And when you need to work off all the food and drink, you can paddle out in the legendary southwesterly swell at some of state’s best surf beaches, go deep underground on a tour of the region’s limestone cave systems, or walk a portion of the 123km (76-mile) Cape to Cape track along the coast.
Planning tip: Learn more about the traditional owners of the land, the Wadandi (Saltwater) people at Koomal Dreaming , which offers guided walks and food experiences.
![tourism for australia A group seal lions play and lounge and squabble on the beach](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2023-11/shutterstockRF569142784.jpg?auto=format&q=75&w=1920)
7. Kangaroo Island
The best place for an Australian wildlife safari
Just across the water from Adelaide is Kangaroo Island (KI), a haven for wildlife, including its namesake kangaroos alongside wallabies, koalas, echidnas and platypus. You can watch the island’s little penguins waddle to their dens at Penneshaw and see (and smell) the world’s third-largest sea lion colony lounge amongst the limestone cliffs at Seal Bay Conservation Area . If you’re lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of the endangered glossy black cockatoo with their red tails, or the exceptionally shy Kangaroo Island dunnart, a type of tiny marsupial endemic to the island.
KI isn’t just a refuge for wild things; though. It’s also home to countless local producers , including distilleries, wineries and beekeepers, the latter of whom produce honey made from the only purebred Ligurian bee colony left in the world. Needless to say, there’s a reason we named it one of the best places to visit in 2024 .
Planning tip: Many of Kangaroo Island’s native species, including kangaroos, are more active at night. As such, it’s advisable to avoid driving at this time.
8. Tasmania
Best for igniting all the senses
Home to a thriving festival scene, a world-class art gallery and an unbridled wilderness adored by nature lovers, Tasmania is one of Australia’s most diverse destinations, capable of stimulating all your senses.
Here, you can taste whisky at Lark Distillery , Australia’s first carbon-neutral distillery on Hobart ’s waterfront, eat freshly shucked oysters on Bruny Island , or dine at restaurants like Stillwater in Launceston , a UNESCO City of Gastronomy (one of only roughly 50 world cities to earn this accolade).
You can see weird and wonderful art at the controversial Mona (Museum of Old and New Art). You can hear international music at the popular Dark Mofo and Mona Foma winter and summer festival. You can feel the ground beneath your feet as you explore one of the state’s hiking trails. And you can smell the fresh sea air while on a boat tour around some of the world’s highest sea cliffs .
Planning tip: Renting a car can be tricky during Tasmania’s busy summer season, so it pays to book ahead. Likewise, if you plan to take the car ferry from the mainland , the route often sells out. Bookings may be made up to 11 months in advance.
This article was first published Jun 17, 2021 and updated Dec 3, 2023.
Explore related stories
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2024-05/GettyImages-2054050126-cropped.jpg?auto=format&w=730&h=630&fit=crop&q=75)
May 21, 2024 • 11 min read
Looking to travel for Pride festivities in 2024? Here are 12 cities all over the world that offer a plethora of joyous parades, street fairs and parties.
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2024-05/GettyImages-553822763-cropped.jpg?auto=format&w=140&h=140&fit=crop&q=75)
May 8, 2024 • 5 min read
![tourism for australia Where to go in June 2024 Sicily](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2024-04/where-to-go-june-2024.jpg?auto=format&w=140&h=140&fit=crop&q=75)
Apr 15, 2024 • 10 min read
![tourism for australia Sandboarding-at-Lancelin-Sand-Dunes-IMG6009-credit-Jessica-Wynne-Lockhart.jpeg](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2024-04/Sandboarding-at-Lancelin-Sand-Dunes-IMG6009-credit-Jessica-Wynne-Lockhart.jpeg?auto=format&w=140&h=140&fit=crop&q=75)
Apr 4, 2024 • 5 min read
![tourism for australia Couple running through Dublin's Temple Bar.](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2022-12/Couple%20running%20through%20Dublin%27s%20Temple%20Bar%20David%20Levingstone%20GettyImages-599594869%20rfc.jpg?auto=format&w=140&h=140&fit=crop&q=75)
Mar 30, 2024 • 4 min read
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2023-10/GettyImages-1087048442.jpeg?auto=format&w=140&h=140&fit=crop&q=75)
Mar 29, 2024 • 19 min read
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2024-03/shutterstock60333574.jpg?auto=format&w=140&h=140&fit=crop&q=75)
Mar 26, 2024 • 8 min read
![tourism for australia Where-Locals-Go-Australia.png](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2024-02/Where-Locals-Go-Australia.png?auto=format&w=140&h=140&fit=crop&q=75)
Feb 27, 2024 • 6 min read
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2024-02/GettyImages-892991666.jpeg?auto=format&w=140&h=140&fit=crop&q=75)
Feb 15, 2024 • 7 min read
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://lp-cms-production.imgix.net/2024-02/shutterstock2329933261-16.9.jpg?auto=format&w=140&h=140&fit=crop&q=75)
Feb 9, 2024 • 12 min read
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://www.tra.gov.au/adobe/dynamicmedia/deliver/dm-aid--642d92cf-de2a-4d60-a609-4600c6bd3e86/tra-bnr-home.jpg?preferwebp=true&quality=82)
Tourism Research Australia
Tourism Research Australia (TRA) is a branch within Austrade. We are Australia's leading provider of quality tourism intelligence across both international and domestic markets.
Main content
Domestic mobility data.
Monthly mobility data to report on domestic visitor movement.
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://www.tra.gov.au/content/dam/austrade-assets/global/wip/tra/images/thumbnails/tra-thm-mobility-data.jpg)
National Visitor Survey results
Latest quarterly results are available now.
NVS quarterly results
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://www.tra.gov.au/content/dam/austrade-assets/global/wip/tra/images/tra-brisbane-river-at-night.jpg)
International Visitor Survey results
IVS quarterly results
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://www.tra.gov.au/content/dam/austrade-assets/global/wip/tra/images/tra-horseshoe-bend.jpg)
Tourism Investment Monitor
Outlining the number and value of significant infrastructure projects of Australia’s tourism industry.
Summary and report
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://www.tra.gov.au/content/dam/austrade-assets/global/wip/tra/images/thumbnails/tra-thm-tim.jpg)
Tourism industry impact
Attach_money $36.5bn.
In 2021-22, tourism directly contributed 1.6% of Australia's GDP
business_center 1 in 22 jobs
Directly employed 713,000 people to June 2023
directions_boat $31.2bn
Accounted for 6.6% of Australia's total exports (pre-pandemic)
apartment 1 in 7 businesses
In June 2022, there were 358,300 tourism related businesses
Latest publications
Visitor economy facts and figures.
A quick and easy reference for the major factors affecting Australia’s visitor economy.
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://www.tra.gov.au/adobe/dynamicmedia/deliver/dm-aid--7a15a659-6df4-4d6a-9bab-4e57990eed65/tra-thm-veff.jpg?preferwebp=true&quality=82)
Business Events Data
Business events are important contributors to Australia’s visitor economy.
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://www.tra.gov.au/adobe/dynamicmedia/deliver/dm-aid--01e3e55e-70ef-4d26-82bd-c254185717c7/tra-bnr2-economic-analysis.jpg?preferwebp=true&quality=82)
Tourism Forecasts
Outlook for domestic and international tourism in Australia.
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://www.tra.gov.au/adobe/dynamicmedia/deliver/dm-aid--862aa3bd-87b5-4f55-a218-dce9573b3275/tra-thm-tourism-forecast-2023.jpg?preferwebp=true&quality=82)
![](http://britannia.fun/777/templates/cheerup/res/banner1.gif)
Accessible Tourism in Australia
Data and insights regarding travellers with accessibility needs in Australia.
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://www.tra.gov.au/adobe/dynamicmedia/deliver/dm-aid--3c112e60-b6cd-4da6-b5d6-f01bf2bed027/accessible-tourism-banner-wharf.jpg?preferwebp=true&quality=82)
National Tourism Satellite Account
View the latest report on Australian tourism's economic value.
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://www.tra.gov.au/adobe/dynamicmedia/deliver/dm-aid--9df89053-10ba-45fd-ae13-cef735a22fd8/tra-thm-ntsa.jpg?preferwebp=true&quality=82)
Footer content
Travel, Tourism & Hospitality
Travel and tourism industry in Australia - statistics & facts
Inbound tourism: the road to recovery, outbound tourism: top destinations and interests, domestic tourism: exploring their own backyard, key insights.
Detailed statistics
Number of international visitors to Australia FY 2023, by country of residence
Number of outbound tourists from Australia FY 2023, by destination
Direct tourism GDP growth rate Australia FY 2006-2023
Editor’s Picks Current statistics on this topic
Number of visitors at Sydney Airport Australia Feb 2019-Dec 2023, by passenger type
Breakdown of hotels Sydney Australia 2023, by category
Number of domestic visitors Sydney, Australia 2014-2023, by type of trip
Further recommended statistics
- Premium Statistic Share of the GDP of the tourism sector in Australia 2013-2028
- Basic Statistic Direct tourism GDP Australia FY 2006-2023
- Basic Statistic Direct tourism GDP growth rate Australia FY 2006-2023
- Basic Statistic Tourism contribution Australia FY 2023, by industry
- Premium Statistic Tourism contribution Australia FY 2023, by state
- Premium Statistic Number of tourism businesses Australia 2023, by type
- Premium Statistic Tourism sector employment Australia FY 2023, by state and type
Share of the GDP of the tourism sector in Australia 2013-2028
Share of the GDP of the tourism sector in Australia from 2013 to 2028
Direct tourism GDP Australia FY 2006-2023
Direct tourism gross domestic product (GDP) in Australia from financial year 2006 to 2023 (in billion Australian dollars)
Growth of direct tourism gross domestic product (GDP) in Australia from financial year 2006 to 2023
Tourism contribution Australia FY 2023, by industry
Gross value added (GVA) of tourism in Australia in financial year 2023, by tourism related industry (in billion Australian dollars)
Tourism contribution Australia FY 2023, by state
Gross value added (GVA) of tourism in Australia in financial year 2023, by state (in billion Australian dollars)
Number of tourism businesses Australia 2023, by type
Number of businesses in the tourism sector in Australia as of June 2023, by type (in 1,000s)
Tourism sector employment Australia FY 2023, by state and type
Number of employees in the tourism sector in Australia in financial year 2023, by state and type (in 1,000s)
Inbound tourism
- Premium Statistic Number of international visitors to Australia FY 2010-2023
- Premium Statistic Number of international visitors to Australia FY 2023, by country of residence
- Premium Statistic Number of international visitors to Australia FY 2023, by age group
- Premium Statistic Number of international visitors to Australia FY 2023, by state visited
- Premium Statistic Number of international visitors to Australia FY 2023, by purpose of visit
- Premium Statistic International visitor trip expenditure Australia FY 2010-2023
- Premium Statistic International visitor trip expenditure Australia FY 2023, by country of residence
Number of international visitors to Australia FY 2010-2023
Number of international visitor arrivals to Australia from financial year 2010 to 2023 (in millions)
Number of international visitor arrivals to Australia in financial year 2023, by country of residence (in 1,000s)
Number of international visitors to Australia FY 2023, by age group
Number of international visitor arrivals to Australia in financial year 2023, by age group (in 1,000s)
Number of international visitors to Australia FY 2023, by state visited
Number of international visitor arrivals to Australia in financial year 2023, by state visited (in 1,000s)
Number of international visitors to Australia FY 2023, by purpose of visit
Number of international visitor arrivals to Australia in financial year 2023, by purpose of visit (in 1,000s)
International visitor trip expenditure Australia FY 2010-2023
Total trip expenditure of international visitors in Australia from financial year 2010 to 2023 (in billion Australian dollars)
International visitor trip expenditure Australia FY 2023, by country of residence
Trip expenditure of international visitors to Australia in financial year 2023, by country of residence (in million Australian dollars)
Outbound tourism
- Premium Statistic Number of outbound tourists from Australia FY 2006-2023
- Basic Statistic Number of outbound tourists from Australia 2017-2024, by state of residence
- Premium Statistic Number of outbound tourists from Australia FY 2023, by destination
- Premium Statistic Outbound tourist trip expenditure FY 2019-2023
- Premium Statistic Outbound tourist trip expenditure Australia FY 2023, by destination
- Premium Statistic Leading tourism experience interests among outbound travelers Australia 2022
- Premium Statistic Leading sport tourism experience interests of outbound travelers Australia 2022
Number of outbound tourists from Australia FY 2006-2023
Number of overseas departures of Australian residents from Australia from financial year 2006 to 2023 (in 1,000s)
Number of outbound tourists from Australia 2017-2024, by state of residence
Number of outbound tourists from Australia from January 2017 to January 2024, by state of residence
Number of outbound tourists from Australia in financial year 2023, by destination (in thousands)
Outbound tourist trip expenditure FY 2019-2023
Trip expenditure of Australian outbound travelers from financial year 2019 to 2023 (in billion Australian dollars)
Outbound tourist trip expenditure Australia FY 2023, by destination
Trip expenditure of Australian outbound travelers in financial year 2023, by destination (in million Australian dollars)
Leading tourism experience interests among outbound travelers Australia 2022
Leading tourism experience interests among outbound travelers from Australia in 2022
Leading sport tourism experience interests of outbound travelers Australia 2022
Leading sport tourism experience interests among outbound travelers from Australia in 2022
Domestic tourism
- Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Australia 2014-2023
- Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Australia 2023, by state visited
- Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight visitors Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
- Premium Statistic Domestic overnight tourist trip expenditure Australia FY 2014-2023
- Premium Statistic Domestic overnight tourist trip expenditure Australia 2023, by state or territory
- Premium Statistic Number of domestic day visitors Australia 2023, by state visited
- Premium Statistic Number of domestic day visitors Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
Number of domestic overnight visitors Australia 2014-2023
Number of domestic overnight visitors in Australia from 2014 to 2023 (in millions)
Number of domestic overnight visitors Australia 2023, by state visited
Number of domestic overnight visitors in Australia in 2023, by state visited (in millions)
Number of domestic overnight visitors Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
Number of domestic overnight visitors in Australia in 2023, by purpose of visit (in millions)
Domestic overnight tourist trip expenditure Australia FY 2014-2023
Trip expenditure of domestic overnight visitors in Australia from financial year 2014 to 2023 (in billion Australian dollars)
Domestic overnight tourist trip expenditure Australia 2023, by state or territory
Trip expenditure of domestic overnight visitors in Australia in 2023, by state visited (in billion Australian dollars)
Number of domestic day visitors Australia 2023, by state visited
Number of domestic day visitors in Australia in 2023, by state visited (in millions)
Number of domestic day visitors Australia 2023, by purpose of visit
Number of domestic day visitors in Australia in 2023, by purpose of visit (in millions)
Further reports
Get the best reports to understand your industry.
- Travel accommodation in Australia
- Travel and tourism in New Zealand
- Domestic tourism in Australia
- Camping and caravanning in Australia
Mon - Fri, 9am - 6pm (EST)
Mon - Fri, 9am - 5pm (SGT)
Mon - Fri, 10:00am - 6:00pm (JST)
Mon - Fri, 9:30am - 5pm (GMT)
![Zebedee Springs, The Kimberley, Western Australia © Tourism Australia Zebedee Springs, The Kimberley, Western Australia © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/travel-inspiration/australia-recommends-best-places-to-visit/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Australia Recommends 2024
![Sydney, NSW © Tourism Australia Sydney, NSW © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/travel-inspiration/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Come and Say G'day
![Uluru, NT Uluru, NT](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/gday-the-short-film/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
G'day, the short film
![Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Victoria © Tourism Australia Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Victoria © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/discover-your-australia/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Discover your Australia
![Kangaroo Island, South Australia © Tourism Australia Kangaroo Island, South Australia © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/travel-inspiration/australia-travel-videos/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Travel videos
![Elysian Retreat, Whitsundays, QLD © Tourism Australia Elysian Retreat, Whitsundays, QLD © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/deals-and-travel-packages/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Deals and offers
![Jacarandas and Sydney Harbour at sunset, Sydney, NSW © Destination NSW Jacarandas and Sydney Harbour at sunset, Sydney, NSW © Destination NSW](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/sydney-and-surrounds/guide-to-sydney/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Australian Capital Territory
![Bondi, Sydney, NSW © Georges Antoni and Ken Butti Bondi, Sydney, NSW © Georges Antoni and Ken Butti](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/new-south-wales/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
New South Wales
![West MacDonnell Ranges, NT © Tourism Australia West MacDonnell Ranges, NT © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/northern-territory/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Northern Territory
![Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, QLD © Tourism Australia Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, QLD © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/queensland/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
South Australia
![Cradle Mountain, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, TAS © Pierre Destribats Cradle Mountain, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, TAS © Pierre Destribats](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/tasmania/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Western Australia
![Aerial shot of Emily Bay on Norfolk Island © Rose Evans (Norfolk Island Tourism) Aerial shot of Emily Bay on Norfolk Island © Rose Evans (Norfolk Island Tourism)](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/external-territories/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
External Territories
![Bondi Beach, Sydney, NSW © Daniel Tran Bondi Beach, Sydney, NSW © Daniel Tran](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/sydney-and-surrounds/guide-to-bondi/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
The Whitsundays
![Kangaroo, Lucky Bay, Cape Le Grand National Park, WA © Tourism Western Australia Kangaroo, Lucky Bay, Cape Le Grand National Park, WA © Tourism Western Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/perth-and-surrounds/guide-to-esperance/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Mornington Peninsula
![Paddleboarding, Noosa, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland Paddleboarding, Noosa, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/brisbane-and-surrounds/guide-to-noosa/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Port Douglas
![Cape Byron Lighthouse, Byron Bay, NSW © Destination NSW Cape Byron Lighthouse, Byron Bay, NSW © Destination NSW](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/sydney-and-surrounds/guide-to-byron-bay/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Ningaloo Reef
![Airlie Beach, Whitsunday Coast, QLD © Tourism Whitsundays Airlie Beach, Whitsunday Coast, QLD © Tourism Whitsundays](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/whitsundays-and-surrounds/guide-to-airlie-beach/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Airlie Beach
![Remarkable Rocks, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. © South Australian Tourism Commission Remarkable Rocks, Kangaroo Island, South Australia. © South Australian Tourism Commission](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/adelaide-and-surrounds/guide-to-kangaroo-island/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Kangaroo Island
![The Basin, Rottnest Island, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia The Basin, Rottnest Island, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/perth-and-surrounds/guide-to-rottnest-island/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Rottnest Island
![Lake McKenzie, K’gari (Fraser Island), QLD © Tourism & Events Queensland Lake McKenzie, K’gari (Fraser Island), QLD © Tourism & Events Queensland](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/brisbane-and-surrounds/guide-to-kgari/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Hamilton Island
![Lord Howe Island, NSW © Trevor King, Destination New South Wales Lord Howe Island, NSW © Trevor King, Destination New South Wales](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/sydney-and-surrounds/guide-to-lord-howe-island/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Lord Howe Island
![Tiwi Design, Tiwi Islands © Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught Tiwi Design, Tiwi Islands © Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/darwin-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-tiwi-islands/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Tiwi Islands
![Little penguins, Phillip Island Nature Park, VIC © Phillip Island Nature Park Little penguins, Phillip Island Nature Park, VIC © Phillip Island Nature Park](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/melbourne-and-surrounds/guide-to-phillip-island/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Phillip Island
![Bruny Island Paddle, Southern Sea Ventures, Bruny Island, Tasmania © Southern Sea Ventures Bruny Island Paddle, Southern Sea Ventures, Bruny Island, Tasmania © Southern Sea Ventures](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/hobart-and-surrounds/guide-to-bruny-island/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Bruny Island
![Cape Naturaliste, near Dunsborough, WA © Tourism Western Australia Cape Naturaliste, near Dunsborough, WA © Tourism Western Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/perth-and-surrounds/guide-to-margaret-river/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Margaret River
![St Hugo Wines, Barossa Valley, SA © Tourism Australia St Hugo Wines, Barossa Valley, SA © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/adelaide-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-barossa-valley/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Barossa Valley
![Grampians National Park, Victoria © Robert Blackburn, Visit Victoria Grampians National Park, Victoria © Robert Blackburn, Visit Victoria](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/melbourne-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-grampians/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
The Grampians
![Audrey Wilkinson, Hunter Valley, NSW © Audrey Wilkinson Audrey Wilkinson, Hunter Valley, NSW © Audrey Wilkinson](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/sydney-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-hunter-valley/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Hunter Valley
![Sea turtle, Lady Elliot Island, Great Barrier Reef, QLD © Tourism & Events Queensland Sea turtle, Lady Elliot Island, Great Barrier Reef, QLD © Tourism & Events Queensland](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/brisbane-and-surrounds/guide-to-bundaberg/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
McLaren Vale
![Glass House Mountains, Sunshine Coast, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland Glass House Mountains, Sunshine Coast, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/brisbane-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-glass-house-mountains/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Glass House Mountains
![Bubble Tents, Capertree, Mudgee Region, NSW © Australian Traveller Bubble Tents, Capertree, Mudgee Region, NSW © Australian Traveller](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/sydney-and-surrounds/guide-to-mudgee/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Alice Springs
![Cable Beach, Broome, Western Australia © Tourism Australia Cable Beach, Broome, Western Australia © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/broome-and-surrounds/guide-to-broome/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Uluru and Kata Tjuta
![The Kimberley, WA © Tourism Australia The Kimberley, WA © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/broome-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-kimberley/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
The Kimberley
![The Arkaba Walk, Elder Camp, Flinders Ranges National Park, SA © Adam Bruzzone, South Australian Tourism Commission The Arkaba Walk, Elder Camp, Flinders Ranges National Park, SA © Adam Bruzzone, South Australian Tourism Commission](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/adelaide-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-flinders-ranges/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Flinders Ranges
![Jim Jim Falls, Kakadu National Park, NT © Jarrad Seng, all rights reserved Jim Jim Falls, Kakadu National Park, NT © Jarrad Seng, all rights reserved](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/darwin-and-surrounds/guide-to-kakadu-national-park/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Kakadu National Park
![Eyre Peninsula, SA © David Edgar Eyre Peninsula, SA © David Edgar](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/adelaide-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-eyre-peninsula/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Eyre Peninsula
![Hamersley Gorge , Karijini National Park, WA © Tourism Western Australia Hamersley Gorge , Karijini National Park, WA © Tourism Western Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/perth-and-surrounds/guide-to-karijini-national-park/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Karijini National Park
![Monkey Mia, Shark Bay World Heritage Area, WA © Tourism Western Australia Monkey Mia, Shark Bay World Heritage Area, WA © Tourism Western Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/perth-and-surrounds/guide-to-monkey-mia/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Great Barrier Reef
![Blue Mountains, NSW © Destination NSW Blue Mountains, NSW © Destination NSW](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/sydney-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-blue-mountains/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Blue Mountains
![Cassowary in Daintree Rainforest, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland Cassowary in Daintree Rainforest, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/cairns-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-daintree-rainforest/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Daintree Rainforest
![Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, VIC © Greg Snell, Tourism Australia Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, VIC © Greg Snell, Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/melbourne-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-great-ocean-road/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Great Ocean Road
![Spicers Peak, Scenic Rim, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland Spicers Peak, Scenic Rim, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/gold-coast-and-surrounds/guide-to-the-scenic-rim/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Purnululu National Park
![Boat Shed, Lake Dove and Cradle Mountain, Cradle-Mountain Lake St Clare National Park, TAS © Adrian Cook Boat Shed, Lake Dove and Cradle Mountain, Cradle-Mountain Lake St Clare National Park, TAS © Adrian Cook](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/hobart-and-surrounds/guide-to-cradle-mountain-lake-st-clair-national-park/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
![Wangi Falls, Litchfield National Park, NT © Tourism NT, Dan Moore Wangi Falls, Litchfield National Park, NT © Tourism NT, Dan Moore](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/darwin-and-surrounds/guide-to-litchfield-national-park/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Litchfield National Park
![Saffire Signature Experiences, Freycinet Marine Oyster Farm, Coles Bay, Freycinet National Park, TAS © Tourism Tasmania Saffire Signature Experiences, Freycinet Marine Oyster Farm, Coles Bay, Freycinet National Park, TAS © Tourism Tasmania](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/hobart-and-surrounds/guide-to-freycinet/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Aboriginal experiences
![National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, VIC © Robert Blackburn, Visit Victoria National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, VIC © Robert Blackburn, Visit Victoria](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/things-to-do/arts-and-culture/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Arts and culture
![WOMADelaide 2019, Adelaide, SA Ⓒ Grant Hancock WOMADelaide 2019, Adelaide, SA Ⓒ Grant Hancock](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/events/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Festivals and events
![Detour Restaurant, Brisbane, QLD © @detourrestaurant and @dine.agency Detour Restaurant, Brisbane, QLD © @detourrestaurant and @dine.agency](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/things-to-do/food-and-drinks/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Food and drink
![Raging Thunder, Tully, QLD © Tourism Australia Raging Thunder, Tully, QLD © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/things-to-do/adventure-and-sports/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Adventure and sports
![Three Capes Track, Tasman National Park, TAS © Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service Three Capes Track, Tasman National Park, TAS © Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/things-to-do/walks-and-hikes/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Walks and hikes
![Great Ocean Road, VIC © Tourism Australia Great Ocean Road, VIC © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/trips-and-itineraries/self-drive-itineraries/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Road trips and drives
![Waterline Charters, Wessel Islands, NT © Aussie Fly Fisher Waterline Charters, Wessel Islands, NT © Aussie Fly Fisher](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/things-to-do/adventure-and-sports/great-fishing-adventures/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Beaches and islands
![Nature's Window, Kalbarri National Park, WA © Tourism Australia Nature's Window, Kalbarri National Park, WA © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/things-to-do/nature-and-national-parks/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Nature and national parks
![Wombat, Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh, NSW © Destination NSW Wombat, Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh, NSW © Destination NSW](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/things-to-do/wildlife/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Eco-friendly travel
![Group of friends participate in a body clay ritual at Peninsula Hot Springs © Peninsula Hot Springs Group of friends participate in a body clay ritual at Peninsula Hot Springs © Peninsula Hot Springs](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/things-to-do/health-and-wellness-experiences/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Health and wellness
![The Dune Pavilion Deck with views of Uluru at Longitude 131 in the Northern Territory © Baillies Longitude 131 The Dune Pavilion Deck with views of Uluru at Longitude 131 in the Northern Territory © Baillies Longitude 131](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/things-to-do/luxury/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Family travel
![Table Cape Tulip Farm, Wynyard, Tasmania © Tourism Australia Table Cape Tulip Farm, Wynyard, Tasmania © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/things-to-do/family/top-family-destinations-australia/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Family destinations
![Hellfire Bay, Esperance, Western Australia © Tourism Australia Hellfire Bay, Esperance, Western Australia © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/things-to-do/family/best-family-road-trips-in-australia/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Family road trips
![Merewether Baths, Newcastle, NSW © Destination NSW Merewether Baths, Newcastle, NSW © Destination NSW](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/youth-travel/backpacking-in-australia/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Backpacking
![Ellery Creek Big Hole, West MacDonnell Ranges, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Salty Aura Ellery Creek Big Hole, West MacDonnell Ranges, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Salty Aura](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/youth-travel/work-and-volunteer-in-australia/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Work and holiday
![Sand Dune Adventures at Stockton Beach, Port Stephens, NSW © Tourism Australia Sand Dune Adventures at Stockton Beach, Port Stephens, NSW © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/youth-travel/working-holiday-visa/faq/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Beginner's guide
![Man in a wheelchair looking up at the canopy of the Daintree Rainforest in Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland Man in a wheelchair looking up at the canopy of the Daintree Rainforest in Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/getting-around/accessible-travel-in-australia/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Accessible travel
![Mrs Macquarie's Chair, Sydney, NSW © Destination NSW Mrs Macquarie's Chair, Sydney, NSW © Destination NSW](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/getting-to-australia/australia-trip-planner-tools-and-tips/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Planning tips
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/trip-planner/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Trip planner
![Cape Tribulation, Tropical North Queensland, QLD © Tourism Australia Cape Tribulation, Tropical North Queensland, QLD © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/about-australia/australia-on-budget/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Australian budget guide
![Aerial of car driving through palm trees in Tropical North Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland / Sean Scott. Aerial of car driving through palm trees in Tropical North Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland / Sean Scott.](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/trips-and-itineraries/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Itinerary planner
![Kangaroo, Lucky Bay, Esperance, WA © Australia’s Golden Outback Kangaroo, Lucky Bay, Esperance, WA © Australia’s Golden Outback](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/planning-tools/find-a-travel-agent/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Find a travel agent
![Beach House on Wategos Beach, Byron Bay, NSW © Tourism Australia Beach House on Wategos Beach, Byron Bay, NSW © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/planning-tools/find-accommodation/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Find accommodation
![Indian Pacific, Lake Hart, SA © Andrew Gregory Indian Pacific, Lake Hart, SA © Andrew Gregory](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/planning-tools/find-tours/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Find transport
![Snowy region, Jindabyne, NSW © DPIE-Murray Van Der Veer Snowy region, Jindabyne, NSW © DPIE-Murray Van Der Veer](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/about-australia/find-accredited-visitor-information-centres/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Visitor information centres
Deals and travel packages
![Sydney Airport, New South Wales © Sydney Airport Sydney Airport, New South Wales © Sydney Airport](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/visa-and-customs/australia-visa-and-entry-requirements-faqs/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Visa and entry requirements FAQ
![Passengers using SmartGate © Australian Border Force Passengers using SmartGate © Australian Border Force](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/visa-and-customs/australia-customs-and-biosecurity-faqs/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Customs and biosecurity
![Uluru, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, NT © Tourism NT/Matt Cherubino Uluru, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, NT © Tourism NT/Matt Cherubino](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/youth-travel/working-holiday-visa/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Working Holiday Maker visas
![Bronte Baths, Bronte Beach, Sydney, NSW © Tourism Australia Bronte Baths, Bronte Beach, Sydney, NSW © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/about-australia/key-facts-about-australia/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Facts about Australia
![Prairie Hotel, Parachilna, SA © South Australian Tourism Commission Prairie Hotel, Parachilna, SA © South Australian Tourism Commission](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/about-australia/everyday-aussie-things-to-try/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Experiences that will make you feel like an Aussie
![Great Barrier Reef, QLD © Georges Antoni / Tourism Australia Great Barrier Reef, QLD © Georges Antoni / Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/about-australia/the-aussie-way-of-life/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
People and culture
![Castle Hill, Townsville, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland Castle Hill, Townsville, QLD © Tourism and Events Queensland](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/health-and-safety/faq/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Health and safety FAQ
![Sorrento Pier, VIC © Visit Victoria, Ewen Bell Sorrento Pier, VIC © Visit Victoria, Ewen Bell](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/weather-in-australia/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Cities, states & territories
![Mount Lidgbird and Mount Gower, Lord Howe Island © Tom Archer Mount Lidgbird and Mount Gower, Lord Howe Island © Tom Archer](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/places/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Iconic places and attractions
![Wildflowers, near Hamelin Pool, WA © Tourism Western Australia Wildflowers, near Hamelin Pool, WA © Tourism Western Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/when-to-go/best-time-to-visit/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
When is the best time to visit Australia?
![Ringer Reef Winery, Bright, VIC © Visit Victoria Ringer Reef Winery, Bright, VIC © Visit Victoria](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/things-to-do/seasonal-travel/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Seasonal travel
![Human Progress Pride flag, Sydney, NSW © Daniel Boud Human Progress Pride flag, Sydney, NSW © Daniel Boud](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/events/australias-events-calendar/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Events and festivals
![Silverdale Olive Orchard, Coral Coast, WA © Australia's Coral Coast Silverdale Olive Orchard, Coral Coast, WA © Australia's Coral Coast](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/when-to-go/australian-school-holidays/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
School holidays
![Sydney New Year's Eve, Sydney Harbour, NSW © Destination NSW Sydney New Year's Eve, Sydney Harbour, NSW © Destination NSW](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/when-to-go/australian-public-holidays/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Public holidays
![Sydney Harbour, Sydney, NSW © Destination NSW Sydney Harbour, Sydney, NSW © Destination NSW](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/getting-around/how-to-get-to-australias-most-iconic-cities-and-destinations/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
How to get to Australia's most iconic cities
![Gantheaume Point, Broome, WA © Tourism Australia Gantheaume Point, Broome, WA © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/planning-tools/how-long-to-visit/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
How long do I need for my trip to Australia?
![Self-drive, Marrawah, TAS © Tourism Tasmania Self-drive, Marrawah, TAS © Tourism Tasmania](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/getting-around/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
How to travel around Australia
![Car driving on road next to the ocean in Lagoons Beach Conservation Area © Pete Harmsen/Tourism Tasmania Car driving on road next to the ocean in Lagoons Beach Conservation Area © Pete Harmsen/Tourism Tasmania](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/getting-around/driving-in-australia/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Guide to driving in Australia
![Maui Motorhome parked on the coastline in Tasmania © Tourism Australia Maui Motorhome parked on the coastline in Tasmania © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/getting-around/how-to-hire-a-car-or-campervan/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
How to hire a car or campervan
![Family strolling alongside Tilligerry Creek © Destination NSW Family strolling alongside Tilligerry Creek © Destination NSW](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/getting-around/family-road-trip/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
How to plan a family road trip
![Car drives along the Matilda Way in Outback Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland Car drives along the Matilda Way in Outback Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/getting-around/outback-road-trip/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
How to plan an outback road trip
![tourism for australia wishlist](https://www.australia.com/content/dam/digital/australia-com/campaigns/brand-30/wishlist-prompt-ruby-image.png)
Visiting Australia
What to bring, money and currency, health and safety.
![Bronte Baths, Bronte Beach, Sydney, NSW © Tourism Australia Bronte Baths, Bronte Beach, Sydney, NSW © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/about-australia/key-facts-about-australia/_jcr_content/hero/mobile.adapt.768.high.jpg)
What do you need for your trip Down Under? We’re glad you asked. Here are our practical tips and some helpful things to know before going to Australia
Putting together your Australian itinerary – choosing where to go and what to see – is the fun side of holiday planning. There’s also a practical side, which is just as important to ensure your time in Australia is as hassle-free and harmonious as possible. From visa information to packing tips and accommodation details, here are the key facts about Australia to help you on your way.
Due to Australia’s size, there are many different climates and weather patterns, which means Australia is the perfect place to visit all year round!
In the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. So, when things get colder up north, come Down Under to enjoy an endless summer.
Down Under, of course! Australia is located in the Southern Hemisphere and lies in between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. We’re only ever a flight or two away, so it’s easy to fly to Australia .
There are six states and two territories in Australia , each with its own capital city. Each state experiences different climates and time zones making your travel plans possible all year round. From skiing down the Australian Alps, to strolling along white sand beaches, we’ve got your next holiday sorted.
Australia’s official language is English. However, Australia is a multicultural nation with a significant migrant population, so it's common to hear a diverse range of languages in Australia's cities and towns.
Australia is such a diverse country. Aussies have a rich and varied cultural history but the one thing they have in common is that they come together over food and drink and to enjoy the world famous landscape. The Australian lifestyle is often associated with a laid-back ‘no worries’ attitude. And for good reason. We’re a friendly bunch, and we love welcoming visitors to our shores.
Everyone should experience Australia in their lifetime! A holiday Down Under is sure to be the trip you will never forget. Check out a few reasons as to why Australia is the best place to visit .
You can get to Australia by sea or sky. There are plenty of air and cruise lines, meaning getting to Australia is easy and accessible from just about anywhere.
After your arrival, you'll find many ways to travel around Australia , each offering a unique way to experience the country. For getting around day-to-day, there’s plenty of clean and safe public transport, as well as taxis and rideshare services, if you aren’t renting a vehicle. For travel between states, flights are the most suitable for shorter stays, though, with a bit more time, road trips and train travel offer an excellent way to witness the natural diversity.
Australia is a country for all seasons! Visit at any time of year to find incredible experiences that will guarantee lasting memories. Some considerations when choosing the best time to visit Australia include the destination you want to explore, weather and events. Summer (November to February) is the peak season for travel, thanks to school holidays and the draw of our incredible beaches. You may find it’s busier and more expensive in peak season, while shoulder seasons offer great weather and smaller crowds.
From farm stays and campsites to luxury lodges and eco-friendly beachside resorts, there’s accommodation for everyone in Australia.
The legal drinking age in all states and territories of Australia is 18 years old. You will need to provide proof of age, either with a driver's licence or passport.
To get into licensed pubs and bars you will need either your passport and another supporting document (Drivers Licence, Credit Card or Birth Certificate) to enter and be served alcohol.
The International Date Line crossing the Pacific Ocean changes the date by one day. If you cross the date line moving east, you subtract a day; if travelling west you add a day (with local variations). Travelling direct from Los Angeles or London to Australia you arrive two days later; travelling back, you arrive the same day you departed.
If you have a disability and are planning to travel throughout Australia, there are many services to meet your needs. Thorough preparation is essential for a successful trip, so you should speak to your travel agent about your specific requirements. More information on accessible tourism in Australia is available on the Smart Traveller website.
Banks are typically open from 9:30am to 4pm Monday to Thursday and 9:30am to 5pm on Friday. Most banks will be closed on the weekend; however, some branches may stay open for several hours on Saturday mornings.
Post offices
Post offices are usually open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. Several branches will also remain open on Saturday mornings.
Shop opening hours differ between states and territories in Australia. Large supermarkets in New South Wales , Victoria , the Northern Territory , Australian Capital Territory and Tasmania are typically open from 7am to 10pm seven days a week, while inner-city supermarket chains will often stay open from 6am to midnight every day. In South Australia and Western Australia , supermarkets are generally open from 7am to 9pm Monday to Friday and 11am to 5pm on Sundays. In Queensland , you can typically shop in supermarkets from 7am to 9pm Monday to Saturday and 9am to 6pm on Sundays. Be aware, timings will change across the country on public holidays .
What clothes you pack will depend on where you visit and when. Whilst the climate varies, Australia is generally pleasant, even in winter. You’ll certainly need a swimsuit and a hat, and it’s a good idea to pack versatile layers, like a light jacket and jeans, so you can add or remove layers depending on the day. Make sure you check the weather while preparing your packing list.
You will need a valid passport to enter Australia. All travellers also need a valid visa , with the exception of New Zealand passport holders.
You may need an adapter in order to plug your appliances into the power sockets in Australia: the adapter required for Australia is Type 1 Australia plug. The plugs in Australia have two flat metal pins, forming an inverted ‘V’ shape, and occasionally a third pin in the centre. The electrical current in Australia is 220-240 volts, AC 50Hz.
Mobile data is available in most places in Australia – though you might not be able to access a signal in the outback. Your mobile plan may charge steep international roaming fees, so we recommend, if your phone is unlocked, that you pick up a prepaid Australian SIM card when you land, allowing you to make calls and access data at local prices.
Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafés and restaurants.
There are strict regulations for customs, biosecurity and declaring your goods when entering Australia. For information on Australia’s biosecurity and border controls, visitors should seek the most up-to-date information please visit Australia's biosecurity and border controls | Smartraveller.
If there's any place to fly a drone, it's Australia. There's nothing like capturing our wildlife, landscapes and lifestyle from above. Travellers are welcome to fly drones here as long as operators follow the Australian rules and restrictions. Read our official drone rules before you take off.
A trip to Australia can cost a little or a lot – depending on your travel preferences and your budget . In general, Australia is an affordable destination relative to other western countries.
In Australia, we use Australian dollars – not to be confused with US, Hong Kong or any other dollars. XE Currency Converter will help you convert your own currency at the market exchange rates.
Currency exchange is available at banks, hotels and international airports. Cirrus-compatible ATMs are everywhere, banks line most main streets, and credit cards are widely accepted. Keep in mind, there’s an AUD$10,000 limit for bringing cash into the country (if you bring more, you’ll have to declare it at the border).
Check with your credit card company to see if they charge foreign transaction fees. Consider getting one that doesn’t. Either way, let them know you’re on holiday, so they don’t suspect fraud.
A good tip is to carry multiple credit cards and a little cash. Merchants may impose credit card surcharges in some places.
Credit cards such as American Express, Bankcard, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa, UnionPay and JCB are accepted in Australia. VISA or MasterCard can be used everywhere credit cards are accepted. American Express and Diners Club are accepted at major supermarkets, department store chains and tourist destinations.
Traveller's cheques are not widely accepted in Australia. If you do purchase traveller’s cheques, it is best to buy them in Australian dollars as smaller shops, restaurants and other businesses are unlikely to know what the exchange rate is if you present a cheque in a different currency such as US dollars or British pounds.
Australian goods and services include a tax (that’s included in prices). Travellers may be able to refund the tax they pay on goods and services bought in Australia through the Tourist Refund Scheme . You do so at the airport upon your departure.
Hotels and restaurants do not add service charges to your bill, and tipping is always your choice. In most venues tipping is not expected, though in upmarket restaurants, it is common to tip waiters 10 per cent of the bill for good service.
Australia is a very safe country to visit (even if you travel alone). Be sure to follow the health and safety advice , including water safety , wherever you go.
More articles like this
![Uluru Aboriginal Tours, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, NT © Tourism Australia Uluru Aboriginal Tours, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, NT © Tourism Australia](https://www.australia.com/content/australia/en/facts-and-planning/beginners-guide-to-australia/_jcr_content/imagePortrait.adapt.584.HIGH.jpg)
We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. Find out more . By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies.
Acknowledgement of Country
![tourism for australia Indigenous symbol - Natural Beauty](https://www.australia.com/etc.clientlibs/common/clientlibs/resources/images/Indigenous/naturalBeauty-01.png)
We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.
- New Zealand (English)
- United States (English)
- Canada (English)
- United Kingdom (English)
- India (English)
- Malaysia (English)
- Singapore (English)
- Indonesia (Bahasa Indonesia)
- Deutschland (Deutsch)
- France (Français)
- Italia (Italiano)
- 中国大陆 (简体中文)
*Product Disclaimer: Tourism Australia is not the owner, operator, advertiser or promoter of the listed products and services. Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable. Rates are indicative based on the minimum and maximum available prices of products and services. Please visit the operator’s website for further information. All prices quoted are in Australian dollars (AUD). Tourism Australia makes no representations whatsoever about any other websites which you may access through its websites such as australia.com. Some websites which are linked to the Tourism Australia website are independent from Tourism Australia and are not under the control of Tourism Australia. Tourism Australia does not endorse or accept any responsibility for the use of websites which are owned or operated by third parties and makes no representation or warranty in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of any services, nor does it endorse or in any respect warrant any products or services by virtue of any information, material or content linked from or to this site.
End of P&O: Why is Australia such a tough market for the cruise ship industry?
- 2 hours ago
- The Conversation
By Freya Higgins-Desbiolles for The Conversation
Miami-based cruise operator Carnival Corporation has announced it will retire its P&O Cruises Australia brand in March 2025.
The decision marks the end of the line for an iconic cruise brand in Australia and the Pacific, after nearly a century of operations.
Parent company Carnival has been on a campaign of international growth through acquisitions and mergers since at least 1989. P&O Cruises Australia was bought by the company in 2003.
Many Australians might remember the brand’s iconic television advertisements from the 1980s and ‘90s that encouraged them to escape the rat race.
More from Newshub
But the reality of cruising’s international consolidation leaves little room for such nostalgia and national brand attachment.
Still, cruising is a big part of Australia’s tourism sector, and cruises are a large source of inbound visitors. The Australian Cruise Association estimates the industry’s total economic contribution is as high as A$5.63 billion.
Australians are hungry for cruise ship experiences. They make up the fourth largest source market for passengers, at 1.25 million last year.
Australia is a tough place to make a profit
A recent report by Cruise Lines International Association painted a picture of a thriving industry. New, bigger ships are being rolled out to meet a growing market of both new and loyal cruise enthusiasts.
So why are operators struggling here? P&O hasn’t been the only brand facing difficulties down under.
P&O’s sister line Cunard recently announced it will stop basing itself in Australia from 2026, and Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady has cancelled plans for a second sailing season here next summer.
Carnival said its decision on P&O Australia came down to the region’s “significantly higher operating and regulatory costs” and small population. The company said it had been forced to change its operating approach to achieve “efficiencies”.
The cruise sector was hit hard by the pandemic. In early 2020, Carnival reported a staggering single quarter net loss of US$4.4 billion . The company also suffered reputational damage following a high-profile COVID outbreak on its Ruby Princess cruise ship.
The international cruise market is heavily concentrated. Almost 80% of the passenger market is shared by three big companies: Carnival, Royal Caribbean International and Norwegian cruise lines.
Australia’s high operating costs and relatively small market make it tough for big cruise companies to achieve the profitability they expect. Carnival’s Cunard Line attributed its decision to move out of Melbourne to a 15% hike in port fees.
As these companies have sought to strengthen their competitive advantage, acquiring smaller players has been a popular strategy.
This mass tourism model can deliver relatively cheap holidays for passengers. But it often also sacrifices well-loved smaller cruise operations that are more connected to local histories and cultures.
There is also the tyranny of distance for Australia, and increasing geopolitical risks affecting cruising.
The Australasian region faces stiff competition as a cruise destination from alternatives such as the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, which are close to large markets. Virgin Voyages said its cancellation of the 2024–25 sailing schedule was due to major safety concerns in the Red Sea.
What does its future hold?
Reassuringly, customers with P&O bookings for the remainder of 2024 will not be affected. Next year, the brand’s Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure ships will continue to sail, but under new branding for Carnival Cruise Line. Pacific Explorer will be retired from service.
In Australia, the mass tourism model of the big cruise operators is no doubt here to stay. But there could be further cuts to the range of destination ports offered as the industry prioritises profits.
In the longer term, however, a crucial question concerns the future of ports around Australia that have been enticed into engaging with the cruise industry. Many government tourism authorities have been keen to expand the sector.
As a result, access to some smaller ports has been negotiated and there has been a push to build new facilities in New South Wales, the biggest market.
This has received pushback from some parts of the community who argue the economic benefits don’t outweigh the cultural and ecological cost.
In the future, there could be a more sustainable solution for Australian cruising in smaller expedition-like formats. These have been particularly successful in locations such as the Kimberley in Western Australia.
Local communities at small-ship destinations may find this model of cruising more acceptable, given its lower passenger numbers and smaller environmental impact.
Freya Higgins-Desbiolles is an Adjunct Senior Lecturer in Tourism Management/ Adjunct Associate Professor, University of South Australia.
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here .
![tourism for australia tourism for australia](https://www.newshub.co.nz/common/clientlibs/assets/newshub/imgs/other/newshub.seo.logo.png)
![Tourism Australia Staff Conference, December 2022 © Tourism Australia Tourism Australia Staff Conference, December 2022 © Tourism Australia](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/about/our-organisation/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Our Organisation
![Goat Island, Sydney Harbour, New South Wales © Destination NSW Goat Island, Sydney Harbour, New South Wales © Destination NSW](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/about/careers/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Our Careers
![Kangaroo at Crowdy Bay National Park, New South Wales © Tourism Australia Kangaroo at Crowdy Bay National Park, New South Wales © Tourism Australia](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/contact-us/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Tourism Statistics
![Balloons and arboretum, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © VisitCanberra Balloons and arboretum, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © VisitCanberra](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/insights/markets/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Industry Resources
![Arkaba Walk, Flinders Ranges, SA. Arkaba Walk, Flinders Ranges, SA.](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/resources/resources-for-media/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Media Resources
![Sydney, New South Wales © Tourism Australia Sydney, New South Wales © Tourism Australia](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/resources/campaign-resources/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Travel Trade Hub
![Cape to Cape Track, Margaret River, WA © Tourism Western Australia Cape to Cape Track, Margaret River, WA © Tourism Western Australia](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/news-and-events/news-stories/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
News Stories
![Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay, New South Wales © Destination NSW Murrays Beach, Jervis Bay, New South Wales © Destination NSW](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/news-and-events/newsletters/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Newsletters
![Destination Australia Conference 2020 © Tourism Australia Destination Australia Conference 2020 © Tourism Australia](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/news-and-events/industry-events/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Industry Events
![Dreamtime 2017, Brisbane, Queensland © Tourism Australia, Remco Jansen Dreamtime 2017, Brisbane, Queensland © Tourism Australia, Remco Jansen](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/news-and-events/business-events-australia/jcr:content/image.adapt.800.HIGH.jpg)
Business Events
![Tourism Australia Staff Conference, December 2022 © Tourism Australia Tourism Australia Staff Conference, December 2022 © Tourism Australia](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/about/our-organisation/_jcr_content/hero/mobile.adapt.768.high.jpg)
OUR ORGANISATION
Link Copied!
![Hill Inlet, Whitsunday Islands, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland Hill Inlet, Whitsunday Islands, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/about/our-organisation/our-vision/_jcr_content/image.adapt.740.medium.jpg)
Our Management
![Parliament House, Canberra, ACT © Tourism Australia Parliament House, Canberra, ACT © Tourism Australia](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/about/our-organisation/our-performance-and-reporting/_jcr_content/image.adapt.740.medium.jpg)
Our Performance and Reporting
![Fitzroy Island Resort, Fitzroy Island, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland Fitzroy Island Resort, Fitzroy Island, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/about/our-organisation/our-board/_jcr_content/image.adapt.740.medium.jpg)
Our History
![Sal Salis, Ningaloo, Western Australia © Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef Sal Salis, Ningaloo, Western Australia © Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/about/our-organisation/sustainable-tourism-statement/_jcr_content/image.adapt.740.medium.jpg)
Sustainable tourism
![Culture Connect guide pointing as family listen in background, Tropical North Queensland © Tourism Australia Culture Connect guide pointing as family listen in background, Tropical North Queensland © Tourism Australia](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/resources/industry-resources/resources-for-industry/aboriginal-torres-strait-islander-tourism/_jcr_content/image.adapt.740.medium.jpg)
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Tourism
![Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, Dampier Peninsula, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm, Dampier Peninsula, Western Australia © Tourism Western Australia](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/corporate/en/about/our-organisation/_jcr_content/mainParsys/banner_copy/image/mainImageDesktop.adapt.1920.high.jpg)
Reimagining the Visitor Economy
Reimagining the visitor economy is a whole-of-government and industry long-term strategy to chart a course for the long-term growth of australia’s visitor economy after the impacts of covid-19..
We use cookies on this site to enhance your user experience. Find out more .
By clicking any link on this page you are giving your consent for us to set cookies.
Acknowledgement of Country
![tourism for australia Indigenous symbol - Natural Beauty](https://www.tourism.australia.com/etc.clientlibs/common/clientlibs/resources/images/Indigenous/naturalBeauty-01.png)
We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian continent, and recognise their custodianship of culture and Country for over 60,000 years.
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is presented in good faith and on the basis that Tourism Australia, nor their agents or employees, are liable (whether by reason of error, omission, negligence, lack of care or otherwise) to any person for any damage or loss whatsoever which has occurred or may occur in relation to that person taking or not taking (as the case may be) action in respect of any statement, information or advice given in this website. Tourism Australia wishes to advise people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent that this website may contain images of persons now deceased.
![tourism for australia Information Publication Scheme logo](https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/dam/digital/corporate/images/information-publication-scheme-ips-logo.png)
Corruption watchdog called in to investigate Tourism Australia travel expenses scandal
The National Anti-Corruption Commission has been asked to investigate revelations three Tourism Australia staff charged taxpayers $137,441 for personal travel expenses.
The staff have since been sacked from the agency, which is responsible for promoting Australia's tourism industry abroad.
Appearing before a Senate committee in Canberra, Tourism Australia chief executive Phillipa Harrison said the spending had been uncovered in October 2023 when the agency's own staff detected the misuse of funds.
The incident was referred to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) for further investigation on January 21 this year.
"The three employees undertook personal travel that was booked through Tourism Australia's corporate travel agent, and was invoiced to Tourism Australia," she told the committee.
"Tourism Australia demanded that the three individuals repay the full amount of the travel, and that full amount was $137,441, and that was fully repaid to Tourism Australia in December 2023."
Ms Harrison was reluctant to go into further detail about the incident, saying Tourism Australia was awaiting a response from the NACC about the situation.
New South Wales Nationals senator Ross Cadell wanted more information about who the sacked staff were, and used his questions in the committee to ask whether the agency's chief financial officer was among those involved.
"The NACC has advised me that I'm unable to provide the further details on the roles and the people involved until they have finished their investigations," Ms Harrison responded.
"To do so may compromise current or potential investigations, and prematurely impact the reputations of individuals in circumstances.
"The legislation enacted by parliament intends to avoid that by requiring that investigations, generally, be conducted in private and that information concerning them is not to be disclosed."
No details provided on destinations of travel, yet
Ms Harrison did commit to providing Senator Cadell with details on how many trips were booked by the staff, and the destinations for the travel.
"I am shooketh by not being able to ask these questions," Senator Cadell quipped.
The committee hearing was briefly suspended to allow senators to discuss the concerns about Tourism Australia staff not answering questions.
Tourism and Trade Minister Don Farrell said Ms Harrison would make a public interest immunity claim to outline the situation.
"I have to say, this is the first time in my experience where a direction from the NACC has directed an official not to make a public statement," he said.
"This does present some significant issues which I myself would like to get clarified.
"You and I both voted for this legislation and obviously this is how it's being applied. The witness, obviously, has to comply with the direction of the NACC, she has no choice."
Ms Harrison said Senator Farrell's office had been made aware of the situation in late 2023.
The matter has not been referred to authorities.
- X (formerly Twitter)
- Federal Government
- Government and Politics
- Newsletters
- Investigations
- Environment
Want some assistance?
Contact us on: [email protected]
‘She has no choice’: NACC called in to investigate Tourism Australia after holiday expenses scandal
After Crikey revealed three staff went on private holidays using $137k of taxpayer funds, Tourism Australia has now confirmed the NACC is involved.
Anton Nilsson
Jun 05, 2024
![tourism for australia Tourism Australia logo and advertising (Images: Tourism Australia)](https://www.crikey.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Untitled-1.png?quality=70&w=740&h=400&crop=1)
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has been asked to investigate the $137,441 travel expense scandal at Tourism Australia, first revealed by Crikey in April .
Managing director Phillipa Harrison claimed immunity from questions about the scandal at Senate estimates late Tuesday night, saying she had been advised by the NACC not to divulge too many details “until they have finished their investigations”.
“Their advice was very, very clear to us that they did not want me to disclose any other information because to do so may compromise current or potential investigations and prematurely impact the reputation of individuals,” Harrison said, appearing to be reading from written advice.
![tourism for australia](https://www.crikey.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Screenshot-2024-06-04-19.29.14.png?quality=70&w=953)
According to information previously made available to Crikey, the scandal involved a senior Tourism Australia employee and two of their China-based colleagues who were fired last year for blowing taxpayer money on personal holiday trips.
Crikey asked Tourism Australia on April 17 whether the matter had been referred to the NACC, and, if so, when, but the agency refused to confirm.
“All reporting obligations were complied with within an appropriate time frame,” was the answer given at the time.
Crikey had also contacted the NACC for comment, and a spokesperson replied that the commission was unable to comment on the existence of an investigation.
The Australian Federal Police told Crikey on April 19 it was “not aware of this matter”.
At estimates, Harrison revealed the NACC had been contacted on January 25. She also said Tourism Australia had engaged the consultancy firm Deloitte to “carry out a thorough forensic audit stretching back to 2021”.
“No further instances of wrongdoing were identified,” she said.
Trade Minister Don Farrell told the hearing the immunity claim based on NACC advice was a “first” at a budget estimates session.
“I have to say this is the first time in my experience where a direction from the NACC has directed an official not to make a public statement,” Farrell said.
Addressing Nationals Senator Ross Cadell, who was asking questions about the scandal, Farrell went on: “This does present some significant issues which I myself would like to get clarified. You and I both voted for this legislation and obviously this is how it’s being applied.
“The witness obviously has to comply, I believe, with the direction of the NACC. She has no choice.”
The minister went on to say he would seek to get “more information on what the government’s responsibilities, and the department’s responsibilities” are in instances where NACC advice would prevent the Senate from asking questions.
While Harrison refused to divulge the identities of the three people fired, she did appear to inadvertently confirm parts of Crikey’s previous reporting. In response to a question from Cadell about who the corporate travel provider was that the three employees had used to book their holiday trips, Harrison let slip a comment that seemed to confirm the incident was related to Tourism Australia’s China office.
“[The travel provider] is FCM in China… and also here in Sydney,” Harrison said.
Asked by Cadell if any law enforcement organisations in China had been made aware of the incident, Harrison said: “I’m not saying that it was a China issue necessarily.”
Pressed further, she conceded no international authorities had been contacted about the incident.
Do you know more? Contact Anton Nilsson securely on Signal via the username anilsson.33 — download the app, create a new chat via the pencil symbol and type the exact username into the search bar to get in touch. Or send him an email at [email protected] . Anonymity guaranteed.
About the Author
![tourism for australia Anton Nilsson — Politics Reporter](https://www.crikey.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/PXL_20221007_001937138_2-copy.jpg?quality=70&w=140&h=140&crop=1)
Politics Reporter @antonknilsson
Anton Nilsson is Crikey's federal political reporter. He previously covered NSW Parliament for NCA NewsWire, and before that, worked for Sweden's Expressen newspaper as well as other publications in Sweden, Australia and the United States.
- Tourism Australia
Crikey is committed to hosting lively discussions. Help us keep the conversation useful, interesting and welcoming . We aim to publish comments quickly in the interest of promoting robust conversation, but we’re a small team and we deploy filters to protect against legal risk. Occasionally your comment may be held up while we review, but we’re working as fast as we can to keep the conversation rolling.
The Crikey comment section is members-only content. Please subscribe to leave a comment.
The Crikey comment section is members-only content. Please login to leave a comment.
Interesting that big 4 corrupt rip off merchant Deloittes have been invited to the trough. I thought we were trying to ease up on dealing with big 4 crooks. Was I a bit naive, again?
I don’t recall any decision not to avoid them, just a bit of frowning and tut-tutting for a few days, except for PwC after the bad smell from its ATO tax dodging frolic. And we already know the government’s willing to let bygones by bygones with PwC too. Because it was all so long ago, and nobody wants to carry grudges, and lessons have been learned…
That’s the main thing: lessons are always learned. The biggest lesson is that there are never any consequences for the real villains, even if the occasional scapegoat is sacrificed.
Really good get, Crikey. Well done to all.
And herein lies the problem with a secret squirrel NACC. We’ll never know if this matter is investigated or not.
Makes you wonder if Dreyfus’ legislation to keep NACC referrals or investigations quiet is because neither Labor nor Liberal govts want the rest of us to see or know what’s going on because they know it would undermine confidence In govt generally, regardless of which was in govt. It also protects each party from the other so there’s no finger-pointing by whichever is in Opposition
This goes beyond the issue of not holding public hearings. Now we see the NACC is now being used as a tool to suppress any revelations about a matter of serious public interest. It is therefore protecting and facilitating corrupt conduct. This will surely not be the only time. Way to go, our Lib/Lab/Nat masters and all their mates!
No pollie will rock the boat SSR, when they could be the next one in the firing line.
It is just me but does TOURISM AUSTRALIA MANAGING DIRECTOR PHILLIPA HARRISON bear a resemblance to her less than illustrious predecessor SCOMO? Or maybe it’s both appearance and demeanor?
How can I join in these incredible rorts? I thought it was pretty special that Woolies gave me a $15 gift voucher for complaining to them about one of their home-brand products.
Send to their inbox
Share this with friends.
Carnival Corp to fold P&O Cruises Australia brand into Carnival Cruise Line
![tourism for australia](https://www.usatoday.com/gcdn/presto/2022/07/06/USAT/812613b9-57d6-4d59-92a2-fa549cc62552-Diller_Nathan.jpg?crop=179,179,x0,y0&width=48&height=48&format=pjpg&auto=webp)
Carnival Corp. will fold P&O Cruises Australia into Carnival Cruise Line next year.
- Other Carnival Corp. brands include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Seabourn.
- The change does not affect Carnival Corp.’s England-based P&O Cruises, which is a separate brand.
The cruise line operator will retire the P&O Cruises Australia brand in March 2025, the company announced Monday.
"Despite increasing Carnival Cruise Line's capacity by almost 25% since 2019 including transferring three ships from Costa Cruises, guest demand remains incredibly strong so we're leveraging our scale in an even more meaningful way by absorbing an entire brand into the world's most popular cruise line," Carnival Corp. CEO Josh Weinstein said in a news release .
Other Carnival Corp. brands include Holland America Line , Princess Cruises and Seabourn.
Carnival Cruise Line will constitute around 35% of the company’s worldwide capacity when the transition is finished, up from 29% in 2019. P&O’s Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure ships will sail for Carnival following a rebrand, while Pacific Explorer will leave the fleet in February.
"P&O Cruises Australia is a storied brand with an amazing team, and we are extremely proud of everything we have accomplished together in Australia and the broader region," Weinstein continued. "However, given the strategic reality of the South Pacific's small population and significantly higher operating and regulatory costs, we're adjusting our approach to give us the efficiencies we need to continue delivering an incredible cruise experience year-round to our guests in the region.”
A spokesperson for the company told USA TODAY the integration "will unfortunately result in some staffing reductions, and we are notifying employees," though they did not share specific numbers. "We also expect to have most members of the P&O Australia shipboard team redeployed to work for Carnival Cruise Line or our six other cruise lines operating in the region," the spokesperson said in an emailed statement.
Following the change, Carnival will have four ships sailing in the market, including Carnival Splendor and Carnival Luminosa. The company said guests will be contacted “in the coming days” about any changes to future cruises because of the consolidation. Current itineraries will sail as scheduled.
Cruise booking tips: There's more to it than picking your travel dates
"We look forward to building on the history and heritage of P&O Cruises Australia by bringing some of our innovations to more cruise guests in the region," Carnival Cruise Line president Christine Duffy added in the release. "While we plan to make some technology upgrades and other small changes to the two P&O Cruises Australia ships, they will continue to be geared to the unique Australian market with a familiar feel and much of the same experiences for P&O Cruises Australia guests.”
The change does not affect Carnival Corp.’s England-based P&O Cruises, which is a separate brand. The company also recently announced that Carnival Cruise Line will add two new Excel-class ships in 2027 and 2028.
Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].
![](http://britannia.fun/777/templates/cheerup/res/banner1.gif)
IMAGES
VIDEO
COMMENTS
*Product Disclaimer: Tourism Australia is not the owner, operator, advertiser or promoter of the listed products and services.Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable.
*Product Disclaimer: Tourism Australia is not the owner, operator, advertiser or promoter of the listed products and services.Information on listed products and services, including Covid-safe accreditations, are provided by the third-party operator on their website or as published on Australian Tourism Data Warehouse where applicable.
Tourism Australia does not endorse or accept any responsibility for the use of websites which are owned or operated by third parties and makes no representation or warranty in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of any services, nor does it endorse or in any respect warrant any products or services by virtue of any ...
6. The Great Barrier Reef is vulnerable - but it's not "dead". The Great Barrier Reef - arguably Australia's most iconic attraction - made headlines in 2016, when reports claimed it was "dead" following coral bleaching events. There's no question that climate change has had an adverse effect on the Great Barrier Reef.
9. Feel ancient Australia in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory. Kakadu is the perfect kind of middle of nowhere. It's the wild Australia that you might have already daydreamed about. Waterfalls bloom from rock, prehistoric crocodiles thrash the wetlands, lorikeets sing, and Aboriginal guides bring ancient rock art to life.
Australia & Pacific. Australia is the unexpected: a place where the world's oldest cultures share vast ochre plains, stylish laneways and unimaginably blue waters with successive waves of new arrivals from across the globe. Best Time to Visit. Best Places to Visit. 01 / Attractions.
Tourism in Australia is an important part of the Australian economy, and comprises domestic and international visitors. Australia is the fortieth most visited country in the world according to the World Tourism Organization. In the financial year 2018/19, ...
Tourism Australia is the Australian Government agency responsible for promoting Australian locations as business and leisure travel destinations. The agency is a corporate portfolio agency of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and employs 198 staff (including 80 staff at overseas offices).
Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Australia's Northern Territory; 11. Great Ocean Road, Victoria Great Ocean Road . Great Ocean Road is one of the world's top scenic drives. Built to provide employment during the Depression, the road stretches for 300 kilometers along Australia's rugged southeast coast, winding along plunging sea cliffs.
Travel to Australia can require some long flights — especially if you're visiting from the Northern Hemisphere. A week to 10 days is the minimum recommended time to visit Australia, as distances are vast, and jet lag can take a couple of days to pass. Note that if you're planning to see the highlights of both the east coast and the west coast ...
Tourism Australia produces a range of industry, media and special interest newsletters. Keep up to date and subscribe to the newsletters you would like to receive via email. Subscribe now Acknowledgement of Country. We acknowledge the Traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Owners of the land, sea and waters of the Australian ...
Here at Tourism Australia, we're on a mission to show you why Australia is the most desirable & memorable destination on earth! Australia is truly one of the most unique, diverse and welcoming ...
Tourism. Plan your trip with australia.com, the official Tourism Australia website, offering a wide range of travel information and planning tools including over 2000 images, a currency converter, daily weather updates, interactive maps, suggested holiday itineraries, holiday deals, specialist travel agents and more. Available in nine languages.
The report forecasts a positive outlook for the visitor economy. In the next 5 years, we predict both international and domestic tourism will continue to grow. We expect: international travel to Australia will exceed its pre-pandemic level in 2025. international spend in Australia will exceed its pre-pandemic level in 2024.
This huge red monolith is a World Heritage site, and one of Australia's most emblematic landmarks. Uluru is literally the heart of Australia, and the ochre soil is as dramatic as the massive sandstone rock itself. You can cycle, walk, ride a camel or take a helicopter around the nearly 10-kilometre (6.2-mile) circumference, then dine under the stars on a sand dune - your meal featuring ...
Tourism Australia produces a range of industry, media and special interest newsletters. Keep up to date and subscribe to the newsletters you would like to receive via email. Subscribe now Discover more Insights. The economic importance of tourism. Insights. Understanding Tourism Statistics ...
3. Sydney, New South Wales. Australia's best city for outdoor activities. Sydney is rightfully considered one of the world's most beautiful cities, where the natural splendor of cityside beaches collides with incredible urban architecture, including the Opera House.
This edition of 'Spotlight on the Regions' features Malaysia with Business Development Manager of Malaysia, Karen Saw. Explore Tourism Australia's campaigns, including There's Nothing Like Australia, our global consumer marketing campaign, highlighting some of the very best attractions and experiences Australian tourism has to offer.
View the latest report on Australian tourism's economic value. Tourism Research Australia (TRA) is Australia's leading provider of quality tourism intelligence across both international and domestic markets, providing statistics and research to assist the government, the visitor economy and Australian businesses.
Inbound tourism: the road to recovery. International visitor numbers to Australia continued to close the gap on the pre-pandemic high of 8.6 million witnessed in 2019, coming in at over five ...
Brand g Vacations, an operator of luxury all LGBT+ cruises and land tours, has announced a new itinerary to Australia from February 16 to March 3, 2025. Australia's natural environment ...
Enter now for your chance to win a 12-night trip to Queensland, Australia to explore Bluey's world for real life. See the Bluey's world prize itinerary. Important! Entrants must be at least 18 years of age to enter. One entry per person. Entries close 5:00pm AEST 30 June 2024. Please read the full T&Cs before entering for prize dates and details.
Australia is a country for all seasons! Visit at any time of year to find incredible experiences that will guarantee lasting memories. Some considerations when choosing the best time to visit Australia include the destination you want to explore, weather and events. Summer (November to February) is the peak season for travel, thanks to school holidays and the draw of our incredible beaches.
Still, cruising is a big part of Australia's tourism sector, and cruises are a large source of inbound visitors. The Australian Cruise Association estimates the industry's total economic ...
Tourism Australia is the Australian Government agency responsible for attracting international visitors to Australia, both for leisure and business events. The organisation is active in 15 key markets and activities include advertising, PR and media programs, trade shows and industry programs, consumer promotions, online communications and ...
The National Anti-Corruption Commission has been asked to investigate revelations three Tourism Australia staff charged taxpayers $137,441 for personal travel expenses. The staff have since been ...
The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has been asked to investigate the $137,441 travel expense scandal at Tourism Australia, first revealed by Crikey in April. Managing director Phillipa ...
The SS Strathaird operated cruises in Australia for P&O in the 1930s. Yet Carnival Corporation commands almost 60 per cent of the cruise market here, and has 19 ships operating in the region, so ...
The cruise line operator will retire the P&O Cruises Australia brand in March 2025, the company announced Monday. "Despite increasing Carnival Cruise Line's capacity by almost 25% since 2019 ...