Silly season spend a multi-million boost to SA's tourism industry
South Australia’s tourism industry is in for a $107 million boost this silly season, as people flock to local holiday hot spots.
The latest South Australian Tourism Commission statistics show that for the eight days from Christmas to New Year’s Day at least $107 million will be injected into the state’s economy, giving businesses a huge economic adrenaline shot, at a time when they need it most.
Acting Premier Vickie Chapman says this is great news for local tourism operators, accommodation providers, and regional areas.
“This Christmas is like no other, but for our tourism industry at least, it’s for the right reasons,” Acting Premier Chapman said.
“I am overjoyed to see South Australians spending time with their family and spending money in our great state,” Ms Chapman said.
This comes off the back of a bumper September tourism boom, when South Australia enjoyed its highest domestic visitor spend since going into lockdown in March.
SATC figures show businesses pocketed $230 million in domestic overnight expenditure, with more South Australians holidaying at home, and an increasing number of interstate visitors coming to enjoy what the state has to offer as border controls eased.
SATC Chief Executive Rodney Harrex said regional tourism operators are reporting strong forward bookings for the summer holiday period and are looking forward to that momentum continuing well into 2021.
“I’ve been out in the regions, talking with operators from the Limestone Coast to Eyre Peninsula, who are enjoying the huge number of South Australians opting for a local getaway and the uptick from interstate,” Mr Harrex said.
“Summer is going to be key for the recovery of tourism in SA, and with proven stimulus programs like the second round of Great State vouchers about to launch, as well as events like the Santos Festival of Cycling coming up in January, there are many reasons to book up and spend up in South Australia this summer.”
“I encourage South Australians to look at opportunities on our doorstep, and explore what’s readily available to you here,” Ms Chapman said.
“Stay safe, and celebrate sensibly, but do think about how you can make this festive season memorable with a trip or stay at any of our fantastic holiday locations,” she said.