Redland City Bulletin

Experts forecast greater changes for Australia's post-pandemic tourism industry

Experts forecast greater changes for Australia's post-pandemic tourism industry
Experts forecast greater changes for Australia's post-pandemic tourism industry

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As you know, the COVID-19 pandemic has been impacting Australia's tourism industry since mid-2020.

While the development of a vaccine and vaccine passport protocols give hope to the possibility of international travel in the future, and in turn the revival of our tourism industry, experts say 'staycations' are set to be the popular travel trend for 2021-22.

In other words, we can expect to see a boom in local's ticking off local bucket list items.

Whether you've always wanted to rent skis and check out Victoria's snowy mountains, check out yachts for sale in Brisbane and embark on the ultimate fishing trip or simply lace up your hiking boots and explore our National Parks - now is the time.

How is tourism set to change?

According to Regional Australia Institute chief economist Kim Houghton, international tourists injected a whopping $30 billion into the Australian economy and with travel restrictions in place, a multitude of businesses are feeling the sting.

However, Mr Houghton believes the gap can be filled:

"We know that we have about 11 million Aussies going overseas each year, so if some of those are redirected towards domestic tourism, there's certainly a possibility to fill the gap," Mr Houghton said.

With the recent resurgence of COVID-19, it's been a difficult few months for many States and territories. However, Australians took 11.6 million day trips and spent $1.2 billion in June 2021, so it would be fair to assume that once we hit our vaccination targets, there'll be a similar spike in domestic travel or 'staycations'.

What is a staycation?

A staycation is when you spend a holiday in the same state or country where you live.

Some people feel that it's not really a holiday if you don't go anywhere or experience anything new, but for many families, it's about making the most of what they have close to home and giving their children an opportunity to explore.

And with many airlines offering discounted flights, the urge to see more of our great southern land is very tempting.

Australian staycation hot spots

So where should you visit in Australia? The sunny north is naturally a hotspot for their temperate weather and stunning beaches.

Staycations are really about enjoying the simple things. It could be as easy as finally taking a road trip with a loved one down the Great Ocean Road and soaking up the sights.

A staycation is one of the easiest and most affordable ways you can experience some of the greatest Aussie scenery without all the crowds.

Or maybe there's a skill or activity you've always wanted to try? You could finally learn to surf at Bondi Beach.

Prefer the cooler temperatures? No worries, Victoria has plenty to offer in the way of winter entertainment.

Ski resorts in Mount Buller and Falls Creek offer some interesting short break options for you and the whole family. Or if you're feeling adventurous, why not try mountain biking?

Staycations in Australia aren't just limited to couples and singles - there's plenty of opportunities for families as well.

Soak in some culture at Sovereign Hill before taking the family car on the ferry over to Tasmania for some day beautiful hikes up Cradle Mountain.

Celebrate Australia

Even though many Australians are doing it tough at the moment, small freedoms and the ability to enjoy domestic travel is on the horizon.

As you can see, there's plenty of reasons to staycation. For those who are put off by the thought of a lacklustre summer holiday or the prospect of staying in the same place where you live, hopefully you can find some inspiration and awareness about what our stunning landscapes have to offer.