The latest data from Tourism Research Australia shows that in the year to June 2024*, Brisbane’s tourism industry contributed $12.1 billion to Brisbane’s economy, up 12.3% year-on-year, and supported nearly 80,000 jobs, up 9.5% year-on-year.

The record results reflect the continued momentum of Brisbane’s tourism industry, driven by the city’s growing reputation as a must-visit destination, thriving lifestyle precincts and tourism experiences, packed major events calendar and increasing aviation capacity and direct airline routes.

More than 9.4 million visitors spent 53.7 million nights in Brisbane in the year ending December 2024**.

Key results:

• Total tourism GRP: $12.1 billion, up 12.3% YoY – 4.7% of total Brisbane GRP

• Direct tourism GRP: $6.7 billion, up 12% YoY

• 79,600 jobs supported - 1 in 20 jobs, up 9.5% YoY

• 45,000 direct tourism jobs – 1 in 35 jobs, up 9.2% YoY

Breakdown of tourism visitors:

• 29% interstate
• 26% intrastate
• 27% international
• 17% domestic day trip

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the city’s lifestyle and attractions put Brisbane on the map as a must-visit destination.

“Brisbane’s incredible lifestyle and soaring global reputation is driving a tourism boom, which is boosting our economy and supporting local jobs,” Cr Schrinner said.

“From our iconic lifestyle precincts, such as Howard Smith Wharves, Fish Lane and South Bank, to our packed events calendar, natural attractions and world-class hospitality, Brisbane offers so much to see and do.

“The world is taking notice, as seen with the rush of excitement for Bluey’s World and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which are offering even more reasons to visit our great city.

“Having such a strong tourism sector is also propping-up other aspects of our economy by driving job growth in hospitality, food services, retail, events, and transport.

Brisbane Economic Development Agency CEO, Anthony Ryan said the growth reflects a strategic shift in how Brisbane presents itself to the world.

“Brisbane’s tourism success is no accident, it’s the result of outstanding collaboration, bold ambition and a focus on delivering an exceptional visitor experience,” Mr Ryan said.

“BEDA is proudly supercharging the city’s visitor economy by securing incredible major and business events, supporting new and expanding aviation routes and helping local tourism operators to enhance and promote their experiences.

“Hosting thousands of global tourism buyers and media at the Australian Tourism Exchange last month was a defining moment for Brisbane, putting our city on the world stage and creating opportunities that will be felt for decades.

“The momentum we’re building is extraordinary - and we’re just getting started.”

The data also revealed that cafes, restaurants and takeaway food services account for 25% of direct tourism jobs, followed by retail (18%), accommodation (10%), and sports and recreation (9%). The remaining 38% are spread across sectors such as transport, arts, and education.

Brisbane Airport welcomed 22.6 million passengers in FY23/24 - a 12.5% surge driven by strong growth in both domestic and international travel.

In the past 12 months, Brisbane has welcomed new direct routes including American Airlines to Dallas-Fort Worth, Delta Air Lines to Los Angeles, Jetstar to Bangkok and Qantas to Manila and Palau. Direct flights to Kuala Lumpur with Malaysia Airlines are set to begin from 29 November 2025.

BEDA’s State of the City report forecasts Brisbane’s experience economy will grow by 41% by 2031 in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

 

*Tourism Research Australia regional satellite data for year ending June 2024 (latest available)

 ** Tourism Research Australia data for year ending December 2024 (latest available). Visitors include holiday, business, and visiting friends and family.