Nationals Member for Cowper, Luke Hartsuyker, said figures from an International Visitor Survey showed 344,000 international travellers experienced tourism sites and activities on the North Coast, spending $228 million in the year to September 2017.

“More tourists are visiting the North Coast and are spending more – which contributes to our job creation and boosts the local economy,” Mr Hartsuyker said.

“I’m pleased to see the North Coast’s tourism attractions continue to be popular with overseas travellers, it shows marketing in the region has breakthrough with international visitors, which is great for local tourism operators.”

Tourism Research Australia’s survey shows international visitors grew by 9 per cent and spending increased by 16 per cent from the previous year, with visitors increasing by 27 per cent and spending increasing by 36 per cent over a three year period.

“Tourism is one of Australia’s main industries and is responsible for a large portion of the country’s economic growth, that’s why the Turnbull Coalition Government continues to invest in growing this key sector,” Mr Hartsuyker said. 

“The IVS also revealed spending by Chinese tourists has reached a new record in Australia - exceeding $10 billion for the first time.

“The record spending occurred during the China-Australia Year of Tourism, initiated by the Turnbull Coalition Government as we work to maximise the potential of China – Australia’s fastest growing and most valuable inbound tourism market - to create new Australian jobs.”

The International Visitor Survey is available on the Tourism Research Australia website: www.tra.gov.au