Tourism
Tourists flock to South Australia each year, attracted by the State’s wine regions, rugged outback, unspoilt coastline and the beautiful city of Adelaide.
The State is emerging as a leading international tourist destination, particularly in eco-tourism. Its tourism industry now turns over about $4.3 billion a year and employs 50,000 people in communities across the State.
South Australia is famous for its world-class wine, food, historical and cultural attractions and iconic nature experiences. These include swimming with sea lions, whale watching, exploring the World Heritage-listed Naracoorte Caves, cruising the unspoilt waterways of the Murray River and the Coorong, and visiting the pristine Kangaroo Island.
The State is also the stage for many international festivals and sporting events, including the Tour Down Under that alone attracts more than 36,000 interstate and international visitors and contributes about $39 million to the State’s economy each year.
Other renowned events include the Adelaide Festival of Arts, WOMADelaide international music festival, Fringe Festival, Clipsal 500 V8 Supercar Race and International Rugby Sevens Adelaide.
Adelaide has been rated as the best city in Australia for business travel and third-best in the world. The award-winning Adelaide Convention Centre has been voted one of the world’s top conference and meeting venues.
Opportunities exist for investors looking to contribute to South Australia’s reputation as a tourist destination among new and growth markets including China, Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, India, New Zealand and the UK.
Case studies
Kangaroo Island SeaLink Pty Ltd
Key links
South Australia - A brilliant blend
South Australian Tourism Commission
Tourism Australia
South Australian Tourism Industry Council
Adelaide Convention Tourism Authority
Australian Federation of Travel Agents
Australian Hotels Association (SA Branch)
Australian Tourism Export Council
Caravan Parks Association of SA Inc
Ecotourism Australia
Houseboat Hirers’ Association Inc
SA Bed & Breakfast Town & Country Association
