Outback Queensland’s tourism was booming, but will the rising cost of living affect its success?
When international borders shut, Australians were forced to embrace travelling domestically. Many Aussies are frequent flyers and therefore have seen Europe, the United States and Asia before they’ve even seen Perth. So naturally, tourism around the country had to go up when the outside world was closed off. And in Outback QLD, that’s exactly what’s happened.
In fact, Outback Queensland experienced its best tourism season on record in 2022. The influx of tourists did wonders for the towns, bringing in more people and revenue than ever before. However, now with the cost of living on the rise, locals aren’t so hopeful that 2023 will be as successful of a year for their towns. Chief executive of the Outback Queensland Tourism Association, Denise Brown, said “People are still keen to do things, it’s just a matter of they’re just a bit more careful with their money. We don’t anticipate that it will be as huge in volume as it’s been.”
The cruise market is back
Unlimited drinks passes, sunny days, multiple pools and nightly entertainment is a combination most Aussies won’t say no to. Plus it’s all packed in the one location where you can simply walk back to your room at the end of the night. No hefty Uber surcharge necessary! I am of course talking about cruises. The 7 to 10 day long holiday where you’re sailing through the ocean while playing bingo by the pool. Naturally, the cruise industry took an enormous hit and holidays were shut down until COVID was under control. Now that it’s back, coach businesses are down. This is likely due to the cheap rates cruise companies offer for tourists to go on domestic cruises around the country.
There’s still hope for the Outback communities
Flinders Shire Mayor Jane McNamara said that anticipating tourism numbers is a battle. Last year the opinion that fuel prices would limit the numbers was shared. However, she said “I do think that this year with the rising cost-of-living, we will be battling to get those people on the road.”
However, with the amount of RV’s and caravans purchased, there’s still enormous hope that Aussies will be getting out and about in their home country. Now that people own camper trailers and motorhomes, they’re going to want to put them to use!
As much as I think about the lasagne I had in Venice 8 years ago. Or the stunning views I experienced in Hawaii. I see the value in travelling domestically now and I think you should too! If you haven’t yet planned a trip out to our incredible Outback, let this be your sign. Not only will you have some amazing new experiences, but you’ll be supporting the small businesses and local towns that make up our great country.
