Chinese Tourism to Australia Predicted to Decline in 2026
Chinese tourism to Australia is expected to face challenges in 2026 as the nation’s economic stability influences travel behavior. Recent statistics indicate that while arrivals are on the rise, they remain below pre-pandemic levels.
Current State of Chinese Tourism to Australia
The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported over 1 million arrivals from China in the year ending November 2025. This marks a 16% increase compared to previous figures. However, this number falls short of the pre-pandemic peak of over 1.4 million arrivals recorded in 2019.
Chinese visitors spent $9.2 billion in Australia over the same period, making China the largest source of inbound tourism spending. In contrast, the 2019 spending reached $12.4 billion, highlighting the gap in recovery.
Factors Influencing Travel Trends
- Broader economic pressures: Economic growth in China slowed to 4.5% in the fourth quarter of 2025.
- Preference for short-haul travel: Many Chinese travelers are opting for closer destinations instead of Australia.
- Domestic travel promotion: The Chinese government is actively encouraging spending within the country.
Professor Huang Songshan from Edith Cowan University emphasizes that economic conditions significantly affect travel decisions. If household wealth appears compromised, families may reduce long-distance trips.
Future Projections for Chinese Tourism
Despite current challenges, Tourism Australia remains optimistic about the market’s potential. The organization predicts that China will experience one of the highest growth rates in Australian tourism, with an annual increase of 7.3% from 2025 to 2030.
Key Events Driving Interest
- January and February attract significant tourist numbers due to the Australian Open and China’s Lunar New Year.
- Promotional activities, like the presence of famous stars such as Jay Chou at events, enhance interest in visiting Australia.
The Australian Open in 2025 benefitted from high-profile attendees and events, generating considerable media attention and enthusiasm among Chinese tourists.
Challenges Ahead
The recovery of Chinese tourism to Australia is slower than anticipated. According to Professor Huang, priorities within China, such as enhancing domestic travel, are directing resources and spending away from international trips.
Despite these barriers, Tourism Australia’s marketing campaigns aim to sustain interest and encourage Chinese visitors. The organization launched the “Come and Say G’day” campaign, which aligns with ongoing efforts to restore travel demand.
As the tourism landscape continues to evolve, it will be crucial for stakeholders to address and adapt to these changing dynamics.
