The Council of Australian
Tour Operators (CATO) has
released its annual Australians on Holiday Report with 2024 availed data
revealing a resilient and maturing recovery in outbound leisure travel. The
report highlights Australians’ growing preference for structured,
experience-rich holidays — with touring continuing to play a central role in
shaping travel choices.
Drawing on a combination of
Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data, independent consumer research, and
benchmarking insights derived from CATO’s accreditation program, the report
presents a comprehensive view of Australia's outbound leisure travel landscape.
In 2024, more than 6.9 million Australians travelled
overseas for holiday purposes — a 21% year-on-year increase. While growth was
recorded across all regions, Asia emerged as the standout, welcoming nearly 4
million Australian holidaymakers. Travel to North-East Asia, including Japan
and South Korea, surged by an impressive 73%.
Brett Jardine, Managing Director of the Council of Australian Tour
Operators (CATO), said as leisure travel continues to dominate the outbound
market, touring’s safety, structure, and immersive qualities continue to
resonate within the overall data.
“We’re seeing more
Australians value the depth and convenience that touring offers — particularly
in complex or culturally rich destinations. Whether it’s a traditional coach
journey, a small or private group or a luxury rail journey, the appetite is
strong and growing,” Jardine said.
Key findings from the
report:
- · Asia attracted 3.97 million Australian holidaymakers in
2024, with significant
year-on-year growth in:
- North-East Asia (+73%)
- South-East Asia (+25%)
- South and Central Asia (+31%)
- Holidays under 14 days make up the
bulk of outbound travel, with 7–14 day trips growing by 27% and trips
under 7 days duration surging 31% over 2023.
- Passenger numbers in land-based
multi-day tours rose by 48%, despite a dip in average spend. The total sector
spend now exceeds $5 billion
- Tour operators report strong
momentum in small group, active, and luxury touring, particularly
among the 50+ market and adventure-driven travellers under 40.
- Benchmarking data derived from
CATO’s independent financial analysis of members shows 1.7 million
Australians travelled with CATO Members in 2024, close to 1 in 4 of
all outbound holidaymakers.
Jardine also highlighted
the launch of CATO’s Touring Academy in 2024, the growing recognition
and value attributed to the CATO Accreditation program, and upcoming
initiatives including the launch of the CATO Summit, reinforce touring’s
position as a premium, enriching and safe travel option.
With international holiday
travel nearing pre-pandemic levels, the Australians Abroad 2024 Report
confirms that the touring sector remains a cornerstone of outbound travel's
growth and evolution.
See further details here
