New data released today by the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) reveals a robust start to the year for outbound leisure travel, with a record 1.85 million Australians heading overseas for holidays between January and March 2025 – a 15% increase over the same period last year, and a remarkable 54% rise from 2023.
South East Asia continues to dominate, drawing nearly 4 in 10 outbound leisure travellers, with Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam retaining their appeal due to proximity, value, and accessibility. North East Asia also saw a resurgence, with travel to Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan up significantly year-on-year.
CATO Managing Director Brett Jardine highlighted that the results reflect a maturing market:
“Australians are increasingly confident, adventurous and diverse in their destination choices. We’re seeing growth across every age group and every corner of the globe — from family trips in South East Asia to extended stays across Europe and the Americas. This data reflects the hard work of the travel industry and tour operators in delivering compelling, well-supported itineraries Australians trust.”
Youth travel remained strong with the 18–35 age group accounting for the largest share (29%) of international holidaymakers. Older travellers also returned in force, with the 71+ segment growing by 18%, reflecting greater accessibility and confidence among retirees.
While shorter trips (under 14 days) remain popular, there was a notable increase in trips of one month or longer, particularly to Europe and North East Asia — a signal that Australians are seeking deeper, more immersive travel experiences.
“As Australians continue to discover the joy of exploring the world, Australian-based tour operators and wholesalers are well-positioned to support them with safety, structure and unforgettable experiences. The resilience of the outbound market is clear — and it’s only just getting started,” Jardine added.
