Latest data shows NSW is No.1 for winter tourism in Australia

NSW has claimed victory over Queensland in the winter tourism stakes, with the Premier State emerging as the most popular domestic destination for Australian holiday-makers.

Beautiful one day, beaten by NSW the next.

In a State of Origin tourism takedown, the Premier State is outstripping Queensland as the most popular domestic destination for Australian holiday makers this winter.

According to latest research from the Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF), 28 per cent of Aussies with getaway plans from June to August will travel to or within NSW.

Next in line is Queensland with 26 per cent, followed by Victoria (21 per cent) and Western Australia (8 per cent).

Sydney is also the most popular city destination nationwide, ahead of Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth.

Early morning swimmers and surfers brave the winter cold at Bondi Beach. Picture: Max Mason-Hubers

But in a sign that cost-of-living pressures are still impacting households, the number of Aussies planning holidays is down almost 10 per cent on last winter, with 68 per cent planning to travel during the cooler months, compared to 74 per cent in 2024.

“Travel has long been a key priority for Australians, and that continues to hold true this winter,” said TTF CEO Margy Osmond.

Sydney at sunrise. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

“Two thirds of the nation are still planning a trip, whether it’s exploring their own backyards or heading overseas.

“However, these holidays we’ve seen a noticeable drop in Aussies choosing to spend their break travelling.

“This suggests that while the desire to explore is still strong, cost-of-living pressures and economic uncertainty may be influencing how and when Australians choose to take a break.”

Ski destinations are set to buck that trend with Booking.com reporting that Jindabyne and Thredbo are showing increases of at least 30 per cent in online searches compared to the same time last year.

The TTF data, drawn from a survey of more than 1500 Australians, shows only 11 per cent of holiday-makers are planning to head overseas, and 40 per cent of travellers intend to spend $2000 or less.

A further 39 per cent will restrict their holiday budget to between $2000 and $5000.

“Australians still deeply value their holidays, but with rising costs a key concern, now is the ideal time for airlines and operators to step up with affordable deals that keep travel both accessible and top of mind,” Ms Osmond said.

Cost-of-living crunch or not, Aussies are flocking to the snow at places like Thredbo Ski Resort. Picture: Supplied

The 25 to 34-year-old demographic is the most willing to travel this winter, with 78 per cent planning a trip.

The age group is also the biggest spenders, with 10 per cent budgeting between $10,000 and $20,000-plus on holiday plans.

But it is the 34 to 44-year-olds who are more likely to head offshore. with 14 per cent jet setting internationally. Ms Osmond said they were “making the most of the longer winter school break”.