NAB merchant data shows spending in two Tassie tourist towns up more than 100 per cent

Visitors are digging into their pocket to splurge the cash this summer, according to new data. Where tourists are spending up big in Tassie >>

The Great Eastern Drive heading toward Swansea. Picture: EAST COAST REGIONAL TOURISM

Two Tasmanian tourism towns are soaking up a summer spending surge according to new data investigating spending habits in tourism hot spots.

New NAB merchant terminal data shows average spending across key tourism sectors from Saturday 21 December to Sunday 5 January 2025 was up by more than 130 per cent compared to normal.

Spending on accommodation in Tasmanian seaside village Swansea was up a whopping 130 per cent.

Spending at St Helens service stations was up 127 per cent on average.

NAB Business Direct and Small Business Executive Krissie Jones said the summer tourism spending injection provided a welcome boost for local businesses across the country as people hit the road for the holidays.

She said the data pointed to the continued popularity of holidaying at home.

“The population of holiday hotspots swells over summer and booked out accommodation, busy eateries, long lines for takeaway coffee or petrol and even difficulty finding a park on the main street are all welcome signs for businesses in these places.

“The data also points to the continued popularity of holidaying at home as Australians make thoughtful spending decisions to manage the higher cost of living and avoid a recent dip in overseas exchange rates,” Ms Jones said.