Published on Wednesday, 4 February 2026 at 11:47:54 AM
Tourism Growth Forecasts and New WA Visitor Data Highlight Opportunities for Nannup
The Shire of Nannup has welcomed new national tourism forecasts alongside the latest Western Australian visitor data, both of which point to continued growth in visitor demand and strong opportunities for local operators.
According to Tourism Research Australia's Tourism Forecasts for Australia 2025–2030, total visitor spending in Australia is projected to rise from $191.6 billion in 2025 to $233 billion by 2030. The report also highlights significant growth in domestic day trips and steady increases in overnight travel nationwide.
Western Australia’s visitor performance reflects these national trends. Tourism Research Australia has released the first full 12 months of visitor data following the introduction of the new Domestic Tourism Statistics (DoTS). For the year ending September 2025, compared with the same period to September 2024:
- Intrastate overnight visitors reached 8,696,000, up 0.5%.
- Interstate overnight visitors totalled 1,202,000, up 11.6%.
- International overnight visitors reached 991,000, up 16.8%.
Overall, Western Australia recorded 10.9 million overnight visitors, representing a 3.0% increase. Total visitor nights rose to 73.6 million, an increase of 9.9%, driven mainly by longer interstate and international stays. Intrastate nights declined slightly as Western Australians took shorter trips.
International visitor numbers continue to recover and are approaching pre-COVID levels. The increase in interstate and international visitors particularly benefits Perth, while the decline in intrastate nights is expected to be more concentrated in regional WA.
Shire of Nannup Chief Executive Officer, David Taylor, said the combined data strongly supports the Shire’s strategic priorities.
“Nannup is well positioned to take advantage of these emerging tourism trends. The rise in nature-based, trail-focused and wellness travel aligns directly with our investment in trail development, local business support and community-led activation. These insights reinforce that our direction is the right one for strengthening our local economy.”
Mr Taylor said the data highlights several opportunity areas for local businesses:
- Trail-based tourism such as mountain biking, hiking and gravel cycling.
- Day-trip experiences including markets, farm tours, creative workshops and short nature activities.
- Eco-friendly, boutique and unique accommodation options.
- Agritourism, local produce ventures and seasonal food experiences.
- Events and festivals that convert day-trip visitation into overnight stays.
“The Shire will continue to work closely with operators to ensure they are supported and well placed to grow,” Mr Taylor said. “As visitor expectations evolve, our community’s strengths—nature, creativity, authenticity and connection—remain our greatest asset.”
This work aligns closely with the Shire of Nannup Community Strategic Plan 2021–2036, which prioritises a thriving visitor economy and sustainable tourism growth.
Read the full report by clicking on the link Tourism forecasts for Australia 2025 to 2030
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