Ipswich’s tourism sector has marked a new high, with data from Tourism Research Australia revealing a surge in visitor numbers from 2023 to 2024.
The report shows overnight visitors to Ipswich increased by 11.4 percent, while day trips jumped by 18.1 percent, making tourism a growing economic force in the city.
Ipswich City Council’s Economic and Cultural Development Committee Chairperson, Councillor Pye Augustine, attributed this upswing to Ipswich’s diverse attractions and community events.
“Tourism is a vital and booming contributor to our $13 billion economy,” Cr Augustine said.
“This year, visitor spending has reached the highest level ever, with $396 million contributed to Ipswich by tourists alone.”
The data, reflecting Ipswich’s strongest tourism performance since before COVID-19, highlights the city’s appeal to both new and returning visitors.
“People are realising just how much Ipswich has to offer, from stunning rural landscapes to world-class libraries, art galleries, and popular school holiday events,” Cr Augustine said.
Despite domestic overnight visits still trailing pre-pandemic levels, the average length of stays has increased to 2.7 nights, indicating that tourists are spending more time in the city.
Councillor Augustine said the council’s latest Ipswich Hotels Investment Prospectus seeks to attract hotel developments, supporting a long-term vision to boost overnight visitation.
“More hotels would mean more options for visitors, encouraging them to stay longer and explore everything Ipswich has to offer,” she said.
Compared to pre-COVID-19, day trips are now up by 10 percent and only 5 percent below Ipswich’s highest record. Cr Augustine believes these results stem from local attractions and the city’s appeal as a family-friendly destination.
“Ipswich is the place to be, with something for all ages, from the Queensland Museum Rail Workshops and Ipswich Nature Centre to Spicers Hidden Vale and our beautiful nature reserves,” she said.
The city anticipates even stronger visitor numbers next year with popular events like the CMC Rocks Queensland Country Music Festival, Supercars, Queensland Netball State Age Championships, and a full lineup of Ipswich festivals on the calendar.
For more on what Ipswich has to offer, potential visitors can explore Discover Ipswich.
