A Message from the Visitor Economy Team

Hi there,

While we remain mindful of the complexities of the current global climate and its impact on international travel, there is much to celebrate closer to home.

We’ve just wrapped up an incredible quarter, with our latest 2025 Q4 Visitor Economy Report (linked below) showing a massive 34 per cent increase in hotel revenue and a record 2.4 million passengers at Adelaide Airport. This momentum, combined with the phenomenal results from the 2026 Adelaide Fringe, proves that our Festival State is stronger than ever.

​On a bittersweet note, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison following the news of her stepping down. We are incredibly grateful for her dedicated service and the immense support she has shown our industry.

​It’s been a busy few weeks on the road! I was delighted to attend the Regional Tourism Managers Forum and Tourism Australia’s (TA) Destination Australia conference in Melbourne. It was inspiring to hear from TA’s new CEO, Robin Mack, regarding the ambitious roadmap to double the value of tourism by 2035.

​Looking ahead, we are only a few weeks away from hosting Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) right here in Adelaide. Alistair and I from the VE team will be reaching out to our distribution-ready partners shortly to discuss how we can leverage our connections to extend your reach during the event.

Best regards,
Gemma Nelson
AEDA Visitor Economy Team

Download Now: AEDA Insights - Visitor Economy Report 

The latest AEDA Visitor Economy Report is here, revealing the impact of major events on the city's visitor economy sector. Dive into fresh, data-driven insights to discover what’s driving these trends and uncover new opportunities to attract more visitors and accelerate business growth.

Events and Festivals Funding

Eligible not‑for‑profit organisations planning medium or major events are invited to apply for AEDA funding to support their next initiative. Applications close 11:00 pm (ACST) on 12 April 2026. 

Local Tourism Winner

The Adelaide Fringe stole the spotlight at the 2025 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, showcasing the city’s world-class events and festivals to interstate counterparts.  

Apply for the Australia Youth Sector ELITE Scholarship 

Applications for the Tourism Australia Youth Sector ELITE Scholarship are now open. Developed by Tourism Australia in partnership with the Backpacker & Youth Tourism Advisory Panel (BYTAP) and the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC), the program is designed to build the skills of tomorrow's leaders in the tourism sector. Applications close 24 April. 

Webinar: Conflict and Chaos

Join Bel Ryan (Ignite Wellbeing Co) for TiCSA’s latest webinar on navigating  communication through conflict and chaos on Tuesday, 14 April 2026. 

Cybersecurity for Tourism 

Discover how to safeguard your business online through the Tourism Industry Council SA (TiCSA)'s Advancing Tourism Business Capabilities Program. 

Get the Best Advice: Drop into the Visitor Information Centre

Adelaide’s new Visitor Centre is on the way, but for now, the city’s Visitor Information Centre at 25 Pirie Street continues to welcome guests. Encourage your visitors to drop in and chat with our friendly volunteers for insider tips, personalised recommendations and local advice to make their Adelaide experience truly unforgettable. 

Promote Your Winter Events

Submit your winter experiences and offers on ATDW to be part of the South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC)’s ' Winter. Our Way' campaign.  

Tourism Research Australia

Explore the latest trends and emerging insights into tourism-based businesses in the Tourism Research Australia's annual report. 

Showcase Your Offering with Trade Travel Partners

Expand your reach and grow your customer base by connecting with domestic and international trade partners through SATC’s Distribution Ready Program. Designed to build practical, real-world skills in tourism distribution, this program will guide you through key concepts such as commission structures, trade-ready pricing, and how to confidently pitch your product. Expressions of interest close at 1:00pm, Sunday 19 April.

Upcoming Major Events & Festivals

• Adelaide Equestrian Festival (16–19 April 2026) 

• Gather Round (9–12 April 2026)

Major Cruise Arrivals

• Crown Princess (27 March 2026)
• Celebrity Edge (16 April 2026)

T 08 8203 7001
E tourism@aedasa.com.au
aedasa.com.au