A Message from the Visitor Economy Team

Hi All,

Welcome to the next edition of the Adelaide Economic Development Agency's (AEDA) City Tourism newsletter. 
 
October is already shaping up to be an exciting month.

The Visitor Economy Team has welcomed the first cruise ship of the season, the Crown Princess. Excitement is building around some new retail initiatives and, as always, the dedicated visitor servicing volunteers are ready to welcome tourists to the city. 
 
I am also looking forward to the next AEDA Visitor Economy Industry Forum in a few weeks where city tourism operators, industry leaders and stakeholders can hear the latest city data and insights.

I also congratulate all the city-based operators nominated in the SA Tourism Awards on 7 November 2025. City operators are delivering top-notch experiences and upholding the CBD and North Adelaide as must-visit destinations. Good luck to all nominees.

While AEDA's remit focuses on the city and North Adelaide, it remains mindful of the challenges facing neighbouring coastal councils and beyond. As recovery and support programs unfold to support affected regions, AEDA will back efforts that bring renewed tourism confidence and increased visitation across the state. 

The AEDA Visitor Economy Team is always here to support your business—please don’t hesitate to get in touch for guidance and assistance.

Thank you,
Gemma Nelson
AEDA Visitor Economy Team

Register Now for the AEDA Visitor Economy Industry Forum 

Join AEDA at the Pullman Adelaide for its next Visitor Economy Industry Forum on Tuesday, 18 November 2025. Connect with peers, gain insights into the sector and hear from top operators about their plans to enhance the city experience. Speakers include Adam Stanford and Erik De Roos from the South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC), Kate Gould from the Adelaide Festival Centre and AEDA's Jordon Tomopoulos.

Cruising into South Australia

Waves of tourists are set to anchor in Adelaide until May 2026, as the state's cruise season sets sail. Tourism operators are encouraged to take advantage of extra visitors coming to the city by offering tailored deals or unique experiences for cruise passengers.

Small Business Support

The state government's Office for Small and Family Business delivers tailored information, tools and programs to help businesses start, operate, grow and overcome challenges. Current support topics span across algal bloom, sustainability, mental health, women in business and energy efficiency.

Experience Adelaide: What's On in the City

From festivals to live music, exhibitions and sport—Adelaide's spring and summer calendar is jam-packed with events popular with locals and tourists alike. Ensure you and your customers are at the heart of the fun and frivolity by discovering the exciting line-up of events coming to the CBD and North Adelaide over the next six weeks.

New Tourism Products

Ten city-based visitor economy operators have launched a suite of new experiences and products as part of the AEDA Tourism Accelerator Program. The program, run by AEDA in partnership with specialist organisation Tourism Accelerator, encouraged businesses to create bookable experiences that elevate the city experience.

Join the AEDA Board

AEDA is currently recruiting for a new Board Member to fill a casual vacancy until 30 June 2027. Led by AEDA Chair Steve Maras, the skills-based board helps set the strategic direction of AEDA and considers initiatives to drive the Adelaide economy. Applications close on 26 October 2025.

'Tis the Season to Open Longer, fa-la-la-la-la, la-la-la-la

Tourism operators can apply to extend their trading hours when the National Pharmacies Christmas Pageant comes to town on Saturday, 8 November. Leverage the surge in city visitors brought in by the southern hemisphere’s largest street parade by curating exclusive seasonal offerings and memorable experiences.

ATE26: Applications Open

Seller applications for the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE26) are now open. The event, expected to bring together 1,500 Australian seller delegates with 700 global distribution partners from more than 30 countries, will be held in Adelaide next year. 

Register Christmas Events

Embrace the festive season by listing your Christmas events and activations with the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW). By registering, AEDA and SATC can promote your offerings, maximising visibility and audience reach.

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