A Message from the Visitor Economy Team

Hi everyone,

Adelaide is officially flying high. Between climbing to 8th in the world in the EIU Global Liveability Index, new aviation records, unprecedented airport passenger traffic, and global recognition as a premier business travel hub, our city’s visitor economy is moving at serious pace.

To help your business stay ahead of the curve, this month we're unpacking our insights on how Visitors Experience Adelaide, key trends in visitor expenditure and where market demand is heading next.

Here is your monthly breakdown.

Best regards,
Gemma Nelson
AEDA Visitor Economy Team

New Insights Shaping Adelaide’s Visitor Economy

AEDA’s latest Q1 2026 visitor research provides valuable insights into how visitors are experiencing Adelaide, what influences their travel decisions and the trends shaping visitation.

Explore the latest findings to better understand visitor behaviour, identify emerging opportunities and stay informed on the factors influencing Adelaide’s visitor economy.

SATC Global Markets Forum

Join the South Australian Tourism Commission Global Markets Industry Forum on Wednesday 23 September for insights from SATC’s global marketing and public relations teams.

Hear directly from the teams working across our global markets, with the latest trends, opportunities and strategies to help you navigate international markets. 

True South: Tourism with Purpose

Discover True South, South Australia’s take on the global Tourism for Good movement. It centres on visitor experiences guided by Aboriginal care for place and community, regenerative principles, accessibility and inclusion, and South Australian hospitality. Tourism businesses and industry participants are invited to register their interest through SATC’s online form.

Visitors Are Driving More Than Tourism

Visitors contribute far beyond traditional tourism measures — supporting hotels, hospitality, events and businesses across the city.

Our latest insights show the significant impact of visitor activity, including $48 million in interstate visitor expenditure in March 2026, alongside strong hotel demand and the broader economic contribution of business events.

Adventure Awards Open

The 2026 Adventure Tourism Awards are now open for nominations, recognising businesses and individuals across Australia and New Zealand delivering innovative, memorable and exceptional visitor experiences.

Nominate now and celebrate the people, businesses and experiences shaping the future of adventure tourism.

Develop Emerging Leaders

Invest in the next generation of business events leaders with ABEA's Leading Well for Emerging Leaders program.

Designed to strengthen leadership capability, the program provides emerging leaders with practical tools, industry insights and strategies to enhance performance, support teams and drive positive outcomes for their organisations.

Register now: SATC Industry Webinar – 3 September

Join the South Australian Tourism Commission’s Executive team to hear the latest updates across our state’s tourism sector.
 
Time: 11am-12pm
Date: Thursday, 3 September 2026

Upcoming Major Events & Festivals

• AGSA Monet to Matisse: Defying Tradition (1 July – 8 November 2026)

• SALA Festival (1 – 31 August 2026)

• Anastasia, the Broadway Musical (2 – 30 August 2026)

• Mould x Pinot Palooza (27 – 30 August 2026)

• Bonython Park Super Carnival (4 – 13 September 2026)

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