Industry Profile - Tourism

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© Frank Hurley, National Library of Australia

The tourism industry in Australia started to take shape shortly after Federation in 1905 when the New South Wales State Government had the Intelligence Department establish the State Tourism Bureau to promote New South Wales as a tourist destination. With particular emphasis on domestic tourism, the astounding natural beauty of the country in New South Wales was the initial drawcard, with the Blue Mountains and Jenolan Caves proving popular. The NSW Tourism Bureau's marketing campaigns have become increasingly sophisticated overtime incorporating new media technologies and the internet as successful communication portholes.

Today, tourism accounts for a significant proportion of the New South Wales economy, with 55% of total visitors to Australia visiting New South Wales generating $20 billion for the economy each year. With significant internationally acclaimed major attractions including the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House in its capital city, famed beaches and World Heritage National Parks, New South Wales remains a favourite for visitors from home and abroad.

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