# New South Wales visitor economy trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/new-south-wales-visitor-economy-trends
> Updated: 2026-10-19T22:00:38.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

New South Wales is experiencing significant economic activity driven by its visitor economy. In late 2026, the state projected a boost of over $100 million for October, fueled by a diverse schedule of sporting, cultural, and entertainment events. These included the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, the Bathurst 1000, and various musical performances.

This activity follows a period of high expenditure in the culinary sector. Data from 2025 indicated that New South Wales led Australia in food tourism, with domestic and international culinary visitors contributing more than $12 billion to the state economy. International culinary tourism specifically saw a 21 per cent rise in expenditure, with visitors showing a strong preference for local food markets and fine dining.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-19: New South Wales leads Australia in food tourism spending

New South Wales leads Australia in food tourism, with domestic and international visitors spending over $12 billion on culinary experiences in 2025.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-south-wales-leads-australia-in-food-tourism-spending

### 2026-09-28: New South Wales events projected to generate $100 million

Major sporting and cultural events in New South Wales this October, including the Rugby League World Cup, are expected to contribute over $100 million to the state's visitor economy.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-south-wales-events-projected-to-generate-100-million

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Cite as: New South Wales visitor economy trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/new-south-wales-visitor-economy-trends