Cruise Industry Brings Billions to Australian Economy

Cruise passengers spent $1.82 billion during Australia’s 2024-25 season, with average spending ashore reaching approximately $440 per passenger.

Ship visits generate additional economic activity through spending on fuel, provisions, engineering services, waste management, ground transportation and transfers for passengers and crew.

“Each ship visit benefits an extensive array of local Australian businesses,” Katz said, citing tour operators, travel agents, farmers, restaurants, retailers and transport companies.

Despite the industry’s economic contribution, cruise operators continue to call for more competitive port charges, greater certainty surrounding berth availability and long-term infrastructure planning.

Sydney’s limited availability of cruise berths east of the Harbour Bridge remains a significant issue. The largest cruise ships are unable to pass beneath the bridge to reach White Bay and therefore rely on the Overseas Passenger Terminal, which provides only one cruise berth.