Tourism is a major industry on the Northern Rivers. The region boasts some of the best beaches, spectacular walking tracks, top whale watching, snorkeling and fishing, and the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforest. The diversity of our natural environment continues to attract a broad spectrum of tourists.
Convenient location
Located south of the Queensland border, the region has long been a popular destination for South East Queensland day trippers. Sydney is also around an hour by air, attracting both domestic and international overnight visitors.
The Ballina Byron Gateway Airport and the Gold Coast airport both provide convenient access to the region and essential services for travellers visiting the Northern Rivers. Including flights to and from major Australian capital cities and shuttle services to popular locations, car hire services, private transfers and taxis are available from these airports.
Our Visitor Economy
In 2024/25 the total tourism value added in the Northern Rivers was $1543.4 million*. From employment to sales, the industry continues to grow.
The average stay for domestic overnight visitors is 4 nights, with international visitors staying an average of 11 nights.
The tourism industry supports over nine thousand jobs in the Northern Rivers across a range of sectors. Almost two thirds of accommodation and food industry employment is in tourism. The industry also creates employment and revenue in retail and education.
The Northern Rivers, when included with the NSW Mid North Coast is Australia’s third largest tourism region based on domestic overnight stays.
*Source: economyid.com.au/northern-rivers/tourism
NSW Government’s Destination NSW
Support for the local industry is available through the NSW Government’s Destination NSW Network. Destination North Coast NSW supports regional tourism through research, marketing and business development opportunities. Further information on tourism investment opportunities in the Northern Rivers region is available from the Destination North Coast NSW website.
Ready to Invest in the Northern Rivers?
The Northern Rivers is strategically located, fast growing and rich in natural assets including productive soils, a creative and educated population and improving infrastructure connecting the region to Brisbane and Sydney. If you are considering investing in the Tourism Economy on the Northern Rivers, RDA Northern Rivers is here to help you find your pathway into the region.
Explore Tourism Economy Investment Opportunities