The Northern Territory is experiencing a strong resurgence in tourism, with fresh 2024 data revealing significant growth in powered site occupancy and promising trends across accommodation options. From powered to unpowered sites, the NT is making strides toward solidifying its place as a must-visit destination for travellers seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Cabin Occupancy: Steady Improvement
- December 2024 cabin occupancy in the NT reached 52%, a significant increase from 30% in December 2023, showcasing a remarkable rebound.
- November and October also held steady at 53%, reflecting consistent performance across the months.
- While ADR for cabins in the NT sits at $119, a 26% decrease year-on-year, this could be attributed to efforts to make accommodation more accessible to a wider range of visitors.
The NT’s cabin market is bouncing back with stronger occupancy rates, particularly during peak periods, highlighting its appeal among families, grey nomads, and international visitors.
Powered Sites: A Bright Spot
- Powered site occupancy in the NT improved to 8%, reflecting a 3-point increase compared to last year. Though still modest, this growth indicates an upward trend in demand for powered site accommodations.
- RevPAR for powered sites surged by 20%, reflecting the Territory’s ability to optimize revenue despite challenges.
- With an ADR of $35, NT remains an affordable option for powered site travellers, appealing to budget-conscious visitors and adventurous caravanners.
These gains demonstrate the growing popularity of the NT’s camping and caravanning experiences as visitors seek budget-friendly ways to explore its unique landscapes.
Unpowered Sites: Room for Growth
- Occupancy for unpowered sites rose to 6%, a 1-point increase year-on-year.
- RevPAR growth stood at an impressive 23%, despite the ADR for unpowered sites decreasing slightly to $19.
- The affordability and simplicity of unpowered sites make them an attractive option for adventurers eager to immerse themselves in the NT’s iconic outback.
While the NT’s unpowered site occupancy remains below the national average, its revenue growth signals potential for further improvement with targeted marketing and upgrades.
What’s Driving NT’s Growth?
- World-Class Attractions: With stunning destinations like Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park, and Kings Canyon, the NT offers unmatched natural beauty that continues to attract travellers.
- Efforts to Rebound: Focused strategies to improve affordability and attract diverse visitor segments are paying off.
- Adventure and Culture: The NT’s unique combination of Aboriginal heritage, iconic landscapes, and adventure activities remains a major drawcard.
Looking Ahead
The Northern Territory is steadily climbing the ranks of Australia’s favourite caravan and camping destinations. While challenges remain, particularly in unpowered site occupancy, the consistent growth in RevPAR and powered site performance highlights the NT’s potential for further expansion.
As the Territory continues to invest in its tourism sector, it’s clear that the NT offers an unforgettable experience for travellers seeking rugged adventures, cultural immersion, and stunning scenery. 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year in the NT’s tourism recovery and growth.
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