Australian Open 2016 provided record economic benefits to Victoria according to a new report.
The Grand Slam injected $278.1 million into the state’s economy – up from $245.5 million in 2014 and almost a 70 per cent increase on 2008. The tournament generated 1109 jobs for Victoria.
“These numbers prove that our ongoing focus on in-bound tourism, particularly in the Asia Pacific region, is paying dividends and contributing incredible economic benefits to Melbourne and Victoria,” Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley said.
Of the record breaking 720,363 attendees, 48 per cent were from beyond Melbourne, with a break-down of:
Nine per cent from regional Victoria
26 per cent from interstate
13 per cent from overseas.
Visitors stayed an average 5.11 nights in the city’s hotel rooms and spent an average of $181 per day. Three-quarters of all visitors surveyed said that they would happily recommend others to visit Victoria as a result of their stay.
More than 98 per cent of all Victorian residents surveyed said that it is either very important or important for Victoria to host the Australian Open each year.
Tennis Australia CEO and Australian Open Tournament Director Craig Tiley credited Victorians for the success of the 2016 tournament.
“Australian Open 2016 smashed all of the records. Another incredible summer of tennis is shaping up. More than ever all of Victoria is embracing this event. Full credit to tennis fans for continually making this such a great way to kick off the annual sporting calendar and also to the Victorian Government for its foresight and planning.”
Acting Minister for Tourism and Major Events Philip Dalidakis said, “This is exactly why cities around the globe dream of hosting world-class events like a tennis grand slam.
“Visitors from all over the world make their way to Victoria to see for themselves why we are the sporting capital. It brings opportunities for our visitor economy and more jobs for Victorians.”
Key economic benefits:
$278.1 million Real GSP generated (indirect economic impact)
1,109 Full time equivalent jobs generated
More than 98 per cent of Victorian residents surveyed say it is either very important or important for Victoria to host the Australian Open each year (91.7 per cent say “Very Important”; 6.5 per cent say “Important”).
Tourism fast facts:
61 per cent of attendees were from Victoria with 26 per cent from interstate and 13 per cent from overseas
513,882 hotel room nights, with an average stay of 11 nights per visitor
75 per cent of domestic and international visitors who were surveyed would happily recommend others to visit the state
Average daily spend per person was $181
7 per cent of all overseas and interstate visitors said that their overall experience positively changed their perception of Victoria.
Attendance figures
Australian Open 2016 attracted a record crowd of 720,363 people smashing the previous record of 703,899 set in 2015
A record 15,543 people attended the fourth annual Kids’ Tennis Day. The Rod Laver Arena Spectacular saw Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Victoria Azarenka, Caroline Wozniacki, Milos Raonic and Lleyton Hewitt on centre court
The inaugural Australian Open Festival at Birrarung Marr served up a taste of Grand Slam action and excitement right in the heart of Melbourne with 250,374 attendees during the two weeks
Kids’ World at the Australian Open Festival was visited by 30,788 parents and children.
About the study
Tennis Australia commissions independent economic impact studies every two years
The 2016 study was undertaken by Repucom and Centre of Policy Studies
The 2014 tournament was worth $245.5 million to the state
The 2012 tournament was worth $239 million
The 2008 tournament was worth $163.3 million.