Local economy gets $26 million boost as visitors flock to Penrith

Wednesday, 9 August 2017

More domestic and international tourists than ever before are visiting Penrith and staying for longer to experience the region's world-class attractions and experiences.

More domestic and international tourists than ever before are visiting Penrith and staying for longer to experience the region's world-class attractions and experiences.

New visitor research reveals the number of overnight international visitors in Penrith has increased by 26% and domestic overnight visitors by 52.4% over the 2015/16 period.

The increase in overnight visitation has boosted the local economy by $26.9 million dollars during this period, with international visitors contributing most by staying on average 20.3 days in Penrith.

Penrith Mayor John Thain said these latest survey results confirm that tourism continues to play a vital role in Penrith's local economy.

"Tourism injected $257.9 million into the local economy in the 2015/16 period by employing thousands of local people directly and indirectly and stimulating new infrastructure, development and businesses, "Cr Thain said.

"Council commissioned the Destination Management Plan (DMP) in 2015 and developed a strategic direction for the development, management and marketing of Penrith as a tourism destination.

"Since its launch in 2015, we've been working closely with tourism operators to develop a compelling proposition for visitors and with all levels of government to maximise funding opportunities," Cr Thain said.

"We've had a number of early successes including a dynamic new tourism website, destination marketing campaigns and new major events for the city such as Real Festival, Ballet under the Stars, the NSW Golf Open and the Westfield Matildas vs Brazil football match.

"The DMP was developed to help us achieve our target of doubling visitor numbers to Penrith by 2025. This new research shows our efforts are making a real difference and our ambitious target is not only within sight, it's within reach," Cr Thain said.

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Wednesday, 9 August 2017.