The table compares the number of Australians who travelled to the seven most famous destinations between 1999 and 2009, as well as their growth rate over the period.
Overall, China remained the least represented nation before showing a significant upward trend while the UK and Japan rose moderately. In addition, the United States remained relatively stable during the period.
In 1999, New Zealand contributed the largest group of tourists, at around 500,700 people, followed by the US and the UK, at precisely 400,000 and 300,000 respectively. By contrast, China recorded the smallest number, at just under 100,000 visitors, but made up for the fastest growth rate, at 249%. Indonesia welcomed 150,000, accounting for 127% of the growth rate whereas Fiji received 120,000 individuals, with just 114%.
Over the next decade, the number of New Zealand experienced a further increase, surpassing 1 million by 2009, making it roughly double its initial level. The US increased steadily to around 400,000, displaying a minor change from its starting figure. By contrast, China grew dramatically, soaring to 300,000 with a 249%. Similarly, Japan jumped from 100,000 to 250,000 people with a growth rate was 150%. Notably, the UK and Indonesia increased gradually, at 640,000 and 340,000 in 2009 respectively.