Home » News » Calls for a third Sydney cruise terminal as experts estimate ’23 season could generate $2b for NSW economy

24 August, 2023

Calls for a third Sydney cruise terminal as experts estimate ’23 season could generate $2b for NSW economy

Sydney, Australia - June 23, 2016: People visiting Circular Quay in Sydney CBD, with view of Harbour Bridge and Opera House

By Zach Havard

The cruise industry could generate up to $2 billion for the NSW economy this summer, but industry experts say the state needs a new cruise terminal to cater for super-sized ships and growing demand.

Prior to the pandemic, the cruise industry reeled in around $3.3 billion each year for the economy from passengers and crew spending money on hotels, restaurants, tours and indirect funds such as ships stocking up on goods from NSW vendors.

Industry experts now believe the estimated 1.1 million cruisers that will visit Australia between October and April could generate over $2 billion for the economy.

The news comes as the Premier of NSW, Chriss Minns, announced he would reign in all remaining COVID restrictions on cruising in NSW.

Margy Osmond, the CEO of Tourism & Transport Forum Australia said she is pleased to see the rules finally scrapped and look forward to leaving the memory of the pandemic behind.

“It’s a crucial step forward to support the tourism sector, which is still facing one of the most competitive global tourism markets ever experienced,” Osmond, said.

“We’re hopeful this will help encourage more cruise passengers to visit our spectacular city, perfectly timed for what’s set to be a bumper cruise season this summer.

“More visitors are essential to help further revive Sydney’s CBD, especially given international tourists have been slower to return than we would have liked.

“This is a great decision not just for cruise fans, but for thousands of Australians whose jobs rely on cruise tourism.

“This will benefit a huge range of local businesses, from restaurants and hotels to retailers, travel agents and tour operators. And the benefits will flow on to suppliers, like transport workers, maritime service providers, food and beverage providers and the list goes on.”

Sydney is currently home to two international cruise terminals, both situated in Sydney Harbour, but Osmond (and many others) feel it is time for a third.

“Now, we also need to look at ways to increase capacity for cruise ships in Sydney Harbour.

“Cruising needs certainty through facilities which have room for growth, beyond Circular Quay and White Bay. It’s time to revisit and explore Garden Island as a real option.”

In May this year, the NSW government announced it would not proceed with a proposed cruise terminal at Yarra Bay in the cities south, a decision welcomed by NSW ports.

Cruising creates around 18,000 jobs for Australian workers, the large majority – around 12,000 – are in NSW and include roles for travel agents, transport workers, farmers, entertainers and tour operators.

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Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

margy osmond Tourism & Transport Forum Australia Yarra Bay Cruise Terminal