Fresh research reveals half (51%) of Aussies will travel domestically this year to experience Australia’s rich local culture following the announcement of Wotif’s 2024 Aussie Town of the Year.
Renowned for its gold rush legacy, dating back to the 1850s, Bendigo in Victoria claims the top spot in, leading travel app, Wotif’s 2024 Aussie Town of the Year Awards, as 4.5 million Aussies plan on visiting the state this year.
Bendigo also offers spectacular cultural experiences, including the Djaa Djuwima First Nations Art Gallery and the Bendigo Art Gallery, one of Australia’s largest and most innovative regional galleries. Lastly, Bendigo’s exciting cultural and food and beverage scene led to the city being recognised as Australia’s first UNESCO Creative City and Region of Gastronomy.
Swapping classic coastal getaways for inland educational experiences this year’s awards feature a diverse mix of regional towns, reflecting the desire of many to learn more about Australia. Local domestic travellers are most interested in exploring historic sites (89%).
Rounding out the top three destinations are Broken Hill in NSW and Queensland’s Stanthorpe, each providing unique experiences and primed for seven in ten (69%) who plan on travelling domestically in 2024, a 9% increase year-on-year.
Wotif Travel Expert, Sarah King, says, “Aussie travellers are driven by a curiosity to experience the world around them and it’s fantastic to see that pursuit of discovery leading many to find culture close to home.
“As one in five (20%) Aussies are planning a trip during the upcoming Easter long weekend and over half (56%) plan on taking advantage of school holidays for local getaways, these awards provide the ultimate inspiration for those planning their travels for the year ahead.”
2024 Wotif Aussie Town of the Year Award winners:
- Bendigo, VIC
- Broken Hill, NSW
- Stanthorpe, QLD
- Katherine, NT
- Bathurst, NSW
- Tanunda, SA
- Griffith, NSW
- Stanley, TAS
- Exmouth, WA
- Coober Pedy, SA
