Western Australia records 1.024 million international visitors as aviation and events drive recovery

International aviation capacity into Western Australia rose to 131% of 2019 levels, linking the State to 20 global cities via 24 international airlines and underpinning a record 1.024 million overseas visitors in the 12 months to October 2025.

Numbers at a glance

The latest figures from Tourism Research Australia show Western Australia exceeded its pre-pandemic high (996,000) and topped the national recovery curve. Key operational metrics include:

What powered the rebound?

The recovery reflects a multi-pronged strategy. Targeted air route development, major events and refreshed global marketing have all contributed. The principal drivers were:

• Walking On A Dream brand campaigns and the Drive the Dream initiative featuring Daniel Ricciardo, which boosted international awareness and conversion;
• Major live events such as WWE: Crown Jewel en de Bledisloe Cup, which acted as demand multipliers for short-term arrivals;
• Improved international aviation schedules and partnerships, increasing seat capacity and route frequency;
• Stronger cruise itineraries and port calls, reflected in cruise tourism at 160% of pre-COVID levels.

Economic and operational effects

The visitor influx is reflected in tangible economic recovery: more than 120,000 jobs dependent on the visitor economy and some 30,000 tourism and hospitality businesses actively operating across the State. For transport and ground services, higher arrivals translate to increased demand for airport transfers, taxis, private hire vehicles and shuttle services—especially during peak event windows.

Implications for taxi and transfer services

Operators and planners should note these consequences at a glance:

1. Peak pressure on airport pickup zones and curbside management during event periods.
2. Greater need for pre-booked transfers to manage arrival surges and exact pickup times.
3. Opportunity for private-hire and limousine services to capture higher-yield segments (VIPs, groups, business travelers).
4. Seasonal pricing and fare management to balance demand and supply while protecting driver earnings and passenger affordability.

Stakeholder responses and strategic moves

The Cook Government’s tourism investments—spanning aviation incentives, major-event attraction and Aboriginal tourism development—have been acknowledged by local officials. Tourism Minister Reece Whitby highlighted that surpassing national forecasts and exceeding pre-pandemic visitor numbers demonstrates the effectiveness of the State’s export-facing campaigns and trade partnerships.

Operational notes for travel planners

Travel managers and tour operators should consider the following to smooth ground logistics:

• Book transfers in advance for exact arrival and departure times during major events.
• Verify vehicle details and driver credentials to ensure compliance with local licence and safety rules.
• Factor in cruise-ship disembarkation patterns when allocating cars and drivers to port transfers.
• Use platforms that display car make, model and driver ratings to match client expectations.

Greater route connectivity and elevated visitor numbers are important and interesting because they reshape how cities allocate curbside space and how taxi and transfer companies price their services. Even the best reviews and the most honest feedback can’t truly compare to personal experience. On GetTransfer, you can hire a car with driver from verified providers at reasonable prices. This empowers travelers to arrange the exact vehicle—be it a private sedan, seater van or limousine—needed for airport meet-and-greets, city transfers and event logistics. For your next trip, consider the convenience and reliability of GetTransfer. Book GetTransfer.com

In summary, Western Australia’s jump to 1.024 million international visitors reflects a combination of aggressive route recovery (131% of 2019 aviation capacity), targeted global marketing via the Walking On A Dream program, high-profile events and an expanded cruise schedule. For travelers and travel professionals alike, the practical takeaways are clear: secure transfers early, choose verified drivers and vehicles to match group sizes and timing, and monitor fare and seat availability as demand rises. GetTransfer.com supports this landscape by offering transparent listings—showing make, model, driver ratings and prices—so you can book the right taxi or private transfer for your city destination, airport run or special occasion with confidence. Whether you need a cheap cab, a private seater, a chauffeur-driven limousine or clarity on how much a transfer will cost, the platform makes it easy to get the exact service, car and driver you want at a fair price and in good time.