International arrivals to Australia rose by 9.6% in September, with strong growth across all visitor categories, according to peak national body, Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF).
TTF director, aviation policy, Justin Wastnage said arrivals rose from most key markets.
"After falling in July and August, arrivals from New Zealand have rebounded strongly, increasing by 16.8% this September compared with 2011," Wastnage said.
Arrivals from China grew 26.5%, US arrivals jumped 13.1% and arrivals from Japan lifted 6.6%.
Wastnage said the figures were "a strong demonstration of the contribution the tourism industry can make to the national economy".
"Tourists spend AUD260 million every day, supporting the direct and indirect employment of more than 900,000 Australians – four times more than the mining sector.
"Each Australian household would pay AUD500 more in tax each year without the contribution from the tourism industry," he added.
