Ministerial media releases for the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport

NSW has recorded its highest-ever visitor expenditure, with domestic and international travellers spending $53.2 billion across the state—up 3.6 per cent year on year—according to new data from Tourism Research Australia for the year ending December 2024.

The Biennale of Sydney, one of the world’s leading international contemporary art events, will return to White Bay Power Station for its milestone 25 th edition from 14 March – 14 June 2026. 

The fight to bring back Sydney’s nightlife will enter a new chapter with Burwood and Fairfield committing to establish NSW’s next Special Entertainment Precincts (SEP).

Some of NSW‘s greatest sporting heroes and events have been recognised as part of 16 new blue plaques, spotlighting remarkable stories that have shaped our state’s rich history.

The NSW visitor economy triumphed at the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, with eight NSW businesses recognised across nine categories—including Balloon Aloft Australia, which took home double Gold.

A new generation of harness drivers will be able to learn their craft with the official opening of a new multi-million-dollar training centre at Bathurst Harness Racing Club.

Maud Page has been appointed the tenth Director of the Art Gallery of NSW, ushering in a new era of leadership for the 154-year-old institution.

Shooting organisations across NSW have shared in almost $800,000 in funding after grants were awarded under the NSW Government’s Safe Shooting Program.

The Minns Labor Government and Surfing Australia are today announcing the return of the world’s largest surfing event for women, ‘Seas The Day’, to be held at Kingscliff Beach from 21-22 June 2025.

Fourteen iconic events from Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras to the TCS Sydney Marathon and Tamworth’s Country Music Festival, will benefit from less red tape in recognition of their importance to our state’s identity.