A quarter of Australians are planning to turn April’s public holiday sweet spot into a “super break,” according to new data from the NRMA, delivering a potential shot in the arm for domestic tourism operators still recovering from Cyclone Alfred.
With Easter Monday (21 April) and ANZAC Day (25 April) bookending a three-day working week, 26% of respondents in a new NRMA survey say they’re taking time off to stretch out their holidays. The timing also coincides with the autumn school holidays, giving families even more reason to plan a longer escape.
According to the survey of over 1,000 NRMA members across NSW, 64% of those taking a break intend to travel, with most opting to stay within Australia:
• 54% staying in their home state
• 27% travelling interstate
• 18% heading overseas
Of those holidaying locally, 77% plan to hit the road, confirming the enduring popularity of road trips in Australian travel culture.
Photograph: Dee Kramer.
Cyclone-hit regions brace for a tourism rebound
The data also points to green shoots for domestic travel following recent setbacks, particularly in south-east Queensland and northern NSW, areas still recovering from Cyclone Alfred. NRMA Parks & Resorts, which operates over 60 destinations, is seeing a late rush of bookings, especially across impacted areas like the North Coast of NSW.
“There’s still some availability at a few of our parks, but it’s very limited,” said NRMA Parks & Resorts CEO Paul Davies. “We’re strongly encouraging families to consider a road trip to these regions, local businesses and tourist spots are more than ready to welcome guests back.”
Locations such as Darlington, Treasure Island, and Ocean Beach are among those with some remaining availability, with Davies noting a surge in interest for destinations like the South Coast and even Tasmania.
Economic optimism also driving demand
Interestingly, 13% of respondents said the Reserve Bank’s February rate cut was a factor in their decision to take a break this April, suggesting that economic sentiment is influencing travel plans.
With Australians keen to reset after a hectic start to 2025, Davies says April presents a rare alignment of school holidays and public leave opportunities that families are eager to maximise.
NRMA members are also being incentivised to travel, with discounts, flexible booking terms, and perks through the My NRMA Rewards program, including memberships starting from just $5 a month.