Did you know that international online booking platforms now control 85–90% of all accommodation bookings in Australia? These digital giants often charge 10–30% in commission fees per booking—costs that small operators can scarcely afford. For many South Australian tourism businesses, this means up to 55% of their net profits vanish—not into their communities, but straight into the pockets of foreign-owned tech companies.
This is what’s known as economic leakage—when money that could circulate within local economies is instead siphoned off overseas. In South Australia, it’s estimated that between $294 million and $1.295 billion in tourism revenue is lost annually to these international booking platforms.
That’s not just lost revenue. It’s lost jobs, lost reinvestment, and lost potential.
But there’s good news.
The South Australia App: A Local Alternative with Global Potential
After five years of building and testing digital tools that serve local tourism operators—from Robe to the Barossa, the Great Ocean Road to Kangaroo Island—we’re proud to announce that the South Australia App will relaunch in mid-2025 with new, fully integrated booking and sales capabilities.
These updates are the direct result of our pilot platforms—available here—which delivered critical usage and business data. These insights have shaped a market-ready platform built to empower small operators, support direct bookings, and keep more money in South Australia.
Why This Matters
Unlike global OTAs (Online Travel Agencies), the South Australia App is designed by locals, for locals. Here’s how it makes a difference:
- No punishing commissions – fair pricing that protects your margins
- Full control over your listings, promotions, and customer data
- Increased profitability through direct bookings and reduced leakage
- Stronger regional economies as money stays local
- More equitable tourism that supports small and family-run businesses
What’s Next?
As we prepare to relaunch in 2025, we invite all business operators, local councils, and regional businesses to join us in reclaiming control of South Australia’s tourism economy.
💡 The South Australia App isn’t just a platform—it’s a movement. A smarter, fairer, more local way to connect with travellers and grow your business sustainably.