Image Source: whitsundayswedding.com.au

Despite the strong Aussie dollar, the wedding business is thriving in Australia’s North, with many overseas couples choosing to have their wedding in North Queensland.

Recent figures revealed a 30 percent increase in the number of non Queenslanders getting married in the Sunshine State during the last five years, the Herald Sun reported.

According to recent Births, Deaths and Marriages statistics a total of 2640 weddings were from domestic and international tourists last year.

Tourism Minister Jan Jarrett said the healthy increase in people getting married in Australia’s North would greatly benefit the Australian economy.

“The average cost of a wedding is up to AUD50,000 and most couples bring an average of 50 guests with them who will turn up for the ceremony come rain, hail or global uncertainty, so it is an important market," Ms Jarrett said.

"With destination weddings the spend is more too because couples and their wedding guests factor in a week or so worth of accommodation, transfers, food and tourist experiences.

"This way guests don't have to travel a long way just for a day out and they can have a fabulous Queensland holiday in some incredible locations as well as enjoy the wedding."

The Sunshine State receives the biggest share of international honeymooners in Australia, with 48,000 international honeymooners, mainly from Japan and Korea, in the year to last September.

The market is set to continue to grow as Tourism Australia and Tourism Queensland have plans to promote Australia’s north through joint initiatives with overseas wedding magazines and the launch of a wedding and honeymoon website next Month.