SYDNEY, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Nestled away on the southeast tip of Australia, the island State of Tasmania is enjoying a massive surge in visitor numbers.

New figures released on Friday from the Tasmanian Government's Visitor Survey showed tourism on the peaceful, nature-rich island hit an all time high from the year to December 2018.

Not only were visitor numbers up four percent to reach a new record of 1.32 million, but over the same period, total tourism spend in Tasmania also increased five percent to 2.46 billion Australian dollars (1.74 billion U.S.dollars).

"That is two and half billion dollars going into Tasmanian communities, creating jobs and delivering investment," Premier of Tasmania Will Hodgman said.

"It demonstrates exactly why our government has backed our tourism industry and will continue to do so," Hodgman said.

"The increase in expenditure also shows that our plan to focus on premium experiences, and ensuring all parts of our state benefit from tourism, is working," Hodgman said.

Among the most profitable sectors, business travel sector skyrocketed by 21 percent.

But of the 5.78 million nights that were spent on the island, the figures show that 69 percent were spent outside of the capital of Hobart.

"Increases in visitors were recorded in the Southern region, up three percent, Northern region, up three percent, and Cradle Coast, up four percent, on the previous year," Hodgman said.

"While we have seen continued steady visitor growth, the government understands we must protect what is special about our way of life so it can continue to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike," Hodgman said.

"Tourism is one of Tasmania's great competitive strengths, supporting over 38,000 jobs in every corner of the state and is a major reason why our economy is growing so strongly. Now is not the time to put the handbrake on this vital industry," Hodgman added.