Cunard has announced that the Queen Mary 2 will be based in Australia in 2012.
The 'Royal Circumnavigation' is expected to generate $10m for the Australian economy.
Carnival Australia CEO, Ann Sherry, said the decision was a sign of confidence in the Australian cruise market.
"This one decision will generate at least $10 million for the Australian economy as the local cruise industry remains on track to contribute more than $3 billion and carry one million Australians annually by 2020,'' she said.
Cunard president and managing director Peter Shanks said he expected strong demand for the voyage from Australian and international markets.
The mammoth voyage that will see her visit ports in five states and the Northern Territory, will be the longest time the liner has away from Southampton.
Fremantle, Adelaide and Sydney will each see two visits.
