Oprah Winfrey's eight-day trip to Australia (accompanied by 300 guests who were in her studio audience when she announced the journey) is costing the Australian government close to $5 million, but according to a CNN report, the investment is expected to pay off in publicity.

Andrew McEvoy, managing director of Tourism Australia, told CNN that the value equivalent in exposure has already made it a smart investment.

"Just before Oprah turned up into our country, the number was $38 million," McEvoy said on Monday. "So that was three or four days ago. I can imagine that to double in the time that she's been here. And I can imagine that to triple."

The eight-day trip began last week and ends with two taped shows at the Sydney Opera House, which has been renamed Oprah House for the occasion.

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