More than 2000 travel and tourism industry leaders from around the globe are converging on Melbourne for Australia’s largest annual travel industry business to business event, the Australian Tourism Exchange.
Last night, Minister for Tourism and Major Events, John Eren, hosted the sector’s most influential business leaders at a welcome function ahead of the week-long showcase event at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
More than 700 buyers from countries around the globe will join a large contingent of travelling international media at the ATE, where they’ll connect with more than 1200 representatives from 500 Australian companies and tourism organisations.
Victoria’s wildlife sanctuaries, the accommodation sector, our walking tours and wineries will all contribute to the forum and pitch to the world’s buyers.
The ATE is our State’s opportunity to influence the biggest players on the global tourism stage and showcase our strengths to the world.
It’s the first time Victoria has hosted the event in six years and we are playing a greater role than ever – there are a record 74 Victorian exhibitors competing, 23 for the first time.
Tourism is worth nearly $20 billion to the state’s economy every year, employing 206,000 people. It sits behind only education as our state’s greatest services export – and it’s growing. The ATE provides the industry new and invaluable opportunities to meet with leading international tourism buyers and secure new partnerships.
Buyers and the media will embark on tours throughout regional Victoria after the ATE conference, visiting renowned hotspots like the Grampians, the Yarra Valley, Phillip Island and the Great Ocean Road.
The ATE begins on Monday and finishes on Friday.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism and Major Events, John Eren
“The ATE is our opportunity to impress the biggest players in the global tourism industry and showcase our strengths to the world.”
“Thousands of buyers, industry experts and members of the media are converging on Melbourne and regional Victoria, keeping our bars and cafes busy and our hotels and taxis full.”
“It’s great to see more Victorian exhibitors than ever. We lead the way when it comes to tourism, and the ATE will only further strengthen our impressive industry, driving jobs and growth.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020