Adelaide has spent the week at the centre of Australia’s tourism industry, hosting the 46th Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE26) at the Adelaide Convention Centre.
The event, organised by Tourism Australia has brought together more than 2,700 delegates, including around 730 international buyers and travel sellers from 32 countries.
Over four days, Australian tourism operators, hotels, airlines, destinations and experience providers have participated in more than 55,000 scheduled business appointments aimed at driving future international visitation to Australia.
ATE26 has also provided South Australia with the opportunity to showcase its tourism credentials to global buyers and media. Delegates have been experiencing familiarisation programs across destinations including the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Kangaroo Island and the Flinders Ranges.
South Australia has used the event to highlight its premium food and wine experiences, luxury accommodation, nature-based tourism and major events capabilities.
Tourism Australia Managing Director Phillipa Harrison said the exchange remained one of the country’s most important tourism business events.
“ATE is where the global tourism industry comes together to build future business for Australia,” she said.
“The opportunity to showcase Australia directly to international buyers and decision-makers is incredibly valuable for our tourism operators and destinations.”
Several states have also used the event to promote new tourism developments and experiences. Destination NSW confirmed a record delegation of operators attended ATE26, while other states promoted new aviation routes, luxury tourism offerings and regional experiences.
ATE26 concludes on Thursday evening with the traditional “Last Shout” networking function at Festival Plaza, bringing to a close one of the most significant tourism industry gatherings on the Australian calendar.