Tasmania to Host 2026 ATEC Meeting Place, Boosting Global Tourism and Showcasing Unique Australian Travel Experiences

Published on October 30, 2025

In an exciting development for Tasmania’s tourism sector, the state has secured the opportunity to host the prestigious Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) Meeting Place for the very first time in 2026. The event, one of Australia’s major travel trade gatherings, will take place in Hobart from October 26 to 28, 2026. This announcement was made on October 29, 2025, in Perth, following a successful bid by Tourism Tasmania to bring this important event to the island.

An Event That Brings Tourism Operators and Global Buyers Together

The ATEC Meeting Place is renowned for its role in connecting tourism operators with travel distribution companies that operate in international markets. The event provides an invaluable platform for Australian tourism operators to showcase their products, services, and experiences to a range of global buyers, which is vital for expanding Australia’s reach in international tourism markets. With more than 500 delegates, including approximately 120 travel buyers from key regions such as the USA, UK, Greater China, Singapore, and New Zealand, the event will be a significant driver of global tourism for Tasmania.

The event will feature a variety of business meetings, destination showcases, networking opportunities, and a conferencing program aimed at building and strengthening strategic partnerships. These activities are designed to foster deeper connections and promote tourism growth, ensuring that Tasmania’s tourism offerings reach new heights.

Elevating Tasmania’s Global Profile

Hosting the ATEC Meeting Place presents a unique opportunity for Tasmania to increase awareness of its premium tourism experiences among some of the world’s most influential travel buyers. By showcasing the state’s diverse offerings, Tasmania will have the chance to amplify its tourism profile, not just within Australia, but on the global stage.

This event is aligned with Tourism Tasmania’s long-term strategy, which aims to boost international visitation to 20% of total visitation by 2030. As more global travelers become aware of Tasmania’s unique destinations, the state will continue to position itself as a leading destination for international tourists.

Economic and Social Impact on Hobart and Beyond

The economic benefits of hosting the ATEC Meeting Place will be felt across Hobart and the wider Tasmanian community. The event will not only bring in international buyers but will also activate venues across Hobart, fill hundreds of hotel beds, and generate significant economic activity for the state. The exposure generated through media and social media will help promote Tasmania’s tourism sector to travel trade professionals as well as consumer audiences.

The event will also provide an opportunity for media outlets to cover Tasmania’s tourism offerings, reinforcing the state’s growing appeal to international travelers. With high-profile travel buyers visiting Tasmania, the international profile of the island is set to rise dramatically.

Pre-Event and Post-Event Itineraries to Deepen Connections

As part of the ATEC Meeting Place experience, Tourism Tasmania will offer travel buyers exclusive itineraries designed to showcase the very best of Tasmania. These itinerary experiences will allow buyers to explore the state first-hand, discovering what makes Tasmania such an appealing destination for international visitors.

These personalized pre- and post-event itineraries will give tourism operators and travel buyers the opportunity to build a deeper connection with Tasmania and its offerings. This will foster lasting relationships that will have a positive impact on future tourism and promote Tasmania as an enduring destination for international travelers.

Tasmania Recognized as a Leading International Destination

The announcement that Tasmania will host the ATEC Meeting Place further reinforces its position as a premium tourism destination and an ideal location for business events. Just this month, Hobart was named one of the top “Destinations of the Year” by Expedia, ranking in the top 10 global destinations in the 2026 Unpack report. This prestigious recognition highlights the growing global attention that Tasmania is receiving as a must-visit destination.

The combination of ATEC Meeting Place and Expedia’s ranking elevates Tasmania’s status on the global tourism map, signaling that the world is beginning to recognize the unique offerings of the island. Tasmania has become one of the best international travel destinations, and this recognition ensures that the state’s tourism sector will continue to grow and thrive.

The Future of Tasmania’s Tourism

With the ATEC Meeting Place scheduled for October 2026, Tasmania is set to showcase its tourism offerings to the world’s leading travel buyers. This event will highlight the island’s diverse tourism experiences, its natural beauty, and its reputation as a premium destination. By strategically hosting such a significant tourism event, Tourism Tasmania is laying the groundwork for long-term growth in the global tourism market.

As the event draws closer, Tasmania will continue to build its global tourism profile by attracting international buyers and investors to the island. The impact of the ATEC Meeting Place will be far-reaching, bringing tangible benefits to Tasmania’s tourism sector, increasing international visitation, and creating lasting economic benefits for the entire region.

Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Tasmania’s Tourism Growth

The decision to host the ATEC Meeting Place in Hobart in October 2026 marks a major milestone in the state’s journey to becoming a leading international tourism destination. With the event bringing together some of the world’s most influential travel buyers and offering ample opportunities for networking and business development, Tasmania’s tourism profile is set to grow significantly.

As the state works to increase international visitation and raise its profile on the global stage, hosting the ATEC Meeting Place serves as an essential part of Tasmania’s broader tourism strategy. The event promises to showcase the state’s diverse tourism experiences, foster strong relationships with the international travel industry, and contribute to Tasmania’s position as one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world.