Melbourne confirmed as host city for ATE 2015

Tourism Australia has confirmed Melbourne will host the 2015 Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE), its major showcase for attracting international business.

ATE brings together around 600 travel wholesalers and agents from 38 countries annually, to meet and do business with 1500 Australian tourism seller delegates from around 500 companies.

According to Tourism Australia managing director, John O’Sullivan, the economic benefits of hosting the five-day event will be immediate.

“The host city can expect an immediate injection of $10 million into the local economy during the week of hosting ATE,” said O’Sullivan.

“Longer term the event’s impact is far and wide reaching as it provides a platform to further grow the $28 billion that is generated annually by international visitors.”

ATE focuses on showcasing Australian destinations and experiences offered by Australian tourism businesses, so that they might be converted into future bookings and trips to the country.

Victoria has had a strong representation at ATE this year, with 37 tourism businesses presenting products to global travel distributors. Melbourne and Victoria are hoping that this will translate into a bigger place for the state within international travel itineraries.

“Melbourne is the perfect place to host ATE in 2015,” said Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Louise Asher.

“It is Australia’s home of major events and has world class facilities for all types of major and business events.”

Further details, including dates for the 2015 Australian Tourism Exchange, will be announced in the coming months.