New chair for Tourism Australia

New chair for Tourism Australia

Hotel industry leader Michael Issenberg has been named as the new chair of Tourism Australia, following the departure of Bob East late last month.

Issenberg has worked for Accor for more than 25 years, most recently as the chairman and CEO of AccorHotels Asia Pacific, based in Singapore. Prior to that, he spent five years at Mirvac Hotels, including three years as CEO.

Tourism Minister Dan Tehan said Tourism Australia would play an important role in supporting the local tourism sector as restrictions are lifted and international tourism resumes.

“Australia’s tourism industry is looking forward to the fast-approaching day when we welcome back international visitors,” he said.

“Mr Issenberg’s leadership will be crucial to promote Australia’s world-leading tourist attractions and entice even more visitors to holiday in our country

“He brings to the role a wealth of experience and great energy and commitment to support the industry and its 660,000 workers and businesses.

“I look forward to working with Michael and his team as Australia opens back up to the world.”

Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) chief executive Margy Osmond said Issenberg is a “fantastic appointment and will greatly strengthen our collective tourism industry and government efforts to get the industry back on its feet in what will be a long and challenging COVID-19 recovery”.

“Our industry has faced the fight of its life over the last 18 months, but as restrictions start to ease and as we start to welcome back international students, skilled workers and tourists, Michael’s appointment will greatly support what will be a major international inbound market rebuild,” she said.

“Michael is a lifetime member of Tourism & Transport Forum Australia, served on the TTF board for many years and is one of Australia’s tourism stalwarts with a wealth of knowledge and expertise.”

Additionally, Queensland’s Annabel Dolphin joins Tourism Australia’s board, Jeffrey Ellison will serve a second term as deputy chair, and John Hart has also been reappointed for a second term.

Latest News

  • Aviation

Jetstar connects travellers in Cairns and the Sunshine coast for the first time

Jetstar flew its inaugural flight between Cairns and the Sunshine Coast last night, connecting families and friends just in time for Christmas. The new service will operate three times a week, increasing to four during the summer school holidays, creating an affordable link between two of Queensland’s most popular tourism destinations. Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Chris Mills […]

Helloworld Travel Frontliners Forum wraps up in Singapore

The 2024 Helloworld Travel Frontliners Forum has wrapped up in style in Singapore as more than 500 attendees enjoyed the conference at the Marina Bay Sands Conference Centre. The conference was attended by agents from across the Helloworld branded and associate networks, My Travel Group and Magellan from across Australia and New Zealand, as well […]

  • News
  • Sustainability

The DARWIN200 conservation mission sails into Hobart

The DARWIN200 conservation mission aboard the Dutch tall ship Oosterschelde sailed into Hobart ahead of a programme of conservation projects. The Oosterschelde set sail from Plymouth Harbour, UK, in August 2023 on an epic two-year planetary conservation mission retracing Charles Darwin’s voyage of the Beagle and training 200 young environmentalists along the way. The aim was to inspire […]

ATIA safeguards members financial details ahead of FY24 accreditation-renewal period

The Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) has its commitment to safeguarding the sensitive financial data of its members as preparations commence for the FY24 accreditation-renewal period. With members about to receive ATIA’s request for FY24 financials, ATIA has today provided members with an update on its robust privacy and data security measures. “ATIA takes its […]

  • Events
  • Tour Operators
  • Tourism

NSW Tourism Association announces 2024 Awards winners

The NSW Tourism Association has announced the winners of the NSW Tourism Awards 2024 at a gala event at the Star Sydney. The evening celebrated the tourism and hospitality sectors in NSW, which are delivering world-class visitor experience that growing the NSW visitor economy. Winners were recognised with gold, silver, and bronze awards for their […]