Tourism Australia’s annual conference, Destination Australia, is taking place in Sydney today, with more than 400 industry professionals in attendance.

The annual event will focus on the future of Australian tourism in a post-COVID world.

Among this year’s speaker line-up is Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan, Tourism Australia managing director Phillipa Harrison, journalist and executive producer of Living Black NITV/SBS Karla Grant and Qantas chief customer officer Stephanie Tully.

According to Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox, who is also set to speak at the event, some 450 in-person delegates are in attendance, plus a further 300 online.

“It is just so good to meet and connect with the incredible people in our industry,” he posted on LinkedIn.

“…the benefits of travel and in-person events is so clear when you return.”

In his opening address, Tourism Minister Dan Tehan was expected to discuss plans for a JobKeeper replacement, which is set to be finalised in the next fortnight, as reported by the Australian Financial Review earlier today.

According to the minister’s speech notes, Tehan said there is a plan to “build a bridge for tourism and get as many across it as possible”.

There is no word yet on whether the planned support with also cover the business events industry.

Coinciding with Destination Australia 2021, Tourism Australia today launched the next iteration of its Holiday Here This Year campaign.

“Every dollar spent on a holiday in Australia is a dollar that supports a tourism job and business and helps support our wonderful tourism sector,” Tehan said in a statement.

“So now is the time to book a holiday to explore one of our major cities, and experience the world-class accommodation, attractions, dining and culture on offer.”