Busselton is set to host a national tourism conference next year.
UPDATE: Busselton has been confirmed as the host city for the 2026 Australian Regional Tourism Convention, set to take place from October 20–23, 2026 at the new Saltwater Convention Centre. This is a significant development for the South West region, promising to attract tourism professionals nationwide and reshape the future of regional destinations.
The announcement comes as Busselton gears up for the completion of the Saltwater Convention Centre early next year, marking a pivotal moment for the local tourism industry. This national event is poised to draw industry leaders eager to explore new opportunities and strategies for regional tourism, a crucial component of Western Australia’s economy.
“Regional tourism is a vital driver of Western Australia’s visitor economy,” stated Anneke Brown, managing director of Tourism WA. She emphasized the convention’s role in fostering collaboration among leaders and celebrating the unique aspects of Australia’s regional tourism landscape.
City of Busselton Mayor Phill Cronin echoed this sentiment, highlighting the significance of the convention for the city. “It will provide a significant economic boost during the shoulder tourism season and showcase our region to key tourism industry leaders,” he noted. Cronin added that the Saltwater Busselton has enhanced the region’s appeal for corporate events, attracting high-yield visitors during traditionally slower periods.
The successful bid to host this prestigious event was a collaborative effort led by Australia’s South West, alongside Tourism Western Australia, the City of Busselton, Business Events Perth, the Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association, the South West Development Commission, the Forum Advocating Cultural and Eco-Tourism, and Regional Development Australia South West.
This convention is not just an opportunity for networking; it represents a critical moment for regional tourism at a time when the industry is recovering and evolving. As the event date approaches, stakeholders are keen to leverage this platform to discuss innovations and challenges facing regional tourism in Australia.
Stay tuned for more updates as Busselton prepares to welcome tourism professionals from across the country. With the Saltwater Convention Centre set to open soon, the excitement is building for what promises to be an impactful event for the region and the entire Australian tourism sector.
