conference program
wednesday 28 October 2026
THEATRE ROYAL, hobart
1.45pm for 2.00pm - 5.45pm
The Meeting Place 2026 (MP26) Conference will bring together industry leaders and innovative thinkers to explore the forces shaping the future of inbound tourism.
Through a dynamic mix of keynote presentations, rapid-fire sessions and a live industry debate, delegates will explore the trends, technologies and changing traveller behaviours reshaping our industry – from understanding tomorrow’s visitor and evolving distribution models to the practical strategies needed to thrive through change.
Join us for a fascinating afternoon of fresh perspectives, challenging conversations and practical insights designed to inspire both professionally and personally.
Session Time
Afternoon session 1
2.00pm - 3.10pm
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Afternoon session 1
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Afternoon session 1
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Afternoon Session 1
With MP26 Conference MC, Jennifer Bruce
Presented by:
Presented by:
The tourism landscape is changing rapidly, shaped by evolving traveller expectations, global trends, technology and shifting market dynamics. In this insightful presentation, Robin Mack from Tourism Australia will explore the key trends and opportunities shaping the future of Australian tourism.
Gain valuable insights into what’s ahead, what travellers are looking for, and how Australian tourism businesses can adapt, innovate and remain competitive in a changing global marketplace. A forward-looking conversation designed to help you navigate change, identify emerging opportunities and prepare your business for the future.
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The way travellers discover, plan and book travel is changing rapidly. AI-powered tools are reshaping the customer journey, creating new pathways to inspiration and purchase and challenging the traditional role of search engines, websites and online travel agencies.
Drawing on decades at the forefront of online travel, Rod Cuthbert will explore what this shift means for Australia’s inbound tourism industry. This session will unpack the changing distribution landscape and consider how tourism businesses can respond — from understanding where customers are discovering and booking travel, to building a diverse, sustainable and high-yielding distribution strategy for the future.
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Afternoon Session 2
3.30pm - 5.45pm
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Afternoon Session 2
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Afternoon Session 2
Two teams of industry leaders go head-to-head on one of tourism's big questions: work with trade, or build direct? This is a tongue-in-cheek debate with a serious point. Whether our debaters believe every word or not, they'll have you weighing up all sides of the distribution equation. Get ready to join in the fun, pick up some genuine insight from those at the top of their game, and see who comes out victorious in the Great Meeting Place Debate!
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Explore how international markets are changing the way travellers discover, plan and purchase travel. This session examines emerging consumer trends, changing expectations and the evolving digital marketplace, with insights into how travellers across China, North America, Europe and emerging markets are finding and booking experiences. Discover the different pathways to purchase, the influence of social media and technology, and the market-specific nuances shaping tomorrow’s international visitor.
Presented by:
Presented by:
Dr Lila Landowski
Multi-award-winning Neuroscientist, Senior Lecturer, Director, WHO Fides member, TEDx speaker, Keynote speaker
Watch Dr Landowski's most popular Keynote at TEDx Hobart:
We'll see you in Hobart/Nipaluna.
Commercially connecting Australia's leading tourism buyers and sellers.