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
2.00pm
Session Time
2.25pm
Session Time
2.40pm
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.
Presented by:
Our industry has seen 30 years of technology-driven disruption - from the web and OTAs to Google, smartphones, social media and algorithmic discovery. The result is not less travel, but a much bigger market operating in very different ways. Some businesses adapted and prospered; others disappeared.
Drawing on his experience at the forefront of online travel, Rod will explore what that history tells us about disruption, and what changes the arrival of AI might bring for tourism suppliers and the distribution channel. He'll look at where value is likely to shift, which roles are most vulnerable, and where businesses should focus to ensure they remain relevant as the next major technology cycle reshapes travel.
Presented by:
Session Time
3.40pm
Session Time
4.20pm
Session Time
5.00pm
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!
Presented by:
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.