Sydney will host Australia’s largest annual tourism trade event in 2027, with the Australian Tourism Exchange returning to New South Wales as the state prepares for a busy period of international travel and major events.
Tourism Australia announced that the Australian Tourism Exchange 2027 will bring together global travel buyers and Australian tourism operators to promote local experiences and build international business connections.
The event is expected to attract thousands of delegates, including tourism representatives from dozens of countries. This year’s exchange drew more than 2,900 attendees and buyers from over 32 nations.
ATE27 is set to be held at ICC Sydney and will place a spotlight on Sydney and regional NSW destinations at a time when the state is expanding its aviation and tourism infrastructure.
The announcement comes ahead of the opening of Western Sydney International Airport later this year, while preparations are also continuing for the Rugby World Cup 2027.
NSW officials say the event provides an opportunity to promote the state’s accessibility and tourism offerings as international travel continues to recover and competition between destinations intensifies.
Recent aviation developments have added to the state’s tourism ambitions, including expanded international capacity at Newcastle Airport and record international passenger numbers reported by Sydney Airport during the first quarter of this year.
Western Sydney International Airport is also expected to begin 24-hour operations from October 2026, creating additional capacity for domestic and international flights.
Federal Tourism Minister Don Farrell said Sydney would provide a strong setting for the tourism showcase following this year’s event in South Australia.
“ATE is a fantastic event which saw more than 2900 delegates from 32 countries in 2026,” he said.
“The Albanese Labor Government is proud to support Tourism Australia to deliver this important tourism tradeshow which provides opportunities for local businesses and local jobs.”
NSW Tourism Minister Steve Kamper said the event would help strengthen the state’s visitor economy ambitions.
“The Australian Tourism Exchange 2027 will showcase the incredible diversity of experiences our state has to offer to hundreds of local and international buyers,” he said.
The NSW Government has set a target of reaching $91 billion in annual visitor economy expenditure by 2035, with tourism continuing to play a major role in employment and business activity across the state.
Managing Director of Tourism Australia, Robin Mack, said the event remained central to building international tourism partnerships.
“These face-to-face meetings have strengthened relationships to deliver a pipeline of forward-business that contributes to the continued sustainable growth of the Australian tourism sector,” he said.
Karen Jones, chief executive of Destination NSW, said Sydney’s previous experience hosting the event in 2022 positioned the city well for another international tourism showcase.
“We can’t wait to welcome travel buyers and visitor economy stakeholders to the ICC Sydney for ATE27, alongside our NSW tourism businesses,” she said.
Tourism industry groups have increasingly focused on the role of large-scale trade events in rebuilding inbound travel following the disruptions of recent years. While international visitor numbers have improved, operators across parts of regional Australia continue to face challenges linked to workforce shortages, rising operating costs and aviation capacity constraints.
ATE27 is expected to provide tourism businesses with direct access to international buyers while promoting NSW destinations ranging from major city attractions to regional experiences across the state.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
