NSW is getting ready to take centre stage at the ICC Sydney, where industry leaders, experts and stakeholders will gather for the 2024 NSW Visitor Economy Forum on Thursday, 3 October with a program focused on the theme ‘Experience NSW’.

Now in its third year, the full-day event will inspire fresh thinking by recognising that visitors are increasingly seeking authentic, interactive experiences that enable them to connect with local culture, natural landscapes and vibrant communities when travelling.

As the NSW Government steers a new policy direction towards experience tourism, the event will discuss the latest trends, strategies and visitor experiences that will accelerate sector growth in the coming years.

News presenter for the Seven Network and regional NSW accommodation business owner, Edwina Bartholomew will host this year’s forum, bringing a unique blend of media expertise and industry experience.

Attendees will also hear from former Executive Director and Chief Technology Officer of Lonely Planet, Gus Balbontin who describes himself as an investor, advisor, adventurer and alternative futurist. Gus enjoys sharing stories about focusing on human impact, adaptability and embracing authenticity.

Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said: “As the government puts experience tourism at the centre of our forthcoming Visitor Economy Strategy, it’s an important moment to bring the industry together.

“The 2024 Visitor Economy Forum will be a great opportunity to connect, share insights and strategies to shape the future and grow the industry.”

Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox said: “As the lead agency, champion and voice of the NSW visitor economy, Destination NSW is focused on developing rich, immersive experiences across the state that meet the demand and expectation from potential visitors.

“Visitors to NSW want to know what locals love and have a strong desire to delve into experiences that enrich their lives, leaving them with an impression that makes them want to come back for more. 

“This is an exciting time for the NSW visitor economy, and we look forward to welcoming attendees to our forum next month. We hope everyone will leave feeling energised and inspired by new ways to grow their business and elevate the NSW visitor experience.”

MC Edwina Bartholomew who owns Warramba in Capertee Valley and is currently building a boutique hotel in Carcoar said: "I am absolutely thrilled to be teaming up with Destination NSW to welcome partners from across the state to their forum in Sydney.

"As a passionate business owner in the NSW visitor economy, I can't wait to lead discussions on what is next for our state and help identify future opportunities.

"There is no better state in Australia to visit and promote. I look forward to exploring everything NSW has to offer at the Destination NSW conference in October.”

Keynote speaker Gus Balbontin said: “Giving your customers an experience they will never forget is a certain way to drive innovation in your business and stay relevant. The pursuit will inevitably deliver uniqueness, authenticity, surprise and delight.”

Following talks from keynote speakers, attendees will have an opportunity to select two deep dive sessions, exploring specific growth opportunities for local visitor economies. There are six topics for attendees to choose from:

  • International market insights: North Asia
  • International market insights: South East Asia and India
  • International market insights: Western
  • Connecting with visitors through culture
  • Leveraging world-class events
  • The high-yield opportunity: business events and corporate travel.

The 2024 Visitor Economy Forum is free to attend and open to all visitor economy stakeholders including operators, trade partners, industry representatives and government colleagues.

A full event program will be announced soon along with further guest speakers.

Places are limited. For more information and to register, click here.

For interview requests or to attend the forum in a media capacity, please contact pressoffice@dnsw.com.au