Skip to main content

Talking Tourism Business Forum

Western Australia hosts the 2026 Talking Tourism Business Forum
2026 Talking Tourism Business Forum
The 2026 Talking Tourism Business Forum is coming to Western Australia, bringing tourism operators and industry professionals together from across the country ahead of the 2025 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

Join your peers to share insights, learn from industry experts, and gain practical strategies that can be applied directly to your business. Expand your knowledge, explore new ideas, and strengthen your tourism operations through two days of collaboration and innovation.

Book Tickets Now

2026 Agenda

Explore two days of immersive workshops, insightful discussions, and meaningful networking at the 2026 Talking Tourism Business Forum. From hands-on learning on Rottnest Island to inspiring presentations in Fremantle, each session is designed to give you practical strategies, industry insights, and connections to strengthen your tourism business.

5 March | Rottnest Island Workshop & Panel Discussion

Delegates travel from Fremantle to Rottnest Island via ferry. On the island, delegates take part in one of three immersive workshops: Aboriginal Engagement, Tourism Infrastructure Design, or Environment Management. In the afternoon, all participants join a panel with the Rottnest Island Authority (RIA), providing forward-looking perspectives and practical insights into the island’s tourism priorities.

5 March Evening - Welcome Function

An exclusive networking event for Business Forum delegates only.
Connect with fellow attendees in a relaxed setting, continue discussions from the day, and build lasting industry relationships, all whilst taking in the natural beauty of Rottnest Island.

6 March | Fremantle – Main Stage Presentations

On Friday morning, the program continues with inspiring talks from industry innovators and changemakers, exploring the role of AI (artificial intelligence), AR (augmented reality), and emerging technologies in shaping the future of tourism. A special keynote presentation will provide further insights and inspiration. The morning concludes with an industry lunch, offering valuable time to network, share learnings, and reflect on the insights gained.

SPECIAL GUEST

Simon Kriss, your 2026 Keynote Presenter

Simon Kriss is a distinguished AI thought leader, keynote speaker, and Chief AI Officer at simonkriss.ai. He serves as a Senior Fellow of the AI for Developing Countries Forum, where he advocates for equitable AI adoption globally.
A trusted adviser to boards and C-suite executives, Simon helps organisations navigate AI adoption and governance with a focus on ethical outcomes. His global speaking engagements include a notable presentation at the United Nations in Geneva, where he introduced innovative concepts like “digital trash.” He works with a range of clients, from government authorities to global brands such as Coca-Cola.
As the author of The AI Empowered Customer Experience and host of the popular “AI in 5” podcast, Simon brings over three decades of international business experience to his insights on AI-driven transformation. He is renowned for identifying hidden opportunities for businesses to innovate responsibly and succeed in the evolving AI landscape.

$190pp

Talking Tourism Business Forum

WHERE:
Rottnest Island & Fremantle
WHEN: 5 – 6 March 2026

Price (incl. GST)

Purchase Tickets

$280pp

2025 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards

WHERE: Fremantle Prison
WHEN: 6 March 2026

Price (incl. GST)

Purchase Tickets
OUR SPONSORS
Sponsors

Become a Sponsor

If you would like to learn more about sponsorship opportunities for the 2026 Talking Tourism Business Forum, please contact [email protected] directly or get in touch via our contact form.

Learn More

Join us in 2026 to learn, connect, and find inspiration for developing and growing your tourism business.

Book Your Tickets Now

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and live, and recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community. We also pay our respects to Elders past and present.