Albany selected as 2027 WA Tourism Conference host after successful start to tourism in bicentenary year

Albany has been named as the next host city of the WA Tourism Conference, with the major tourism event scheduled to land in the port city in May 2027.

Organisers announced Albany’s selection at the 2026 Perth Airport WA Tourism Conference dinner at the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum on May 26.

Tourism Council WA chief executive Evan Hall said the organising committee was excited to bring the key annual event to the Great Southern from May 24 to 26, 2027.

“The 2027 WA Tourism Conference is expected to attract more than 200 delegates from across WA and make a significant economic impact on the local destination,” he said.

“We’re looking forward to showcasing Albany to tourism businesses and industry delegates from across WA, who will then promote the destination to potential visitors.”

The conference was established in 2015 and brings hundreds of delegates together for three days of connection, networking and professional development.

Delegates include tourism operators, local and State government leaders, tourism researchers and academics, and industry professionals working in fields from marketing and events to aviation and accommodation.

Attendees can meet and network with industry colleagues, and get the chance to hear from keynote speakers who are leading their industries about key issues for the tourism industry and innovative ideas for the future.

Albany hosted the inaugural regional version of the Statewide conference in 2017, and City of Albany mayor Greg Stocks said the city was “proud” to have one of WA tourism’s key professional events back in the city next year.

“In 2026, Albany marked its bicentenary, welcoming one of the biggest years in tourism our city has ever seen,” he said.

“Visitors from across the country and around the world experienced our extraordinary coastline, rich culture and landmark events, igniting excitement and momentum.

“Hosting the WA Tourism Conference in 2027 recognises the enormous work undertaken by our local tourism businesses, event organisers, volunteers and wider community in creating exceptional visitor experiences and directly impacting the economic development of our city.

“Albany has long been recognised as one of WA’s premier regional destinations, and this conference will provide an important platform to share ideas, strengthen industry connections and help shape the future of tourism in our State.”