International guests from Europe and the USA will address the tourism industry in Sydney today, to share global perspectives on how renewable fuels are driving the future of tourism, transport and aviation.
The high-profile luncheon, hosted by the Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) with series partner IFM Investors, will be held at the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) as part of TTF’s Fuelling the Future of Tourism Series 2026.
It follows a successful event at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre on Wednesday, which brought global sustainability voices together with Queensland’s key tourism and transport industry stakeholders.
TTF CEO Margy Osmond said the discussion comes at a pivotal moment for the tourism sector, with international efforts to decarbonise transport reshaping long-haul travel and the wider visitor economy.
“Learning from markets that are already progressing sustainable fuel supply and policy is essential if Australia is to maintain strong international connectivity,” Ms Osmond said.
“The events this week have been an incredible opportunity for the industry to hear insights from international industry leaders, so Australia can stay competitive as a long-haul destination in a highly competitive global environment.”
Today’s event in Sydney features Finnair’s VP Sustainability, Riku Aho, who’s visiting from Helsinki, as keynote speaker, along with Ann-Sofie Hoerlin, Strategic Advisor, Sustainable Aviation and former Head of Sustainability at SAS – Scandinavian Airlines.
The event will also include a panel with Carnival Corporation’s Vice President, Decarbonisation, Marcel Goncalves, who will provide insights into how cruise ships are developing innovative technologies and practices now ahead of alternative energy sources becoming available at scale.
Local speakers include IFM Investors’ Director, Sustainability – Infrastructure, Prue Newall and Sydney Airport’s Group Executive, Government Relations, Sustainability & Legal, Karen Tompkins.
The Brisbane event earlier this week also heard from Brisbane Airport’s Head of Sustainability, Jessica Rudd who discussed how the Brisbane 2032 Olympics could act as a catalyst for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in Australia and assist in establishing a domestic SAF industry.
Ms Osmond said this does not only impact airlines and aviation but rather touches every corner of the tourism industry.
“From hotels and tourism operators to cruise lines and event organisers, the entire sector relies on strong long-haul connections to bring visitors to Australia,” she said.
“When we can meet sustainability expectations, we unlock opportunities for major conferences, packed venues and thriving local businesses, spreading the benefits across the whole visitor economy.”
ENDS