Australia is strengthening its focus on India’s booming MICE and incentive travel market with the appointment of Sharmishtha Patange as Business Events Manager – India for Business Events Australia, effective 8 June 2026.

The appointment reflects Tourism Australia’s growing commitment to the Indian business events sector, which continues to see strong growth in outbound corporate and incentive travel. In her new role, Sharmishtha will work closely with MICE planners, corporate clients and trade partners to strengthen Australia’s positioning as a leading destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions.

The announcement also comes alongside enhanced support under Australia’s Business Events Bid Fund Program, including new funding support for large Indian incentive groups travelling to Australia before May 2027.

Speaking about the growing potential of the India business events market and Tourism Australia’s continued investment in the sector, Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager – India, Tourism Australia, said, “India is a critical growth market for Tourism Australia, driven by improved bilateral relationships and the future scale of the market. We’re thrilled to support short-term event bids from India via our Bid Fund Program and nurture key customer relationships through the support of a new dedicated Business Events resource. By doubling down on our Bid Fund Program and placing a dedicated expert on the ground, we are ensuring that Australia’s incentive offering remains top-of-mind for planners and corporate clients in India.”

According to Tourism Research Australia, business events arrivals from India grew 9% year-on-year in 2025, reaching 44,417 delegates, while visitor spending rose 12% to nearly AUD 279 million — highlighting India’s increasing importance in Australia’s business events strategy.

A strong move as destinations worldwide compete harder for the high-value Indian MICE traveller.

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