The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced its full stellar line-up for its 24th Global Summit in Perth, Western Australia (8-10 Oct), with 68th U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and conservationist and TV personality Robert Irwin set to take to the stage.

During a fireside chat with Julia Simpson, WTTC President and CEO, Secretary Kerry will share insights in navigating the international political landscape, forging strong alliances, and facilitating international cooperation for a more resilient and sustainable future.

Son of the legendary Steve Irwin, Robert will share unforgettable stories from his adventures in the wild, and how Travel & Tourism can play a vital role in creating a future where nature is enjoyed while being protected and celebrated.

Under the theme “Ancient Land: New Perspectives,” this year’s Global Summit will spotlight Australia’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders, emphasising its innovation and sustainable growth.

The global tourism body is also delighted to announce that alongside Julia Simpson and WTTC Chair Greg O’Hara, the Hon. Roger Cook MLA, Premier Western Australia, will open the Global Summit on 9 Oct.

Industry trailblazers from across the globe will come together in the West Australian capital to continue efforts for a safer, more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future in Travel & Tourism.

Notable speakers include Di Bain, Chair, Tourism Western Australia; Audrey Hendley, President, American Express Travel; Matt Goldberg, President and Group CEO, Tripadvisor; Jane Sun, Group CEO, Trip.com; Frank Marini, President and CEO, Railbookers Group; Jason Waters, CEO, Perth Airport; Kelly Craighead, President and CEO, CLIA; Francis Gatare, CEO, Rwanda Development Board; Christie Travers-Smith, Head of Retail and Travel EMEA Partnerships, Google, and many other business leaders from around the world.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President and CEO said: “We are delighted to have such influential speakers confirmed for our Global Summit in the beautiful city of Perth.

“This is our first ever major event in the Oceania region, and it will bring together many of the world’s most powerful leaders in our sector to discuss and secure its long-term future, which is critical to economies and jobs around the world.”

Official government delegations from around the world and representing more than 25 countries will be in attendance, with delegations from several G20 economies, including Argentina, Australia, China, Mexico, South Africa, and the U.S.

Delegations from other major economies include Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Thailand, and the UAE, will also be participating, with the Deputy Prime Ministers of the Bahamas and Fiji also in attendance.

A new addition to WTTC’s Global Summit, the Investors’ Nest will see university students from around the world pitch their ideas for sustainable tourism to Travel and Tourism investors in a Shark Tank-style format. The winner will be announced during at the end of the Global Summit.