The Department is responsible for supporting the Minister for Tourism at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Tourism Ministerial Meetings and contributing to the work of the associated tourism officials' group and the APEC Tourism Working Group.
The APEC Tourism Working Group is a sectoral group established in 1991. The work of the Tourism Working Group is guided by the APEC Tourism Charter which reflects a collective commitment to improve the economic, social and environmental well-being of APEC through tourism.
The APEC Tourism Working Group meets twice a year. APEC Tourism Ministers' Meetings are held every two years. Peru hosted the fifth Tourism Minister's Meeting in Lima in April 2008.
In 2007-2008 Australia has undertaken the role of Lead Shepherd (Chair) of the Tourism Working Group. Under Australia's direction, the Group is concentrating on the key priorities of structural reform and greater collaboration with both other APEC fora and private sector stakeholders.
Australia hosted and chaired the thirtieth APEC Tourism Working Group meeting on 16-17 May 2007 at the Gold Coast. An APEC Tourism Forum hosted in conjunction with the UNWTO on The Importance of Collaboration in Times of Crisis, was held prior to the thirtieth Tourism Working Group meeting.
For additional information on the APEC Tourism Working Group visit the APEC website
.