Tourism Australia Board appointments

I am pleased to announce two new appointments to the Tourism Australia Board, Mr John Hart and Mr Jeffrey Ellison, and the reappointment of Ms Hayley Baillie for another term.

Mr Hart brings extensive leadership experience from the hospitality industry, where he has over 30 years' experience in operational, human resources and industrial relations roles. Mr Hart is currently the Executive Chair of the Australian Chamber – Tourism, and Executive Director of the Restaurant and Catering Industry Association Australia.

Mr Ellison is the Chief Executive and Managing Director of the SeaLink Travel Group Limited, a position he has held since early 1997. SeaLink is Australia's largest tourism and marine transport company, transporting over 8.5 million passengers per annum. It employs 1,600 staff and operates a fleet of 77 vessels and 60 coaches across five states and territories.

Ms Baillie has a distinguished career in the accommodation sector, co-founding Baillie Lodges in 2003. Baillie Lodges has developed three luxury lodges in standout locations of unique natural significance including Uluru, Lord Howe Island and Kangaroo Island.

"Tourism Australia promotes our compelling tourism story to the world through campaigns such as Dundee and UnDiscover that highlight some of the very best attractions and experiences our country has to offer," Minister Birmingham said.

"Mr Hart and Mr Ellison, along with Ms Baillie, bring a wealth of experience in travel, tourism and hospitality, and I trust will make an invaluable contribution to ensuring Australia continues to be a highly desirable destination for international travellers.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank outgoing members Ms Kate Vale and Mr Francis Wong for their significant contributions."