Tourism Australia’s dedicated business events division, Business Events Australia, has appointed Sharmishtha Patange as Business Events Manager – India, effective June 8, 2026, reinforcing its commitment to the Indian MICE market.
In her new role, Patange will support the implementation of Business Events Australia’s distribution strategies and partnerships across India while working closely with travel trade partners, event planners and corporate stakeholders to drive business events and incentive travel to Australia.
The appointment coincides with an enhanced focus on the Indian market through Business Events Australia’s Business Events Bid Fund Program (BFP). The initiative provides financial assistance to support the delivery of large-scale business events and incentive programmes in Australia.
As part of the expanded support, Business Events Australia has introduced dedicated subvention funding for short-term incentive groups from India comprising at least 400 delegates travelling to Australia before May 31, 2027. The funding can be used to offset eligible on-ground costs such as accommodation, venue hire and transportation, making Australia a more competitive destination for corporate incentive groups.
The move comes as India continues to emerge as a significant source market for Australia’s business events sector. According to Tourism Research Australia’s latest International Visitor Survey, business events arrivals from India increased by 9 per cent year-on-year in 2025, reaching 44,417 delegates. Visitor expenditure grew by 12 per cent during the same period to nearly AUD 279 million.
Commenting on the developments, 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.
He added, “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.”
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