BMIHMS leads global conversation on tourism’s future

04 February 2026 | Media Release

The 36th Annual International CAUTHE Conference brings together leading academics, researchers, industry professionals and policymakers from over 18 countries for the region’s premier tourism, hospitality and events (TH&E) gathering.for the region’s premier tourism, hospitality and events (TH&E) gathering.

Led by the Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School (BMIHMS), Torrens University Australia, the 2026 The Council for Australasian

Tourism and Hospitality Education conference will explore the theme Cultivating Cohesion and Connection through Tourism, Hospitality and Events, highlighting the sector’s role in strengthening communities and driving sustainable agendas.

For more than 30 years, BMIHMS has been recognised as Australia’s leading hotel management school, known for its immersive, industry-focused education and strong global reputation. Its Tourism and Hospitality Research and Practice Cluster (THRP), co-led by CAUTHE 2026 Co-Convenor Associate Professor Anita Manfreda, continue to advance research in sustainable tourism, workforce development, leadership, luxury, technology and inclusion.

Professor Simon Pawson, Associate Dean and CAUTHE 2026 co-convenor, said the conference is aligned to BMIHMS’ commitment to real world learning.

“Tourism education must be made for real life. At BMIHMS, our students learn in environments that mirror the industry they’re entering, fast-paced, people-centred and constantly evolving.

“Excellence in education today means more than theory. It’s about innovation, scholarship and leadership that translate into real‑world impact. CAUTHE 2026 will highlight the educators and researchers who are redefining what high‑quality tourism and hospitality education looks like.”

“Tourism, hospitality and events are industries built on connection. CAUTHE 2026 will bring together the people, ideas and partnerships needed to strengthen that connection and drive sustainable, inclusive development across the region.”

Adelaide: The ideal host city for CAUTHE 2026

Adelaide’s strong community ethos, sustainability leadership and vibrant tourism and hospitality sector make it the perfect setting for CAUTHE 2026.

Associate Professor Anita Manfreda said the city embodies the spirit of the conference theme.

“Adelaide is where innovation and community meet. It offers the ideal environment for meaningful dialogue about the future of our industries, and we look forward to welcoming delegates for an inspiring and impactful event.”

“The THRP cluster research is grounded in understanding how tourism and hospitality can strengthen connection, to places and to people. I’m driven by the belief that our industries have a unique capacity to bring about transformation and positive impact, and CAUTHE 2026 is an important opportunity to advance that work with colleagues from across the region and beyond,” said Anita.

The CAUTHE 2026 program highlights

The CAUTHE 2026 program will feature:

• Keynotes and plenaries exploring cohesion, community and the future of TH&E
• Parallel research streams on sustainability, workforce futures, digital transformation, destination development and leadership
• Higher Degree Research Colloquium supporting emerging scholars
• Industry roundtables and policy dialogues addressing workforce, sustainability and visitor economy resilience
• Networking events showcasing Adelaide’s unique food, wine, culture and creative industries

Register here and check out the speakers.

About BMIHMS

The Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School is Australia’s leading hotel management school, renowned for its immersive, industry focused education and global reputation for excellence. For more than 30 years, BMIHMS has developed future leaders in hospitality and tourism through a curriculum that integrates academic rigour, practical experience and personal and professional development.