The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) has welcomed the announcement by the chair of Tourism Australia that acting managing director Geoff Buckley has been confirmed as managing director.

As director, research and strategy, Geoff has been responsible for the overhaul of the government's research operations following the creation of Tourism Research Australia under the Tourism White Paper.

Under Geoff's direction, TRA has produced statistical and research services that have been timely, accessible and insightful and of great benefit to the industry.

In his time as acting managing director, there has been minimal disruption following the departure of Scott Morrison. Indeed it has been very much "business as usual" in terms of the day to day operational relationship between Tourism Australia and the industry.

The industry now can continue in the certainty that Tourism Australia is in good hands.

ATEC is also pleased to note the appointment of John O'Neill A.O. to the Tourism Australia Board.

With his extensive business background and his involvement with major events during his time at the helm of the Football Federation of Australia and, in particular, the Australian Rugby Union he will bring a particular perspective to the corporate governance of the organization.

Finally ATEC congratulates Tourism Australia director and former ATEC chair, Andrew Burnes, for his appointment as deputy chair of the Tourism Australia Board.

We would also like to record our thanks to outgoing deputy chair, Tony Clarke A.M. for his sterling service to the industry over a period that embraced substantial reform and external shocks such as September 11.