The scheme, which is run in line with Australia’s State and Territory Tourism Organisations, has been given "a new look and feel" in its 32nd year and has "greater personalisation, faster qualifying times and shorter, more interactive training modules".

The improvements to the programme were made in conjunction with more than 400 stakeholders and 1,000 existing "Aussie Specialist" agents.

Tourism Australia managing director Phillipa Harrison said the investment comes after many frontline travel agents reportedly used the programme during the Covid-19 pandemic to "learn and position themselves as champions for Australian travel" once borders reopen.

"Australia remains one of the most desirable travel destinations in the world and the Aussie Specialist programme helps to ensure we will be in the best possible position to convert travel demand into bookings as soon as borders reopen," Harrison added.

"We now have more than 26,000 qualified Aussie Specialists worldwide and hope the new programme will allow more agents to complete their learning so they too can best sell Australian tourism experiences."

Tourism Australia also confirmed the inaugural Australia Global Summit will take place on 16 November, 2021. All "Aussie Specialists" and distribution partners are invited to take part in the event, free of charge.