Peter O'Brien, currently President of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and a former Deputy Chair of the Tourism Council of Australia, has been appointed to the Board of Tourism Australia.

Announcing the appoinment, Tourism Minister Fran Bailey said Peter O'Brien was highly experience to help grow Australia's $81 million tourism industry.

"Peter O'Brien has had a long association with tourism, especially in major events and tourism infrastructure."

Peter O'Brien, is currently Managing Director, Developments, Oceanis Holdings Limited and owner of Australian Alpine Enterprises (AAE) and Oceanis Holdings.

AAE operates the Mount Hotham and Falls Creek ski resorts while Oceanis is one of the world's largest aquarium developers and operators.

Peter O'Brien formerly served with the Victorian Tourism and Industry Council and has held board appointments in the catering and tourism industries. Peter has also consulted to the Sydney Olympic and Stadium Australia.

Peter O'Brien's appointment takes effect from 6 August 2007, when he replaces John O'Neill AO who resigned on 8 June 2007.