Robert Irwin to follow in the footsteps of Barack Obama as he’s announced as a major speaker for world’s biggest tourism summit

Robert Irwin has been confirmed for the world’s biggest tourism event in Perth.

Following former US President Barack Obama and adventurer Bear Grylls, the 20-year-old conservationist will be a keynote speaker at the World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit 2024 in October.

Mr Obama, 62, survival expert Grylls, 49, and French President Emmanuel Macron, 46, all spoke at last year’s events.

Robert is the first major speaker announced for this year’s three-day summit, where he will join tourism industry leaders from organizations including Emirates, Etihad Airlines, Expedia and Visa.

The 20-year-old is known worldwide for his work in nature conservation and animal protection.

Robert, along with his mother, Terri, and sister, Bindi, have worked hard to preserve Steve Irwin’s legacy at Australia Zoo in the years since his passing.

He has also built a hugely successful career for himself as a TV presenter.

WA Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti said she is “thrilled” to have secured the celebrity zookeeper for the summit.

“Robert Irwin is a well-known Australian name, so we are very pleased to have secured him for this prestigious event,” she said.

“Robert’s passion for wildlife and nature certainly makes him an ideal speaker for this event, and I have no doubt he will be a big draw for those in attendance,” Saffioti continued.

The world summit is themed Ancient Land: New Perspectives and will showcase the natural beauty and Aboriginal cultural heritage of Western Australia.

It will be held at Crown Perth from October 8 to 10.