Victoria To Remain The Leading Business Destination

A major expansion of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre will ensure Victoria retains its status as the national leader for major business events.

The 2015-16 Victorian Budget includes $190-210 million in funding for Stage Two of the Centre’s expansion, staving off interstate competitors improving their facilities to take events from Victoria.

Lucrative major business events attract visitors from all over the world, and contribute $274 million to the state’s economy each year, but renewed competition means we have to work hard to stay number one.

Business events boast a bigger yield than any other under the tourism sector – with attendees routinely spending up to six times as much as holidaymakers.

The completion of Stage Two will result in an additional 74,000 international visitors each year, who spend an average of $693 each day. That’s a $167 million increase in visitor spending.

The Andrews Labor Government’s investment will create 276 jobs during construction, as well as 865 jobs once operational. The project will include a 7500 square metre expansion of exhibition space, added multi-purpose space and links to the existing Melbourne Exhibition Centre and Melbourne Convention Centre.

The Labor Government is ensuring Victoria remains a leader in tourism. The Victorian Visitor Economy Review – the first of its kind in nearly 20 years – will study the major events of cities in Australia and around the world, to be completed by the end of May. We will use the review as a map to help Victoria grow.

The Budget also includes a $20 million annual boost to strengthen the war chest used to secure major events in Melbourne and regional Victoria.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism and Major Events, John Eren

“Our impressive calendar of business events keeps our economy strong. It’s great for business, fills our hotels and bars and creates jobs for Victorians.”

“We are working hard to ensure Victoria remains the leading destination for business, and this investment will help us secure tourism now and into the future.”

“Our first Budget ensures Victoria will keep its claim as the major events capital for many years to come.”

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