Australia cements its position as a premier global business events destination
With continued investment in infrastructure and a new initiative enacting sustainability practices, Australia continues to attract international association conferences and corporate incentive programmes seeking lasting impact
Central to the sustained wave of new infrastructure throughout Australia are premium accommodation options. Over the next two years, the country will introduce nearly 6,000 new hotel rooms, with approximately 60 per cent of these offering premium accommodation. Several international hotel brands are preparing to make their Australian debut, including St Regis and Andaz on the Gold Coast, the Waldorf Astoria in Sydney/Warrane, and both The Hoxton and Nu By Yoo in Melbourne/Narrm. In addition, the renowned Emirates Wolgan Valley retreat in the Blue Mountains will reopen this July following a major A$50 million refurbishment, debuting as the world’s first Ritz-Carlton Lodge.
Alba Thermal Springs and Spa, Mornington Peninsula © Tourism Australia
Alba Thermal Springs and Spa, Mornington Peninsula © Tourism Australia
Sydney Oyster Farm, Hawkesbury River © Tourism Australia
Sydney Oyster Farm, Hawkesbury River © Tourism Australia
Australia’s major convention facilities sit in the heart of its vibrant city centres. World-class offerings such as the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre located in the South Bank cultural district, the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre situated beside the Yarra River and the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre located in the harbour-front Darling Harbour precinct allow delegates to walk to natural landmarks, hotels, bars and restaurants within minutes. The ease of access to a host of city-centre hotel options also makes planning simpler.
Logistical ease
Logistical ease remains a major factor for international organisers. Australia’s transparent pricing model, where taxes are automatically included in quoted prices, a culture of tipping not being expected and current favourable exchange rates with many markets all enhance the destination’s overall value proposition. Aviation access continues to expand, including from Europe. Finnair is due to launch services to Australia via Asia in October while British Airways will launch its first Melbourne service via Asia in early 2027. The national carrier, Qantas, is due to launch its highly-anticipated, non-stop service between London and Sydney in October 2027, a world-first for the ultimate aviation milestone.
Meaningful culture and culinary excellence
Australia’s meaningful cultural experiences and culinary excellence are a big plus for delegates and participants. Menus from inner city restaurants to small, regional venues emphasise sustainable supply chains, with seasonality ensuring high quality produce and freshness with a drink offering to match. Whether from award-winning wine regions in the south or locally produced spirits from almost all corners of the country, flavours incorporating - or inspired by - the local environment are at the heart of Australia’s gastronomy.
Corporate programmes are increasingly incorporating the traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through Welcome to Country ceremonies, guided walks and First Nations-led workshops. These cultural elements coexist with hands-on corporate social responsibility projects, such as reef conservation and habitat restoration, allowing organisations to leave a genuine legacy.
Bid Fund Progam extended to 2032
Business Events Australia recently announced an extension to the Bid Fund Program, a subvention fund offering financial support at the critical bidding stage, through to 2032.
Green is our gold
Also announced is a new sustainability initiative, Green Is Our Gold, that encourages operators across the country to commit to integrating a set of sustainability principles into their operations. For planners, this offers assurance that they can plan using a consistent framework for measuring the true footprint of their event.
From sailing across Sydney Harbour, to exploring the ancient Daintree Rainforest via Cairns/Gimuy, a key selling point for Australia remains the seamless integration of its urban centres with the natural wonders on their doorstep. Coupled with the warm and welcoming nature of Aussies, Australia is in prime position to remain competitive on the global stage.
Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane © Tourism Australia
Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane © Tourism Australia
For more information on hosting a business event in Australia, click here