Events Deliver Impact in Melbourne, Geelong and Beyond

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust (MCET) – operators of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and the future Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre – have released their Annual Report and Impact Report, highlighting their important role in driving economic, social and environmental impact. 

In 2023-24, MCET generated $777 million in economic impact for the State of Victoria, as well as achieving important climate change, water, procurement, equality and recognition targets. 

MCEC proudly hosted 720 events, including the high-profile ASEAN Commemorative Summit, Lions International Convention, the largest AIME in a decade, and the BBC Earth Experience, direct from its world premiere in London. 3.2 million people visited MCEC, a 23% increase from last year. 

In an important milestone, MCET launched its latest Accessibility Action Plan in 2023-24, which was developed with input from people with lived experience along with expertise from accessibility consultants in the tourism industry.  

The Chief Executive Natalie O’Brien AM said: “as leaders in the events industry, we play an important role in contributing to a better future through our commitments to people, planet and economic prosperity. We’re proud of the innovative sustainability programs we’ve implemented at MCEC over the year, as well as the progress we’ve made in Geelong, in collaboration with our project partners and Wadawurrung Traditional Owners. We look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the communities we serve.”

MCEC’s innovative returnable coffee cup program served over 894,000 delegates with reusable stainless-steel cups, preventing thousands of disposable cups from ending up in landfill. 

During the year, MCEC developed a carbon emissions inventory, calculating Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. By including Scope 3 emissions, MCEC is extending its responsibility beyond its direct operations and encouraging sustainable practices along the entire value chain. The carbon inventory will also be used to develop a roadmap to achieve net zero by 2050.  

Sustainability and Impact Manger Kristen Gillespie said: “We’ve made important progress towards our ambitious impact goals, be that through waste reduction efforts, sponsorship for community organisations, or improving access for people with disabilities. We know many of our customers, partners and stakeholders share our commitments to sustainability and community impact, and we look forward to continuing to work with them to ensure it remains a top priority.”

Continuing its commitment to supporting leading Australian charities and community organisations, MCEC celebrated a decade of support for the Good Friday Appeal and OzHarvest, and workplace giving increased by 297%. 

Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos said: “MCET plays a key role in our booming visitor and events economy, which keeps our hotels and hospitality venues thriving and backs local businesses and jobs."

In Geelong, Nyaal Banyul project partners have established a gold standard for social procurement during the construction of Nyaal Banyul, providing fully funded training for 28 trainees or apprentices who have experienced barriers to employment.  

MCET also collaborated with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners to develop the award-winning brand identity for the future venue, which takes inspiration from the venue’s gifted name and the landscapes and heritage of Wadawurrung Country. 

Read the Annual Report here and the Impact Report here