MCEC Marks 30 Years of Connecting Global Thinkers

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026.

Since opening in 1996, Australia’s largest convention and exhibition venue has brought together the world’s forward thinkers, hosting more than 20,000 events ranging from international summits and global congresses to community celebrations, cultural gatherings and immersive art experiences.

Across three decades, the venue has welcomed prominent world leaders and cultural figures including Bill and Hilary Clinton, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jane Fonda and Carole King.

Beyond its role as an events venue, MCEC has also supported emergency response efforts, serving as a coordination hub during major crises such as the 2020 bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The centre has been a significant driver of economic activity and knowledge exchange, hosting landmark events including the World AIDS Conference in 2014 and the world’s first Malaria World Congress in 2018. Its impact continues to expand: in 2024/25 alone, the venue welcomed more than 800,000 delegates and generated $686 million in economic impact for the Victorian economy.

Chief Executive of MCEC and Nyaal Banyul, Natalie O’Brien AM, said, “over the past 30 years, this venue has welcomed some of the world’s most preeminent forward thinkers, while at the same time showcasing Melbourne’s incredible culture.

“MCEC is woven into the fabric of Victoria and has evolved to become a core part of Melbourne’s identity.”
 

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The venue’s performance continues to be recognised at the Victorian Tourism Awards, where it has been named the top Business Event Venue for the past three consecutive years.

Alongside its economic contribution, MCEC maintains a strong commitment to community support, including hosting the annual Good Friday Appeal for eleven years.

Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive, Julia Swanson, says “MCB and MCEC have shared a successful partnership for thirty years. This strong collaboration over three decades has resulted in economic growth for Melbourne and Victoria as well as a legacy of business events that have created lasting change.

Together, we have strengthened Melbourne’s reputation as a leading global destination for business events.”

MCEC is marking the milestone alongside Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB), which celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2026. Since its founding in 1966, MCB has grown alongside a city that has developed into a globally recognised business events destination.

With a long-standing partnership and shared history of collaboration, MCEC and MCB continue working together to position Melbourne on the world stage for major events while driving economic growth across Victoria.

Published by Meeting Media Company, the publisher of Headquarters Magazine (HQ) – a leading international publication based in Brussels, serving the global MICE industry and association community.