EEAA WELCOMES NEWS OF MCEC EXPANSION

By Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia, 24 October, 2014

MEDIA RELEASE

24 October 2014

EEAA WELCOMES NEWS OF MCEC EXPANSION

The Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia (EEAA) has welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement today confirming the expansion of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC).

EEAA Chief Executive, Joyce DiMascio, said the Association has been campaigning for several years to Government for the approval of MCEC’s proposal to expand the South Wharf precinct footprint to include multi-purpose convention and exhibition facilities.

"As recently as last week, we raised this again with Premier Denis Napthine urging him to make the commitment to the expansion.

“The approval is good news for industry with many EEAA Member events at capacity with no room to grow.

“This decision will enable the continued growth of the Exhibition and Event Industry in Victoria.”

Ms DiMascio said EEAA and Audited Media Association of Australia (AMAA) data shows that exhibitions stimulate incremental visitation to Victoria from visitors outside the state and overseas.

“In Victoria, some shows attract up to 44% of visitors from outside the state.

“Exhibitions generate employment, economic development and trade as well as stimulate the economy.

“This expansion will ensure Melbourne can continue to attract new events and allow the footprint of existing events to grow.

“We commend this decision and look forward to further news about the expansion.” Ms DiMascio said.

ENDS/

Source: Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia