The Association of Australian Convention Bureaux (AACB) welcomes the changes to the Business Events Bid Fund Program announced today by Senator the Hon Simon Birmingham, Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment.
We commend Minister Birmingham and Tourism Australia for consulting with AACB, its members and the broader business events industry, and implementing changes that will make the program more accessible to regional Australia.
AACB CEO, Andrew Hiebl said, “This is a win for many of the AACB’s member convention bureaux which will result in increased international bid wins and drive high yield visitation for smaller destinations, generating jobs across the tourism and events sector including venues, accommodation and restaurants.”
AACB President, Michael Matthews said, “The success of the bid fund to date, is evident that a future dedicated and increased bid fund is a good strategy for Australia to improve our international competitiveness. The business events market is dynamic and growing globally and we need to remain ahead of the game against fierce competition within our region.”
“Ernst & Young indicate that the business events industry contributes $30 billion in direct expenditure and over 193,000 direct jobs each year. The future success of Australia’s business events industry will boost trade and investment, support the knowledge economy, and help local industries showcase their capabilities on the world stage.”
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