Northern Territory emerges as a good venue for business events

The Northern Territory Government is helping local operators gain a competitive edge in the lucrative business events industry through special workshops being held in Darwin and Alice Springs this month.

“The Territory is a truly extraordinary meeting place with first class conference options and accommodation venues in idyllic locations. There’s no better destination for a business event,” Chief Minister Adam Giles said.

“Business events are estimated to inject $89 million into the Territory economy each year and we want local operators to have the best chance possible of securing a slice of this lucrative pie.

“Over the years ahead, the Territory economy is expected to tilt towards tourism and events like this will help the industry prepare for this change in strategic direction.”

The first ‘Generate and Deliver’ workshop was held at the Darwin Convention Centre earlier this week with a second event scheduled for the Alice Springs Convention Centre on Wednesday 27 May.

“The workshops are being conducted by the NT Convention Bureau and are aimed at equipping operators with the market insights necessary to win new corporate business,” Mr Giles said.

More than 75 local operators are expected to attend the two workshops including planners and delegates, venue and accommodation managers, tour guides and front-line staff.

“They will learn how they can become involved in trade initiatives, particularly those targeting the Territory’s Asian neighbours for business events,” Mr Giles said.

The NT Convention Bureau has partnered with the Department of Business to bring in Elizabeth Rich to facilitate the two workshops.

“Elizabeth Rich was the CEO for the Business Events Industry Council of Australia for 17 years and brings a wealth of industry knowledge to the table,” Mr Giles said.

The workshops will also involve presentations from the Australian Association of Convention Bureaux, Business Events Australia (a dedicated professional conference organiser), Darwin Convention Centre and Alice Springs Convention Centre.

Operators attending the events will also hear about support available through the Department of Business’ Business Growth Program.

The grant program offers reimbursements for businesses to engage professional advisors who work with you to develop your business in areas of need such as business performance, profitability, employment levels and market penetration. To see these and other grants the Department of Business has on offer visit the website.