VCET Delivers Year of Impact

MCEC

Convention and Event Trust (VCET), operators of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre (Nyaal Banyul), released its Annual Report and Impact Report for the 2024-25 financial year.

Over the past year, MCEC hosted 714 events and welcomed 3.2 million visitors, reflecting its strong economic, social and environmental contribution to Victoria.

MCEC’s industry leadership was also recognised with Best Business Event Venue honours at the Victorian Tourism Awards and the Australian Business Event Association Awards.

From global summits to local celebrations, events hosted at MCEC fostered collaboration, innovation and connection, boosting Victoria’s position as a destination for world-class events.

With the opening of Nyaal Banyul on track for mid-2026, VCET continued to advance preparation for its expansion into regional Victoria. This includes the growth of its Geelong-based team and a strong pipeline of event interest spanning medical, education, business and recreation industries.

Sustainability remained central to VCET’s approach, highlighted by the launch of MCEC’s Net Zero Roadmap, a clear pathway to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and one of the first released by any convention centre in Australia.

Throughout the year, MCEC’s waste diversion and donation programs were expanded, including 50,500 kg of organic material diverted from landfill and 3,852 kg of food donated to leading food rescue organisation, OzHarvest. These efforts contributed significantly to MCEC maintaining its EarthCheck Platinum certification in 2024, one of only six convention centres globally to achieve this status.

Building on a strong commitment to community, MCEC proudly supported the Good Friday Appeal Kids Day Out, raising a remarkable $23 million for the Royal Children’s Hospital. MCEC’s team played its part by selling 3,000 hot cross buns and 1,200 house-made ice creams – donating every dollar of profit straight to the appeal.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos said  “Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre plays a pivotal role in Victoria’s economic success. Banyul will also build on Victoria’s global appeal to host events, supporting our visitor economy, creating jobs and backing local businesses.”

Chief Executive Natalie O’Brien AM said “This year has shown the incredible impact VCET can have across Victoria, supporting local businesses and communities while welcoming new standards for sustainability and inclusion. As we look ahead to the opening of Nyaal Banyul, we’re excited to continue delivering exceptional experiences for our customers while leading positive change across our industry.”

View the Annual Report and Impact Report here.

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