ABEA and Business Events Australia invest in the next generation of industry leaders with 30 scholarships

ABEA CEO Melissa Brown 

The Australian Business Events Association (ABEA), in partnership with Tourism Australia’s dedicated business events unit, Business Events Australia (BEA), has launched the 2026 Leadership Development for Emerging Leaders Program, providing 30 sponsored scholarships to support the next generation of leaders across Australia's business events industry.

Delivered in partnership with Leading Well and Turnkey Event Solutions, the program is designed to help emerging leaders build the skills, mindset and confidence required to lead in an increasingly complex and fast-changing business environment.

Through BEA's support, 30 scholarships are available for ABEA members and business events professionals to partially support their participation and investment in the program, which combines face-to-face learning sessions, individual coaching and leadership development modules focused on mindset, communication, relationship building, wellbeing and systemic leadership principles. The program will be delivered in Sydney and Adelaide, with each intake limited to 15 participants to ensure maximum value and individualised support.

ABEA CEO Melissa Brown said investing in future leaders is critical to ensuring the long-term strength and sustainability of the industry.

"ABEA is committed to supporting our emerging leaders because they will be the driving force behind our industry in the years ahead. The business events sector continues to face challenges attracting, retaining and nurturing talent, making leadership development more important than ever. We're grateful for Business Events Australia’s support in helping us invest in the next generation of industry leaders," said Brown.

Tourism Australia’s Executive General Manager Industry & Business Events, Sally Cope said strong sector leadership plays an important role in Australia's continued success as a world-class business events destination.

Sally Cope

"People are at the heart of every successful business event in Australia, and supporting emerging leaders is critical to ensuring our industry continues to innovate, grow and compete on the global stage.”

The program will be led by Leading Well Executive Coach Dan Londero and will explore leadership through the lenses of mindset and wellbeing; helping participants develop the skills required to lead both themselves and others. The topics include communication, relationship building, feedback, leadership performance and navigating complexity in modern workplaces.

Successful participants will also receive individual coaching and be recognised during the ABEA Conference & Awards in December 2026.

The initiative complements BEA's broader support of industry development and future talent, including its sponsorship of the Future Leaders Award in the Australian Business Events Awards.

Applications for the 2026 Leadership Development for Emerging Leaders Program are now open.

The program will be delivered in Sydney on 18 and 19 August 2026 and Adelaide on 30 November and 1 December 2026 (leading into the ABEA Conference), with a one-on-one coaching session included following completion of the face-to-face program.

For more information and applications:
https://tinyurl.com/Sydney-Leading-Well
https://tinyurl.com/Adelaide-Leading-Well

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Australia’s Premier Business Events Awards Return for 2026 with Exciting New Category

Celebrating Excellence Across Australia’s Business Events Industry

Australia’s thriving business events sector is preparing for one of its most anticipated annual celebrations, with the Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) officially opening entries for the Australian Business Events Awards 2026.

Recognised as one of the most prestigious honours in the Australian meetings, incentives, conferences and events industry, the awards showcase excellence, innovation and leadership across the nation’s diverse business events landscape. From event organisers and convention centres to destinations, suppliers, technology providers and emerging professionals, the program highlights the outstanding achievements that help position Australia as a world-class business events destination.

For industry professionals, event planners and business tourism stakeholders, the awards provide an opportunity to gain national recognition while celebrating the creativity and expertise driving the sector forward.

New Best Corporate Event Category Introduced

One of the most significant developments for 2026 is the introduction of the Best Corporate Event category.

Created in direct response to industry feedback, this new award recognises excellence in corporate-led events including company conferences, leadership summits, product launches, corporate awards programs and major organisational gatherings.

The addition broadens participation opportunities and reflects the increasing importance of corporate events within Australia’s business events ecosystem. It also allows more organisations to showcase innovative event strategies that deliver meaningful outcomes for employees, clients and stakeholders.

Industry Feedback Shapes Program Improvements

The 2026 awards program has undergone a comprehensive review to ensure it remains relevant, transparent and reflective of the evolving business events industry.

ABEA has refined category criteria across the entire awards platform, introducing clearer definitions, more direct questions and a stronger focus on measurable outcomes. These improvements aim to provide entrants with greater clarity while ensuring consistency throughout the judging process.

The enhancements also make it easier for organisations to demonstrate their achievements and highlight the tangible impact of their events, products and services.

Refined Focus on Incentive Events

  Another important update for 2026 involves the Best Incentive Event category.

ABEA has strengthened the category by introducing a clearer definition of incentive programs as performance-enhancement initiatives linked to measurable workplace outcomes. The revision reinforces the distinction between incentive travel programs and other event formats, ensuring greater integrity and consistency during judging.

This refinement reflects the growing recognition of incentive programs as powerful business tools that drive employee engagement, productivity and organisational success.

Honouring Industry Leaders Through Peer Recognition

The highly respected Contribution to Industry Award has also received an important update.

Widely regarded as ABEA’s highest individual honour, the award is now free to enter and can no longer be self-nominated. The revised approach reinforces its status as a true peer-recognition accolade, celebrating individuals whose dedication, leadership and long-term service have made a significant contribution to Australia's business events industry.

The change ensures that recipients are recognised by their colleagues and peers for their lasting impact on the sector.

Recognising the People Behind Australia’s Success

ABEA Chief Executive Officer Melissa Brown said the updates reflect the association’s commitment to listening to industry members and ensuring the awards continue to evolve alongside the sector.

According to Brown, recognition plays a vital role in highlighting the exceptional work being delivered throughout the industry while encouraging innovation, continuous improvement and excellence.

The awards also help demonstrate the significant economic and social value that business events bring to destinations, businesses and communities across Australia.

A Showcase of Industry Excellence

The 2026 Australian Business Events Awards feature 24 categories covering events, venues, products, initiatives, teams and individual achievement.

Winners will be announced during the Australian Business Events Awards Gala on 2 December 2026 at the renowned Adelaide Convention Centre as part of the ABEA Conference & Awards program.

For many organisations, receiving an Australian Business Events Award represents one of the industry's highest achievements and serves as a benchmark for excellence throughout the sector.

Entry Information

Entries for the Australian Business Events Awards 2026 are now open and close at 5:00pm AEDT on Monday 20 October 2026.

The awards portal is proudly supported by EventsAir.

For award categories, eligibility criteria and entry details, visit:  https://conferenceandawards.abea.org.au/awards

For more information about the association, visit: https://www.abea.org.au

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Global Tensions, Local Impact: How the Iran Conflict Is Reshaping Australia’s Business Events Sector

As global uncertainty continues to ripple across industries, Australia’s business events sector is feeling the growing impact of the ongoing Iran conflict. From rising operational costs to shifting travel patterns, the effects are being closely monitored by industry leaders and organisations such as the Australian Business Events Association.

With the sector playing a vital role in the national visitor economy, calls are now intensifying for coordinated action, stronger advocacy, and targeted government support.

A Sector Under Pressure

The business events industry, which includes conferences, exhibitions, and corporate gatherings, is facing mounting challenges linked to global instability. Concerns around delegate attendance, reduced airline capacity, and fluctuating travel demand are beginning to affect event planning across Australia.

Industry stakeholders report that uncertainty is influencing decision-making at every level, from international speaker participation to overall event feasibility.

Rising Costs and Operational Challenges

Buffet

One of the most immediate impacts has been the increase in operational costs. Rising fuel prices and freight expenses are driving up the cost of transporting goods and services, while food and beverage prices continue to climb.

Event organisers are responding by building larger financial buffers, sourcing supplies earlier, and exploring alternative solutions to mitigate risks. These adjustments, while necessary, are placing additional pressure on already tight event budgets.

Industry Collaboration and Government Engagement

In response to these challenges, the Australian Business Events Association is actively working with government representatives, including Don Farrell and Nita Green, to ensure the sector’s concerns are heard.

Collaboration with peak bodies such as the Australian Airports Association, Tourism & Transport Forum Australia, and the Australian Tourism Export Council is helping to unify the industry’s voice and strengthen advocacy efforts.

By presenting clear, evidence-based insights, the sector aims to secure practical solutions that address both immediate pressures and long-term resilience.

Why Business Events Matter More Than Ever

Business events are a cornerstone of Australia’s visitor economy, supporting thousands of small businesses and generating significant economic activity. Beyond financial contributions, they foster knowledge exchange, innovation, and international collaboration.

In times of global uncertainty, maintaining a strong and competitive business events sector is essential for Australia’s economic recovery and global positioning.

A Call for Evidence and Action

The Australian Business Events Association is urging industry stakeholders to share real-world examples of how the Iran conflict is affecting their operations. This data will play a critical role in shaping advocacy efforts and identifying the types of government support needed.

By working together and presenting a unified voice, the sector can better navigate current challenges and build a more resilient future.

Looking Ahead

While the pressures are significant, the business events industry has demonstrated resilience in the past. Lessons learned from previous global disruptions continue to guide the sector as it adapts to new challenges.

With strong collaboration, strategic planning, and targeted support, Australia’s business events sector can continue to thrive, even in an uncertain global landscape.

Learn More About the Industry

For updates and industry insights, visit: https://www.abea.com.au/

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Australia’s Business Events Boom: Why Future Wins Depend on Strategic Investment

Australian Business Events Association

Australia’s global reputation as a premier destination for international business events is stronger than ever. From world-class convention centres to vibrant cities and regional hubs, the country continues to attract high-value conferences and exhibitions that drive economic growth and global collaboration.

However, new insights reveal that while the current pipeline is impressive, future success may depend on increased investment and stronger support to remain competitive on the world stage.

A Strong Pipeline of Global Events

According to new data from the Australian Business Events Association, Australia has secured 366 international business events for the years ahead. These events represent 1,791 event days and more than 1.2 million delegate days, delivering an estimated $743.5 million in delegate spend.

The findings, published in the International Forward Calendar 2026, highlight the scale and significance of the sector. These events are not only filling venues across major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, but are also supporting regional economies and supply chains nationwide.

More Than Tourism: A Powerful Economic Driver

Business Events 

International business events deliver far more than visitor numbers. They attract global decision-makers, industry leaders and researchers, creating opportunities for trade, investment and knowledge exchange.

Data shows that international delegates spend significantly more than leisure travellers, reinforcing the value of the sector. In addition, 67 percent of confirmed conferences include trade and exhibition components, amplifying their commercial impact.

Key sectors such as healthcare, life sciences, and professional services dominate the current pipeline, helping position Australia as a hub for innovation and expertise.

The Role of the Bid Fund Program

Central to Australia’s success in securing these events is the Business Events Bid Fund Program, delivered through Tourism Australia.

This performance-based initiative provides targeted financial support to help Australia compete for major international events. Importantly, funding is only allocated once an event is successfully secured and delivered, making it a low-risk, high-return investment.

Between 2018 and 2025, the program generated a 53 to 1 return on investment, contributing $1.38 billion in economic value from 205 successful events. This demonstrates the program’s effectiveness in driving long-term economic benefits.

Global Competition Is Intensifying

Despite these strong results, Australia faces increasing competition from destinations such as Canada, New Zealand and Singapore, where governments are significantly increasing financial support to secure business events.

This growing disparity in funding is making it more difficult for Australia to win future bids. In some cases, major opportunities have already been lost due to uncompetitive support packages, resulting in millions of dollars in missed economic impact.

The challenge is clear: without stronger investment, Australia risks losing its competitive edge in a highly lucrative global market.

Long-Term Benefits for Cities and Regions

Business events are typically secured years in advance, meaning the economic benefits flow well into the future. These events support not only major venues and hotels but also small businesses, local suppliers and regional tourism operators.

A recent example is the International Astronautical Congress 2025, which delivered an estimated $47 million in economic impact and attracted delegates from 99 countries. This success highlights what can be achieved when strong bid support is in place.

The ripple effects extend far beyond the event itself, contributing to job creation, industry development and international collaboration.

Why Investment Today Shapes Tomorrow’s Success

Industry leaders emphasise that the Business Events Bid Fund Program is not a cost, but a strategic investment in Australia’s future. By attracting international events, the country brings in new revenue, strengthens global connections and showcases its capabilities on the world stage.

With a significant portion of the current pipeline linked to sectors such as healthcare and science, these events also play a critical role in advancing research, innovation and knowledge sharing.

Without continued and enhanced support, Australia risks falling behind competitors who are investing heavily to secure the next generation of global events.

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Australia’s business events sector stands at a pivotal moment. The current pipeline demonstrates strong global demand, but maintaining momentum will require a commitment to strategic investment and long-term planning.

As destinations around the world compete for high-value international events, Australia’s ability to match ambition with funding will determine whether it continues to lead or begins to lose ground in this vital sector.

For more information, visit:
Australian Business Events Association – https://www.abea.org.au/
Tourism Australia – https://www.australia.com

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AIME Crowned Australia’s Best Business Event as Momentum Builds for 2026

Australian Business Events Awards

The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event has cemented its position as the powerhouse of the business events industry, earning top honours at the Australian Business Events Association Awards. Named Best Event in 2025 and Best Trade Show in 2025, AIME continues to set the benchmark for excellence, innovation and global connection within the Asia Pacific meetings and incentives sector.

The dual awards recognise a year of exceptional growth and influence, as anticipation builds for what is shaping up to be AIME’s largest and most ambitious event yet in 2026.

Australia’s Leading Business Events Showcase

AIME is the premier platform connecting international and local buyers with world-class exhibitors from across Asia Pacific and beyond. The event has become a vital meeting point for decision-makers across incentives, meetings, exhibitions and corporate travel, creating opportunities that drive business growth and long-term partnerships.

The awards celebrate not only the scale of the event, but also its strategic impact on the global business events landscape. AIME’s ability to evolve with industry needs while maintaining strong commercial outcomes has positioned it as a must-attend trade show on the international calendar.

Industry Recognition at the Australian Business Events Awards

The Australian Business Events Awards 2025 were held in Melbourne on Thursday 4 December, bringing together leaders and innovators from across the sector. Hosted during the ABEA Conference at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the ceremony celebrated excellence across exhibitions, conferences, incentives, venues, teams, innovation and sustainability.

AIME’s recognition as both Best Event and Best Trade Show highlights the breadth of its contribution and the collaborative spirit that underpins its success. Event Director Silke Calder acknowledged the collective effort behind the achievement, noting that industry partnerships and a passionate team are central to AIME’s continued growth.

AIME 2026 Set to Break Records

Australian Business Events Awards

The award wins arrive as preparations accelerate for AIME 2026, scheduled to take place from 9–11 February 2026 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The three-day event is expected to be the biggest in the show’s history, reinforcing Melbourne’s status as a leading destination for major business events.

AIME 2026 will welcome more than 4,500 attendees, including over 700 exhibitors and 700 hosted buyers, with more than 20,000 pre-scheduled appointments planned. These figures underscore the event’s role as a high-value marketplace where meaningful connections translate into real business outcomes.

Leadership Driving Global Impact

Delivered by Event Director Silke Calder and the experienced team at Talk2 Media and Events on behalf of Melbourne Convention Bureau, AIME continues to evolve as an industry-led platform. Talk2 Media & Events CEO Matt Pearce highlighted that AIME’s success is driven by shared ownership within the business events community, where ideas are exchanged and professional growth is fuelled through collaboration.

As the industry looks ahead to 2026, AIME’s latest accolades confirm its standing as Australia’s flagship business events trade show and a vital connector for the global meetings and incentives sector.

Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME)
Website: https://aime.com.au

Australian Business Events Association
Website: https://www.abea.org.au

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
Website: https://www.mcec.com.au

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Partner with Impact: How ABEA Conference 2025 Shaped the Future of Australia’s Business Events

A National Gathering with Global Reach

The Australian Business Events Association opened its Conference & Awards 2025 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre with a clear and compelling message for the industry: Partner with Impact. Industry leaders, innovators and emerging talent gathered for a landmark event that focused on collaboration, shared knowledge and strengthening the future of Australia’s business events sector.

The conference was positioned as more than a professional gathering. It was framed as a catalyst for national and global connection, reinforcing the value of partnerships in building resilience, capability and long-term growth across the business events ecosystem.

Collaboration at the Core of the Program

The 2025 conference program integrated leading global voices through long-standing and newly formalised partnerships, reflecting the theme Partner with Impact in both structure and content. Education, capability building and sustainability were central pillars, with sessions designed to elevate best practice and inspire strategic collaboration across the sector.

ABEA Chief Executive Officer Melissa Brown said the theme reflected the current needs of the industry and the momentum created through ABEA’s expanding national and international partner network. She emphasised that collaboration was essential to lifting standards, expanding opportunities for members and creating meaningful, long-lasting impact.

The conference was positioned as a space for the industry to share perspectives, address challenges collectively and build connections that would shape the future of business events in Australia and beyond.

Strengthening Global Partnerships

ABEA Conference & Awards 2025

A key highlight of the opening day was the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding between ABEA and the Australian and New Zealand chapter of the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence. This agreement expanded ABEA’s reach into the global incentive travel sector, enhancing access to international networks, shared knowledge and collaboration opportunities for members working across incentive travel and corporate events.

The conference also reinforced ABEA’s growing engagement with the International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services, supporting capability development and sustainability outcomes for Australian exhibition and event suppliers.

Investing in Future Leaders

ABEA’s ongoing partnership with the International Congress and Convention Association continued to play a critical role in supporting emerging leaders within the industry. Through talent pathways and professional development initiatives, the collaboration focused on building future-ready professionals equipped to navigate a rapidly evolving global events landscape.

The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers also contributed expert content on global best practice for Professional Conference Organisers. This formed part of ABEA and IAPCO’s formal Memorandum of Understanding, ensuring Australian organisers remained aligned with international standards and innovation.

Positioning Australia on the World Stage

The 2025 conference followed a year of accelerated global engagement for ABEA and demonstrated its commitment to connecting Australia’s business events industry with world-class international expertise. By formalising strategic partnerships and fostering collaboration across borders, ABEA reinforced Australia’s reputation as a globally connected, forward-thinking business events destination.

For Melbourne visitors and delegates alike, the conference highlighted the city’s role as a hub for major business events and thought leadership, while underscoring the importance of partnerships in driving the industry’s future success.

Web contact details www.abea.org.au

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Celebrating Excellence: Winners of the Australian Business Events Awards 2025 announced

Australian Business Events Awards 2025 

The Australian business events community gathered in Melbourne last night for the Australian Business Events Awards 2025, celebrating the partnerships, achievements and industry leadership driving impact across the sector.

Hosted during the ABEA Conference at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the event recognised                                                                                                                                                           outstanding work across exhibitions, conferences, incentives, venues, teams, innovation and sustainability, showcasing the breadth and strength of Australia’s business events industry.

Peter King, Chair of the Australian Business Events Association (ABEA), said this year’s winners reflect the industry’s creativity, resilience and commitment to best practice.

“Our sector thrives on collaboration, expertise and a shared commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes. The award recipients represent the highest standards of professionalism and contribution across the industry.”

ABEA CEO, Melissa Brown, congratulated all finalists and winners, acknowledging the vital role they play in strengthening Australia’s position as a global leader in business events.

“Our industry is driven by passionate, capable professionals who continuously raise the bar for innovation, sustainability and excellence. These awards recognise their commitment and the partnerships that make our sector so influential. Congratulations to all who have contributed to another remarkable year.”

The 2025 Australian Business Events Association Award winners are:

 

Best Events

• Best Consumer Show
  Good Food and Wine Show Perth 2025 – Spectapular Events
• Best Trade Show
  AIME 2025 – Talk2 Media & Events
• Best Conference
  SXSW Sydney 2024
• Best Incentive Event
  Mega Lekker Escape – Forum Group Events & Marketing

Innovation & Creativity

• Best Stand or Show Feature
  All Energy Australia – Enphase Energy, RX Australia
• Best New Product or Service
  Reed Gift Fairs Exhibitor Nurturing Program, RX Australia
• Best Technology Innovation
  Facial Recognition – Lüp Events

Sustainability Awards

• Climate & Environment Initiative
  The Workshop @ ArchiBuild Expo – National Media
• Social & Cultural Initiative
  The 76th International Astronautical Congress 2025 – MCI Australia

Most Outstanding Marketing Campaign

• The 76th International Astronautical Congress 2025 – MCI Australia

Team & Industry Leadership

• Organiser / PCO Team of the Year – Forum Group Events & Marketing
• Venue Team of the Year – Adelaide Convention Centre
• Non-Hire Service / Supplier Team of the Year – AV1
• Hire Company Team of the Year – Moreton Hire
• Best Bureau Destination Marketing Team of the Year – Business Events Perth
• Future Leaders Award – Georgia Bivens, Business Events Perth
• Event Manager of the Year – Meg Watt, MCI Australia
• Operations Person of the Year – Brooke Perry, AV1
• Sales, Marketing or Business Development Person of the Year – Virginia Loyola, Arinex

Venue Awards

• Convention / Exhibition Centre of the Year – Adelaide Convention Centre
• Business Event Venue of the Year (Non-Convention Centre) – Melbourne Cricket Ground

Special Recognitions

• Best Event in 2025
  AIME 2025 – Talk2 Media & Events
• Best Product or Initiative in 2025
  The 76th International Astronautical Congress 2025 Sustainability Initiative – Social & Cultural – MCI Australia
• Best Team in 2025
  Adelaide Convention
• 
  

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Australian Business Events Association welcomes two new Directors to the Board

The Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Cindy-Lee Bakos from MCI Australia and Nick Jeffrey from the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, as the newest members of ABEA’s Board of Directors following ABEA’s AGM last night. They join Angie Becker from Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre who was re-elected onto the Board.

In addition, the ABEA Board has agreed to extend Peter King’s term as Chair for a further two years. Both Peter and Vice Chair, Matt Pearce from Talk2 Media, will continue in their roles, providing continuity and stability as ABEA advances its national agenda.

The Board also confirmed Andrew Crook from AV1 as the latest Emerging Leader Board Observer. His appointment reflects ABEA’s commitment to developing emerging leaders and ensuring the next generation has a seat at the national table.

These appointments mark a key step in strengthening ABEA’s governance and broadening the expertise guiding its national agenda.

ABEA Chair, Peter King, said in Cindy-Lee Bakos and Nick Jeffrey’s appointments, the Board is gaining leaders who understand both the commercial realities of the industry and the long-term strategic settings required to support its future.

“Cindy-Lee and Nick represent two crucial pillars of our sector: sophisticated event strategy and advisory, and world-class venue leadership. Their insight into how business events operate on the ground, as well as how they create value nationally, will be instrumental for us moving forward. Their appointment ensures our Board continues to reflect the breadth of the industry and positions us strongly to respond to emerging challenges and opportunities.

“Together the full ABEA Board will directly support our focus on data, capability building and national coordination. We are excited to welcome the full new team to the ABEA Board as we continue to do the important work in being the united voice for business events,” said King.

To view the full board and bios, please visit: www.abea.org.au/about/board-and-team/

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