The Gold Coast in Australia has reported a positive upward trend in association meetings, with latest figures revealing a 19 per cent increase for the past year until June 30, 2018.
Data compiled for the Queensland Business Events Survey indicated that 313 associations met on the Gold Coast in the last financial year, up significantly from the 263 conferences recorded in the previous 12 months.
Associations which recently selected the Gold Coast to host their conference include the Australian Archaeological Association (400 delegates in 2019); National Franchise Convention (500 delegates in 2019); 9th World Rett Syndrome Congress (350 delegates in 2020); and 28th World Congress for Medical Law (400 delegates in 2022).
The positive results look set to continue, with conferences confirmed in recent months representing an estimated economic impact of over A$3.5 million (US$2.5 million) for the Gold Coast.
Anna Case, executive director of Gold Coast Business Events, pointed out that the destination’s diverse offerings, professional meeting venues and warm hospitality makes an appealing case to associations.
