Victoria counts MCEC expansion into state budget

THE Victorian state government has cemented the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre’s (MCEC) growth plans with the announcement of up to A$210 million (US$167.6 million) as part of the 2015-2016 state budget.

MCEC has turned away at least 20 per cent of business opportunities over the last three years due to the lack of available space, and the news has been soundly welcome by the team.

Chief executive Peter King said in a press release: “Melbourne has led the growth of the business events industry globally for the last decade and it’s wonderful to see the government investing in this lucrative and important sector.

“MCEC’s expansion will significantly expand the South Wharf precinct footprint to offer a range of flexible spaces to meet the changing needs of the business events industry, address global competition and ensure we retain our position as Australia’s number one business events destination.”

Victoria had last October proposed an expansion of the venue including new retail space, additional car parks, hotel accommodation and multi-purpose convention and exhibition facilities.

The second phase of the facility’s planned development will ensure MCEC remains Australia’s largest convention and exhibition space.

According to King, about A$580 million of economic contribution is generated by MCEC annually.

When expansion works are completed, MCEC is anticipated to bring in A$175 million more each year, welcome 74,000 more international visitors and create hundreds of jobs.

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