Australia’s domestic business events sector has secured more than A$1 billion (US$715.5 million) in delegate spending through 2033, according to the newly-released Domestic Forward Calendar 2026 by the Australian Business Events Association (ABEA).
Data compiled from convention bureaux across the country shows 806 domestic events confirmed from July 2026 onwards, spanning 3,031 event days and bringing over 451,000 delegates.
The events are projected to deliver A$952.7 million from domestic attendees and A$88.4 million from international attendees across 1.6 million total delegate days. Commercial integration remains strong, with 66 per cent of all future association conventions featuring a trade or exhibition component. Furthermore, financial incentives and business event packages were cited as the primary winning factor in 29 per cent of successful association bids.
Healthcare and Social Assistance leads all industry sectors, accounting for 37 per cent of secured domestic business events. The sector is expected to attract an estimated 142,800 professionals, including 9,143 thousand international delegates.
Melissa Brown, CEO of ABEA, said the results paint a positive picture for Australia’s domestic business events sector.
“It’s valuable and impressive to see the size and breadth of the domestic opportunity and to provide government with the insights needed to keep highlighting the value of business events for Australia.
“Business events generate significant economic value, but their impact extends well beyond delegate spend. They provide opportunities to transfer knowledge, support research collaboration, foster innovation and connect people and industries across the country.
“When a conference goes into a city, town or regional centre, it drives jobs, confidence and sharing. There is nothing as impactful as business events, and our contribution is significant.”
