Australia/NZ Supplement March/April 2022 | Page 3

Introduction

A big welcome awaits in Australia

Australia is excited to welcome back international business events , says Tourism Australia executive , general manager of commercial and business events Australia , Robin Mack .
rom 21 February , Australia will reopen its borders and welcome back fully vaccinated travellers quarantinefree . With this being a significant step in rebuilding visitation from international business events delegates , I have big hopes for what 2022 will bring .
At Business Events Australia , we are elated by the news and have already begun activating our reopening strategy to optimally position Australia and support fast track recovery . We will increase our focus on conversion driving activity to capitalise on short- to mid-term business , and work to position Australia for long term growth , making sure prospective customers know we ’ re open and ready to welcome delegates back to enjoy our exceptional destinations , world-class venues and unique experiences .
During the pandemic we have welcomed a range of new product that is ready to be experienced , including new venues such as CENTREPIECE at Melbourne Park , which spans over 4,500sqm across three levels ; a wealth of new and renovated accommodation , including the five-star Sofitel Adelaide and Dorsett Gold Coast ; as well as numerous unique Australian experiences including exploring the Great Barrier Reef with a local Indigenous guide with Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel tours .
Australia ’ s business events industry is primed and ready . It has demonstrated resilience beyond compare and has navigated each challenge that has been thrown in its way with the same precision and dedication that goes into delivering the exceptional business events that the industry is known for .
In fact , Australia ’ s business events industry has been delivering COVIDsafe business events throughout the pandemic , often with attendee numbers in the thousands . And this will continue into 2022 , with a raft of business events already confirmed in the calendar , including Tourism Australia ’ s own Destination Australia conference and Australian Tourism Exchange ( ATE ) 2022 .
We know from both our domestic and international research that
there is a real desire to get back to holding face-to-face events . And while hybrid events have their time and place , the business and innovative ideas that can be generated by people networking in person is truly irreplaceable .
Our international research also highlighted that Australia is seen as a highly desirable destination that has a strong reputation for business events facilities , world-class natural beauty and environments , a range of accommodation options and local attractions , clean cities and good infrastructure and an appealing climate .
For a personal introduction to our industry or the latest information on Australia ’ s continuing influx of new hotels , venue precincts and business events experiences , contact our head of distribution development and partnerships , Kelly Maynard , at kmaynard @ tourism . australia . com
I hope you are inspired by the stories and informatioin about Australia ’ s business events industry in this dedicated CMW supplement and are ready to start planning your next business event in Australia .
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