Event organisers encouraged to host events in regional Victoria

Event organisers are being encouraged to host events in regional Victoria with the state government opening the Regional Business Events Program aimed at boosting local tourism with benefits flowing to local communities.

The program aims to bring conferences, exhibitions, meetings, seminars, and international travel groups to regional Victoria – with funding available to offset costs such as accommodation, venue hire, transport, and marketing.

The program, delivered by Business Events Victoria and the Melbourne Convention Bureau, has two funding streams available – the International Incentives Event Program and the National Business Events Program.

Under the new International Incentives Event Program, event planners can receive $150 per delegate for each night they stay in regional Victoria.

The National Business Events Program offers grants of up to $80 per delegate (up to a maximum of $40,000) for eligible event organisers to host new business events across regional Victoria.

The Regional Business Events Program is part of the $170 million Regional Tourism and Events Fund that will ensure our regional tourism offering continues to be the very best by supporting new events and attractions that bring more people to our regions.

Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events notes “these grants are providing a real opportunity for event organisers to host one-of-a-kind experiences in some of Victoria’s most beautiful towns.

“Events, conferences and attractions boost regional tourism, back local businesses and create new job opportunities in our regions – while also giving people the chance to experience new parts of our great state.”

Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive Julia Swanson shared “the International Incentive Events Program marks a first for regional Victoria, enhancing our state’s allure for international incentive groups.”

Business Events Victoria General Manager Chris Porter added “Business Events Victoria’s focus is on attracting national conferences to regional destinations across the state that align with key regional industries. This funding will go a long way to further encourage and support these important events for Victoria.”

For more information about the program, how to apply and eligibility details, visit businesseventsvictoria.com or melbournecb.com.au.