Melbourne Convention Bureau welcomes back international incentive groups

Melbourne Convention Bureau has secured six international incentive groups from Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and New Zealand marking the first incentive group visits to Melbourne and regional Victoria since Australia’s international borders closed in 2020.  

Delegates will visit an array of attractions in Melbourne and regional Victoria including some of Victoria’s most popular regions, the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula, Phillip Island Nature Park for the Penguin Parade as well as a trip to enjoy the splendour of the Great Ocean Road.

The first influx this May sees 162 South East Asian and New Zealand delegates due to arrive filling close to 1,661 room nights and expected to inject more than $898,000 in economic contribution to Victoria’s economy.

Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) Chief Executive Julia Swanson said the arrival of these incentive groups is encouraging for the Victorian visitor economy following a lengthy hiatus of international travel.

“We’re thrilled to once again welcome back international corporate incentive groups - both large and small - to Melbourne. MCB works to boost hotel occupancy in the traditionally quiet shoulder periods with visitors staying mid-week,” said Swanson.

For Victorian regional tourism suppliers and local businesses, business events are a major driver of regional visitation and provide a substantial economic contribution enhancing local communities. Pre-pandemic, Melbourne attracted on average just over 100 incentive groups with approximately 55,000 international delegates each year spending on average $1019.00 per day, across accommodation, tourist attractions, local shops and cafes.

Swanson added “every incentive group secured by MCB visits regional Victoria. There is an abundance of experiences available all within a short drive from the city centre - from coastal attractions, wine and dine experiences to nature and adventure-based activities.

“Melbourne is the ideal city to host incentive groups and MCB excels in crafting bespoke itineraries designed to suit every group. If you want to take your corporate incentive activities to the next level, let us be your eyes and ears on the ground to help you get started.”