Program finalised for 29th Asia-Pacific Venue Industry Congress

The 29th Asia-Pacific Venue Industry Congress, to be held from 30th May to 1st June 2022 at ICC Sydney, is shaping up to be the most significant venue industry event of the last three years.

The event will see delegates from Australia, New Zealand, and the Asia-Pacific region join to expand their industry knowledge, reconnect with their peers and explore the latest innovations within the venue industry.

Opening night is looking to be an exceptional evening kick started by Master of Ceremonies, Jarrod Walsh, a Welcome to Country performance from Matthew Doyle, and opening remarks from VMA President, Leighton Wood.

The opening evening education highlights include a keynote address from Sydney Olympics bid supremo, Rod McGeoch AO (Deputy Chair; Sydney Cricket Ground and Sports Ground Trust and Venues NSW), who will explore how venues can best leverage major sporting events like the 2026 Victorian Commonwealth Games and Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.

The second keynote speaker is Commissioner Karen Webb (NSW Police Commissioner), who will share her journey to becoming the first woman to hold the position of Commissioner in NSW and discuss insights into relationships between the police force and venues, as well as common challenges.

The educational program at Congress will explore a variety of industry related topics.  There is an incredible line up of speakers with 17 educational sessions focusing on a variety of industry-related topics that are beneficial to venue industry professionals and industry suppliers.

Educational highlights include;

• Mental fitness and social connection

• Ticketing strategies

• Digital to Dollars - connecting with your fans

• The Future with COVID

• Promoters Panel

• Regional Venues

• Staff retention and engagement

• Value through diversity and inclusion

• Venue Accessibility

• Women's World Cups Down Under

• Cyber Security

• Sustainability

• Catering

• Leadership

VMA Chief Executive Michael Brierley notes “with this year’s theme being to reconnect, revitalise and restart, the VMA is excited to once again bring together members, delegates, and the industry from the Asia-Pacific region to network, learn and celebrate. This year’s Congress event is unlike any other we have held in that it showcases our industry’s resilience and confidence in our future.”

For the full program of sessions, speakers and events visit the 2022 Congress website