Main image: Federation Square, Melbourne's meeting place

After a global hiatus, MICE planners are looking to make their next major event or conference one to remember. And with international events taking years of preparation, now is the time to start considering your next destination. Whenever the time is right, Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) is here to help you plan your future conference in unforgettable Melbourne – read on to find out how.

1. MCB can help you plan safe conferences during uncertain times 

The effectiveness of Australia’s coronavirus response has earned plaudits worldwide. As we begin to emerge from the pandemic, helping clients navigate the challenges presented by COVID-19 is MCB’s top priority. Its Safe Events Melbourne microsite can help you plan your next event in Melbourne with total confidence. It has all the resources and links you'll need, including FAQs about coronavirus, Smart Traveller advice from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and the latest from the Department of Health and Business Events Australia.

While travel is still limited, MCB has developed alternative resources to ensure clients can keep planning their meetings, including virtual site visits, a delegate destination hub, training webinars and virtual-reality tours of Melbourne, to give a taste of this fantastic city. 

2. MCB goes the extra mile to make your event a success (and help you pay for it!)

Working closely with you in the lead up to, during and post your MICE event, the MCB team can provide a suite of services to ensure the planning process is smooth and your event attracts the maximum number of delegates. These include:

• Financial support for your event, including upfront cash payments from the State Government of Victoria, payable before the meeting commences, to minimise any financial risk. Tourism Australia’s Business Events Australia Bid Fund Program also offers funding at the bidding stage to offset event costs.

• Personalised bespoke incentive programmes to accommodate valued groups of any size.

• Introductions to Victoria state government departments, ministers and trade and investment offices in 12 international locations.

• A dedicated Convention Servicing department providing bespoke, end-to-end event support.

• Strong support from local industry and academia.

• A commitment to making events affordable and accessible for all delegates. MCB can offer a number of benefits including travel grants, discounted airfares and accommodation and free public transport. 

3. You’ll be staying in one of Australia’s most welcoming cities 

Melbourne is a vibrant, well-connected and welcoming destination, offering unique and memorable experiences to accommodate every group. The city leads the way in events, arts, sport and infrastructure, with a rich, multicultural history. It’s also a well-connected, accessible destination, making it easy and enjoyable for delegates to travel in and around the city.

A strong performer across many fields, Melbourne continues to attract great minds who collaborate, innovate and inspire to deliver success. Its lively culture can be experienced year-round on the city’s streets and lanes, in bars and cafes, and at numerous festivals, exhibitions, museums and galleries.

Then there’s the city’s world-class food and wine scene: renowned as foodie haven, Melbourne offers a myriad restaurants, food tours and tasting experiences to entice any delegate.

Further afield, Victoria offers an abundance of immersive, unforgettable experiences within an easy drive of Melbourne. From wineries, wellness retreats and stunning coastal scenery to rainforests, waterfalls and wildlife encounters, there’s plenty to see and do for groups of all sizes. 

4. It’s Australia’s leading destination for conferencing and events

Melbourne boasts the country’s highest concentration of conference facilities, conveniently located in the heart of the city. Its convention district offers more than 197,000 square metres of conference space, the pinnacle of which is the impressive Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC).

With over 80 unique venues in the city centre alone, groups are spoilt for choice when it comes to venues. You’ll find stunning waterfront locations, spectacular skyline views and delightful outdoor spaces, all paired with the very best cuisine, entertainment and high-quality service. To explore what’s on offer, try MCB’s supplier search.

5. There’s no shortage of top-notch accommodation in Melbourne

From comfortable, fully equipped business hotels to five-star luxury, a variety of accommodation is readily available in Melbourne and its immediate surrounds, where delegates can rejuvenate and rest in style.

All the leading international hotel chains you’d expect are represented in the city, including AccorHotels, Hyatt, Hilton, Westin, Marriott, Sofitel, Novotel and Crown – ranging from three-and-a-half to five-star properties.

There’s also a wealth of boutique-style hotels for delegates looking for something a bit special during their Melbourne stay. You’ll find luxury décor and unique designs, alongside a distinct local flavour and a warm Aussie welcome.

Whatever you’re looking for, when Melbourne plays host to your conference, corporate event or incentive group, you’ll benefit from MCB’s wealth of experience, world-class facilities and collaborative network of suppliers – as well as the team’s passion and dedication to making every event a success.