Business Events Adelaide is on track for a record year, with mid-year sales figures surpassing 2023-4 results.
The bureau has confirmed more than $540 million worth of business events have been won in the first six months of the 2024-5 financial year.
The year-to-date total is headlined by the Asia-Pacific International Mining Exhibition (AIMEX), a multi-year agreement that will see five iterations of the event held at the Adelaide Showgrounds between 2025 and 2033.
Business Events Adelaide CEO Damien Kitto said there were a number of factors behind the success.
“Interest in Adelaide is currently high, and there is a real sense of positivity about what the city can offer business event organiser,” he said.
“Optimism around South Australia starts with the Malinauskas Government offering strong backing for bringing a greater number of business events to the state and a recognition of the economic tail that flows from them.
“Business events bring to the fore Adelaide’s key industry sectors that offer much sought-after technical expertise – notably in health and medical research, future energy solutions, AI and space technologies, defence and AgTech – and provide long-term commercial opportunities to SA business.”
Mr Kitto said affordability of the city was another strength. Recent data from STR highlights Adelaide is one of the most affordable capital cities in Australia, with a hotel room costing on average $75 a night less than in Sydney and $17 less than Perth.
“Adelaide has the global brands and high-quality venues expected of a modern city but has retained its boutique charm at a reasonable price. These factors combine to make Adelaide a compelling business event destination.”
Even with the success of the first six months, Mr Kitto believes there is a lot more room for growth.
“Particular areas of focus for this calendar year will be identifying more international opportunities, showcasing Adelaide’s world-leading innovation districts, and attracting a greater number of business events during winter months. Our members, especially smaller venues, are very keen for us to pursue this, and once again, Adelaide’s affordability and value for money will be pivotal in our approach.”
On the strong half-year, South Australian Treasurer Stephen Mullighan said it was pleasing to see such a significant surge in major organisations wanting to hold their business events in Adelaide.
Also read: Adelaide secures first-time win for Australia | Event Organisers