Business and convention arrivals to Australia are experiencing continued growth despite the strong Australian dollar, with industry experts predicting another solid year ahead.
While economic uncertainty continues across the globe, recent figures by Business Events Australia show a 10% year on year increase in business and convention arrivals at the end of May 2011.
Driven by strong increases from India and Asia arrivals, and encouraging growth from the US and the UK, Asia-Pacific Incentives & Meetings Expo (AIME) event director Sally de Swart says the figures are a testament to the strength of the Australian meetings and incentives industry.
"The meetings and incentives industry in Australia is going from strength-to-strength," she told The Nibbler. "The domestic MICE industry remains sturdy and for meetings and incentives, ‘Brand Australia’ will continue to attract solid business."
De Swart coined India and China as key growth markets, but remained confident growth from the US, UK, Germany and Canada would continue.
“Australia has a strong aspirational appeal and this, combined with excellent facilities and inspiring attractions make it a very appealing destination for meetings and events,” de Swart said. "Australia is also well-positioned in the Asia-Pacific region, where growing markets are creating more opportunities for the industry."
With large cities often boasting state-of-the art facilities and attractive tourism options, de Swart expects Sydney and Melbourne to attract the most business events, but says Brisbane and Cairns will do well because of their close proximity to the beach. Perth is also well positioned for Asian travellers, de Swart added.
