Conventions' rich rewards
The Adelaide Convention Centre has generated more than $570 million in economic benefits for South Australia since opening in 1987, according to its annual report to Parliament.
In 2005-06, it also achieved its highest ever turnover of $24.3 million, from a record 690 events.
Chairman, Jane Jeffreys, says the Centre has hundreds of business relationships across the economic spectrum that directly and indirectly benefit the community. "Each time we hold an event - especially with a national or international audience - there is a spin-off for the local economy through spending on accommodation, shopping, restaurants, entertainment and myriad other services," she said.
However, Ms Jeffreys warned that competition in the conventions industry, particularly in Asia, was becoming increasingly fierce. "New centres have been built - and are being heavily promoted with big marketing budgets - in Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, and the next few years will see many more facilities open in China," she said.
Our key focus now is raising the profile of Adelaide as a conference destination and working with key players in the tourism and hospitality sectors to pool resources and market collectively.
Further information: Janine Starkey, telephone (08) 8210 6701.
