Melbourne has secured three major international association meetings – including the first World Prostate Cancer Congress - which could generate AUD $40m for the local economy.
Australia’s second biggest city had secured the rights to host the World Prostate Cancer Congress in 2013, the 26th International Joint Conference on Artificial Intelligence in 2017, and the 27th Congress of the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis two years later.
Minister for tourism and major events, Louise Asher, said: “Events of this standing are vital in putting Victoria on the map in terms of enhancing its reputation as a leader in medical research and innovation, and as a state attracting world-class business events.”
She said the three-day World Prostate Cancer Congress was expected to attract 1,000 delegates, and generate more than AUD $3m for the state of Victoria, the Artificial Intelligence meeting another AUD $7m and the Thrombosis and Haemostasis convention a whopping AUD $30m.
Keith Herdman, acting CEO of the Melbourne Convention + Visitors Bureau , added: “In hosting these events, Melbourne’s international reputation as a centre for excellence in medical research and education, and as a hub for information and communication technology, will be enhanced.”
The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) is hosting all three events.
Pictured: The MCEC
