September 27, 2022 | By Joyce DiMascio
The Business Events Council of Australia (BECA) has called for industry input into a major review of its operations aimed at putting it – and the industry – on a stronger footing for the future.
The organisation, which is constrained by its resources, is exploring new business models so it can better represent the industry.
BECA wants a to create a well-resourced organisation to deliver the research, advocacy and training essential to the industry’s growth.
It says the pandemic posed challenges for the organisation and it now wants to ensure its future sustainability so that it “continue its remit to advocate for business events and deliver on industry priorities”.
Looking for a new model
BECA says the proposed new organisation would be able to deliver more value for all members of the business events industry and champion inclusivity for the various segments of business events – including large and small operators across the sector’s supply chain.
It has engaged Melbourne-based consultancy, ODIN360, to explore organisational models that could shore up BECA’s footing so it can deliver what’s required of a peak body.
This week BECA told the industry that the first phase of this project had been completed and an interim report and recommendations had been delivered to the BECA board.
While the first phase involved extensive consultation with key representatives, it is now seeking to engage the wider community to give the industry a bigger say.
BECA independent chair Dr Leo Jago said feedback from the business events industry signalled the need for a fully resourced peak industry association.
“The global pandemic challenged Australia’s business events industry and now is the right time to look at what the sector needs as a whole to strive for growth across the next decade and beyond, with a focus on research, advocacy and professional development,” he said.
Industry feedback sought
Industry operators of all sizes are encouraged to have their say by completing a five-minute survey by October 14.
It is expected that ODIN360’s final report will be presented to the BECA board by the end of the year.
BECA provides an umbrella structure for the industry’s various associations including the Association of Australian Convention Bureaux, the Australian Convention Centres Group, the Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia, Meetings and Events Australia, the Professional Conference Organisers Association and the International Convention and Congress Association Australian Chapter.
