The hotel is being privately funded by Plenary Group, who is also leading the Plenary Conventions consortium responsible for developing the wider convention centre precinct.
The total value of development in the precinct is $449 million, with the Victorian Government contributing $416.1 million, $30 million coming from the federal government and the City of Greater Geelong funding a further $3 million, alongside Plenary Conventions’ $120 million hotel investment.
“Our significant investment in the hotel and retail precinct is a vote of confidence by the private sector in Geelong and its economic foundations,” said Plenary’s chief investment officer, Paul Crowe.
“This hotel will be the biggest and best in the region and one that will mark the next phase of Geelong’s waterfront revitalisation.
“In Crowne Plaza, we are bringing a world-renowned hotel brand to one of the best locations in Geelong.
“The hotel and retail offerings throughout the precinct will attract people from around the world. One highlight will be the public rooftop bar available for locals and visitors to enjoy some of the best views in Geelong.
“Our major investment backs the future of Geelong as the beating heart of some of the greatest tourism attractions in Australia including the wine and produce coming out of the Bellarine Peninsula, world-class sporting facilities and major events, the Surf Coast and the Great Ocean Road.”
The 200-room hotel will sit alongside the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, which is set to open in July 2026, offering a 1,000-seat theatre and 1,974m2 of exhibition space.
The centre will be operated by the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust, which also operates the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
