Since opening in late June of 1996, the convention centre in the tropical north of Queensland has generated $1.67 billion for the economy.
“Thirty years ago, backing a world-class convention centre in regional Australia was considered a bold gamble,” said Cairns Convention Centre’s general manager, Janet Hamilton.
“Today, the results speak for themselves.
“Business events visitors are among Australia’s highest-yield visitors, staying longer and spending more, creating sustained demand for hotels, restaurants, tour operators, transport providers and local businesses and supporting thousands of jobs across the visitor economy.
“The Cairns Convention Centre has become an economic catalyst, attracting conferences that bring delegates from Australia and around the world, investment, research collaboration and commercial opportunities to Tropical North Queensland,” said Hamilton.
“We’ve shown that regional destinations can compete on the global stage and deliver conferences that were once considered the exclusive domain of Australia’s capital cities.”
The centre completed a $176 million refurbishment and expansion in 2023, adding 10,500m2 of space, including a new third level, and enabling the venue to host simultaneous events.
“Our success has come from the entire destination working together, hotels, tourism operators, local businesses, government and the community united by a shared ambition to showcase Cairns to the world,” said Hamilton.
“The centre ensures future generations will continue to benefit from business events that strengthen our economy while bringing global expertise and new opportunities to Tropical North Queensland.
“I pay tribute to the previous leaders and employees who have worked at the centre over the past 30 years.
“I am also very proud of the current team of dedicated professionals who have helped build the centre’s reputation and consistently delivered exceptional experiences that keep delegates returning to Cairns,” said Hamilton.
The convention centre has been named the world’s best convention centre by the global convention centres association AIPC twice, in 2004 and 2014.
The venue’s impact is boosted by its work with regional suppliers – it sources from over 270 regional producers and suppliers.
