The new report covers MCEC’s sustainability strategy, its community partnerships, its inclusion and diversity strategic framework and the economic impact of the events hosted at the venue.
Amongst achievements in the last financial year, the centre generated more than $805 million in economic impact for Melbourne and Victoria, made in-kind donations worth more than $2.2 million to charities and community organisations and appointed its first inclusion and diversity advisor. The centre has also reached 97 in-state procurement.
“As a major public asset and a leader in the events industry, MCEC can drive environmental change, amplify social impact through partnerships and inclusion strategies, and maximise our economic contribution through the events we host,” said MCEC chief executive Natalie O’Brien AM.
“In 2022-23, we focused on some important projects to help achieve our sustainability, inclusion and social impact goals. We launched our Inclusion and Diversity Strategic Framework, started our Reconciliation Action Plan journey, launched a reusable coffee cup program and continued our support for prominent community organisations like OzHarvest and Yarra Riverkeeper Association. We aim to further our impact in Geelong/Dijlang with Nyaal Banyul,” she said.
MCEC’s team will also operate the new Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre when it opens in 2026. The new centre received the name Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre earlier in 2023, as a gift from the local Waddawurrung Traditional Owners.
The Melbourne venue also recently achieved platinum status with EarthCheck, indicating 10 years of continual environmental improvements. The centre has already exceeded its carbon emissions target set for 2023 – hitting a 19 per cent reduction in carbon emissions compared to 2019 – although this was actually achieved during the 2021-2022 financial year.
“MCEC has been benchmarking with EarthCheck since 2009 and this Platinum Certification recognises our substantial efforts in reducing our environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices within the events industry,” said MCEC’s sustainability manager, Samantha Ferrier.
“Initiatives like our reusable coffee cup program, which prevented the use of hundreds of thousands of single use coffee cups last financial year, highlight our ongoing commitment to improving practices and finding new ways to reduce our impact on the environment.”
Recognising the importance of getting clients on board for the impact journey, MCEC has also been increasing its resources on this front, including releasing a digital positive impact guide for organisers in August.
“We know many of our customers share our goals of sustainability and corporate social responsibility,” said MCEC’s head of advocacy, impact and reputation, Rohan Astley.
“That’s why we provide resources to help them implement environmentally and socially conscious practices into their events. By working together, we can not only leave a lasting impression on event attendees, but also create a more sustainable future for the event industry and a positive impact for our community.”
