ABEA and AIPC launch ANZ Academy for world – leading convention centre education

The International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC) and Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) have officially announced their partnership to deliver tailor-made leadership training program for convention centres from June 2025.

Ross Steele, CEO of Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre and AIPC Board Member, and Peter King, Chair of ABEA made the announcement at the AIPC@AIME summit.

The AIPC Academy, the flagship educational initiative, will make its debut in Australia as part of the strategic alliance between ABEA and AIPC.

Peter King said the business events community in Australia is the great benefactor of this partnership.

“As a former AIPC Board member, I’m thrilled we can bring this outstanding management program to the ANZ region, whilst removing a big part of the financial threshold for participation.

“It will be the first, but definitely not last outcome of the partnership between these two great associations.”

Ross Steele said: “Bringing the AIPC Academy to the region is an integral part of AIPC’s strategy to enhance engagement with convention centres in the region, while adapting the program to meet local needs. In 2025, we’re excited to be delivering four Academies globally.”

The ABEA and AIPC ANZ Academy will take place in June 2025. This comprehensive five- day program will cover a range of critical topics in leadership and convention centre management, combining expert lectures and hands-on exercises to equip participants with actionable insights they can immediately apply in their venues.

Natalie O’Brien AM, CEO, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre will host the inaugural AIPC Academy in Australia: “We’re delighted to be the venue for the first-ever ABEA and AIPC ANZ Academy.

“As a venue that inspires knowledge-sharing and collaboration, we’re thrilled to host the inaugural AIPC ANZ Academy, providing a unique opportunity for emerging leaders in our industry to upskill and connect.”

“MCEC is a world-class venue, and we’re dedicated to supporting the learning and development of our team. We’ve had several team members previously represent and learn invaluable skills at the AIPC Academy in Brussels. However, hosting the Academy in Melbourne is a fantastic opportunity not only for our team, but also for convention centres across Australia and New Zealand. We look forward to welcoming leaders from the region to MCEC to learn, collaborate and shape the future of the industry.”

In a further step to ensure the highest standard of operational excellence, ABEA and AIPC are partnering with REVSTAR Group, a Melbourne-based agency renowned for its expertise in hotels and business events to project manage the Academy.

The detailed program and registration information for the ABEA and AIPC ANZ Academy can be found at aipc.org/anz-academy.

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NOTES TO EDITORS

About ABEA:
The Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) is a united force representing the dynamic world of business events. ABEA enhances member’s success and elevates the industry at large through strategic advocacy, research, community development and community. As a powerful, united voice, ABEA lead advocacy efforts with data-driven insights that quantify the business events industry’s impact and influence, shaping informed policy based on the needs of the entire industry. ABEA fosters a vibrant, supportive community that empowers business events professionals at every career stage, providing opportunities for growth, networking, and collaboration.
ABEA: united for real impact.

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES

ZADRO are representing Australian Business Events Association to media.
For images and media enquiries including arranging interviews, please contact:

Felicity Zadro
Managing Director felicity@zadroagency.com.au
0404 009 384

Kirsty Thompson
Senior Project Manager
kirsty@zadroagency.com.au
0468 825 419

ANZ Program Manager
Stephanie Martin
0402 728 010
stephanie@revstargroup.com

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