In a recent announcement John Eren, Minister for Tourism and Major Events, said Melbourne has also been successful in securing the Lions Clubs International Convention 2024 to be held at the MCEC. He said:
“Our $205m investment in the MCEC expansion is already paying dividends – securing the biggest cultural conference in our state’s history.”
The huge event is estimated to create 550 jobs as well as generating as much as $84.4m in extra revenue for the local economy.
Mr. Eren said the expansion works will effectively provide 20,000sqm of additional multipurpose and exhibition space to the centre, attract 74,000 more international visitors annually and boost the state’s visitor economy by an estimated $167m.
A graphic design of the expanded development shows the extent of the works which will also include a huge structural steel component of near 3,000 tonnes.
Minister for Major Projects Jacinta Allan said the Government’s investment in major projects was the largest in the state’s history, explaining
“We’re using this pipeline of work to put local jobs and Victorian businesses first.”
The major redevelopment project is due for completion by the middle of 2018.