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“We love opening our doors every year to welcome thousands of families to enjoy a day of fun and celebration, while raising much-needed funds for sick children across Victoria,” Chief Executive, Natalie O’Brien AM said.
“It’s a truly rewarding experience and you can see how much joy this event brings to the local community and the MCEC team,”
 Ms O’Brien added.
MCEC’s talented chefs played a crucial role in this year’s success, baking an astonishing 20 metres of hot cross buns, made up of nearly 3,000 buns. 
Alessandro Bartesaghi, MCEC’s award-winning pastry chef said, 
“The Good Friday Appeal event is really close to my heart and I love creating something special for the children every year.”
“This year I really wanted to push the boundaries and try something we’ve never done before. And what a better way than baking the longest table of hot cross buns you’ve ever seen! I was inspired by Japanese baking techniques to create a very soft, delicious bun that everyone can enjoy,”
 he added. 
In addition, MCEC’s interactive Ice Cream-o-Rama served 1,200 house-made ice creams. All profits from the sale of the hot cross buns and ice creams were generously donated to the Good Friday Appeal, further contributing to the remarkable total raised this year.
All funds raised from the event will contribute to groundbreaking research, family care programs and state of the art equipment at The Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne.
This year’s appeal also extended its impact across the state, providing a significant boost to regional paediatric health services at Barwon Health, Bendigo Health, Grampians Health, Goulburn Valley Health, Albury Wodonga Health and Latrobe Regional Health.
"For over 10 years MCEC has generously supported the Good Friday Appeal, providing the venue and services for our family fun event, Kids Day Out, the all important Phone Room and Money Counting Room"
, Rebecca Cowan, Executive Director of the Good Friday Appeal said.
"Thank you to Natalie O'Brien and the team at MCEC who worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth delivery of this huge event, which allows the community to make a difference to the lives of sick children and their families".
The collaboration between MCEC and the Good Friday Appeal continues to demonstrate the power of community spirit. 

MCEC and The Good Friday Appeal have joined forces for the 11th consecutive year, raising a record $23.8 million for life-saving care for Victorian children..

MCEC Welcomes the Sweetest Good Friday Appeal Yet

VCET is the first convention centre operator in Australia to appoint a permanent external advisory committee dedicated to creating accessible, inclusive experiences for customers, visitors and employees.
Following an open expression of interest process, Briar Harte, Nikhil Bora, Jess Price and Alex Stratikis were appointed to the committee.
Each committee member brings a unique expertise to the table:
Briar Harte is a specialist in inclusive design and a former winner of the Disability Inclusion Changemaker of the Year award.
Nikhil Bora is an experience designer and co-founder of SignHow, a start-up that developed the first community-driven sign language dictionary.
Jess Price is the founder and Chief Vision Officer of Paradigm Makers, a business consultancy that designs solutions that respond to systemic workplace challenges.
Alex Stratikis is a tourism consultant, writer, and founder of Autism Adventures Abroad, providing content and travel advice for autistic adults. 
Chief Executive Natalie O’Brien AM was delighted to join the committee members for their inaugural meeting earlier this month. 
“At MCEC and Nyaal Banyul, we aim to create spaces where people of all abilities can connect, discover and enjoy. By actively engaging people with lived experience, we hope to ensure our facilities and services are truly inclusive and welcoming to all.” 
“The Accessibility Advisory Committee members bring a wealth of knowledge, personal and professional experience to the table and I look forward to the progress we can make together.”
The establishment of the Accessibility Advisory Committee aligns with VCET’s commitments to improving services and facilities at MCEC and Nyaal Banyul, as outlined in the Accessibility Action Plan launched last year. The committee will play a crucial role in monitoring progress and holding the organisation accountable to its commitments. 
Significant advancements have already been made at MCEC, including the opening of a Changing Place facility earlier this year and achieving Limited Mobility Accessible Tourism Accreditation.
MCEC’s Customer Service team have also undertaken Hidden Disabilities Sunflower training, which recognises over 900 non-visible disabilities, chronic illnesses and health conditions, to better support visitors with diverse needs.
Looking ahead at Nyaal Banyul, which is set to open in mid-2026, Universal Design Principles have been embedded to ensure accessibility and inclusivity from the moment the doors open. The new venue will feature a Changing Place Facility, sensory rooms, fully accessible seating, augmented hearing assistance and high-contrast wayfinding.
VCET is committed to setting a positive example for the event industry, listening to lived experience and taking proactive steps to improve accessibility and inclusivity across two world-class venues.
Two committee members had this to say about their appointment:
"My goal is to help shift accessibility from something people have to ask for into something they can expect by design,"
 Jess Price. 
"I’m looking forward to sharing my knowledge as a disability inclusion advocate and experience as a Mum with a disability. Too often I avoid events for fear of accessibility barriers, I look forward to helping make Melbourne events more and more accessible for families like ours,"
 Briar Harte. 

Victorian Convention and Event Trust, operators of MCEC and Nyaal Banyul, have appointed an Accessibility Advisory committee.

Accessibility Advisory Committee Appointed to Enhance Inclusivity at MCEC

Aligning with the theme of the evening, MCEC’s talented Chefs teamed up with Skyfarm, an urban farm on the venue’s Siddeley St Carpark rooftop, to design a vibrant gala dinner menu showcasing local, seasonal and sustainable ingredients.
Executive Sous Chef of Culinary Development, Karl Edmonds said 
“MCEC is committed to sustainable and responsible practices, and this philosophy extends to our menus.”
“The Banksia Awards gala dinner menu featured dishes that not only taste great, but are also great for the environment. We utilised fennel seeds, celery green chilli and rainbow silverbeet hand-picked from Skyfarm and delivered on foot to our kitchens. The menu also featured fantastic local suppliers that share our commitments to sustainability.”
Leftover produce from the evening was donated to community partner OzHarvest, to redistribute to those in need. 
In addition to hosting the awards gala, MCEC proudly sponsored the Circular Economy Award, which recognises initiatives that eliminate waste and pollution while circulating products and materials at their highest value.
Sustainability and Impact Manager, Kristen Gillespie said, 
“The Circular Economy Award strongly aligns with MCEC’s industry-leading sustainability strategy and commitment to promoting environmental responsibility. We’re thrilled to support initiatives that contribute to a more sustainable future for our community and beyond.”
The Circular Economy Award, sponsored by MCEC, was presented to BlockTexx, a textile recycling company, for their innovative technology that aims to transform the fashion industry.
BlockTexx created a world-first solution to recycle clothes made from a mixture of polyester and cotton. Their specialised technology breaks down these clothes and turns them into recycled polyester and cellulose, which can be reused in new products.
“I’d like to congratulate all finalists for their commitments to developing unique solutions to reduce waste, encourage responsible consumption and achieving positive social and environmental outcomes. Congratulations to BlockTexx, they are well deserving of the award,”
 Kristen said.
This year marked the fourth consecutive year that MCEC has partnered with Banksia, showcasing our shared commitment to environmental and social sustainability.
“We’re proud to partner with Banksia to host the National Sustainability Awards every year, inspiring others to make a difference and create a better future for us all. As a globally leading sustainable destination, Melbourne provides the perfect backdrop for this impactful event,”
 Kristen added.
CEO of Banksia Foundation, Graz van Egmond said, 
“Our collaboration with MCEC has elevated the Banksia National Sustainability Awards to new heights. Their sustainable practices and passion for fostering change complement our mission, ensuring that every aspect of this event inspires action and celebrates excellence in sustainability."
MCEC is the first convention centre in the world to be awarded 6-star green star rating and one of only five convention centres worldwide to achieve EarthCheck Platinum Certification. MCEC continues to pave the way for a more sustainable future, demonstrating that responsible practices can coexist with exceptional service and culinary innovation. 


MCEC proudly hosted the Banksia National Sustainability Awards last night, celebrating outstanding contributions to sustainability across Australia.

MCEC Serves up Sustainability at the Banksia National Awards

The prestigious awards recognise excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry, from attractions to accommodation, food tourism and events, showcasing the breadth of exceptional experiences across Australia.  
Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos congratulated the team on their award. 
“Business events play an important role in our booming visitor economy and this award recognises MCEC and their team’s hard work to be one of Australia’s best business event venues.” 
Natalie O’Brien AM, Chief Executive of MCEC was thrilled to achieve this national recognition.
“We’re extremely proud to be named as one of the leading venues in Australia for business events. MCEC’s location, in the heart of the CBD sets the perfect backdrop for events with impact. Our progressive sustainability practices, cutting-edge technology, vibrant menu that celebrates Melbourne’s diverse culinary scene and team of experts, makes MCEC an ideal partner to bring your vision to life.”
“This achievement is testament to our team’s unwavering commitment to delivering world-class events and create meaningful experiences for our customers and visitors.”  
MCEC is an iconic venue in Melbourne’s thriving events scene. With over 70,000 square metres of flexible event space, MCEC hosts dynamic exhibitions, world congresses, business conferences, galas, concerts and more.  
In the last year, MCEC hosted over 713 events including the high-profile ASEAN-Australia Special Summit and the world-renowned BBC Earth Experience. MCEC attracted 3.2 million visitors and generated more than $777 million in economic impact.  
As Victoria’s Business Event Venue of the Year, MCEC competed with the best venues around the nation.   
“I know that each finalist, like MCEC, strives to offer the best experiences for event organisers and visitors, driving important outcomes for their state. Congratulations to all finalists and to Peppers Silo Hotel Launceston, they are well-deserving of the Gold Award,
” Ms O’Brien said.   
MCEC continues to lead the industry by embracing cutting-edge technology, fostering inclusivity and enhancing visitor experiences. This latest award cements MCEC’s position as a leader in the global events industry, further solidifying Melbourne’s status as a premier destination for business events. 

MCEC proudly won Silver/Bronze at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards last night for Best Business Event Venue in Australia.

MCEC celebrated as an industry leader at the Australian Tourism Awards

The new state-of-the-art facility was developed in collaboration with Folk Architects and constructed, using funding available through a Changing Places Grant provided by the Victorian Government.
MCEC and the architects sought feedback and input from community members with lived experience to ensure their needs and preferences were considered in the design of the space.
Featuring warm materials, an inviting colour palette, interesting textures and soft lighting, the facility has been specifically created as a welcoming and safe environment. Bespoke furniture, including bench seating for carers, created to be both beautiful and comfortable to use, enhance the overall experience.
Universal Design principles are incorporated throughout the space. Fully functional and hygienic fixtures and fittings such as a height-adjustable adult changing table, a ceiling track hoist system and a centrally located peninsula toilet, ensure the facility is inclusive for all users.
MCEC's Changing Place is located centrally within the venue, close to Plenary theatre, Goldfields Café and the Exhibition Centre car park, as well as in close proximity to the surrounding retail and dining precinct.
The new facility will enable children, young people and adults with profound or multiple disabilities to visit MCEC and participate in the diverse range of events we host, including events that specially attract people with disabilities such as the Melbourne Disability Expo, Disability Connections Expo, Source Kids Disability Expo and the Variety Kids Christmas Party.
In addition to the new Changing Place facility, the adjoining Parents Room has also been upgraded, continuing a warm, inviting feeling throughout both spaces and providing accessible facilities for all ages and abilities.
The opening of the Changing Place facility is a major step in the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust’s Accessibility Action Plan, which was launched earlier this year.
Quote attributable to Minister for Disability Lizzie Blandthorn
“This Changing Places facility further cements Victoria’s reputation as a state that prioritises inclusion and accessibility - as we continue removing barriers for thousands in the community.”
“Accessible facilities are essential to creating an inclusive and comfortable experience for all Victorians and visitors, and we’re proud to support another Changing Places site.”
Quote attributable to MCEC Chief Executive Natalie O’Brien AM
“As an iconic venue, MCEC is committed to creating accessible and inclusive spaces, enabling everyone to meaningfully participate and engage in events that provide important social and economic value.”
“We’re proud to unveil our new Changing Place, providing a safe, hygienic and welcoming bathroom facility. The thoughtful design elements and attention to detail prioritise accessibility and comfort for all users. We’re proud to work with the Victorian Government and Folk Architects to create a truly inclusive facility.”
Quote attributable to Director of Folk Architects Tim Wilson
“As architects, we are passionate about designing for everybody, to create inclusive and equitable spaces that engage with the community.”
“On a personal note, as a parent of a child with complex additional needs we are excited and proud of this project. Not only will it encourage broader participation in all of the incredible events that the MCEC precinct has on offer but importantly it sends a message that people with disability, their families, friends and support networks can be included in all aspects of society and engage with the vibrant city of Melbourne.”



MCEC is proud to unveil its new Changing Places facility, providing welcoming and accessible bathroom facilities for visitors with high support needs.

MCEC Opens New Accessible Facilities

Executive Chef Peter Haycroft said the new menu demonstrates MCEC’s creativity and expertise. 
“MCEC’s award-winning kitchen is renowned for pushing the boundaries of traditional conference catering. Our passion and hospitality shines through every dish we serve.”
“The team has worked tirelessly to design the bold new menu, dedicated to sustainability and inspired by Melbourne’s iconic food scene. We’re proud to introduce a wide range of new dishes this year that are set to impress event organisers and delegates alike.”
MCEC’s food philosophy, inspired by Melbourne’s diverse, innovative and multicultural nature, ensures that every dish is not only delicious but also reflects the city's vibrant culinary culture.
80% of the produce has been sourced from the finest growers and creators across Melbourne and Victoria. This also extends to the beverage packages, which feature locally sourced wines, craft beers and specialty cocktails and mocktails. MCEC is excited to announce a new partnership with local Geelong brand, the Curious Cabinet for delicious non-alcoholic options, and continue its collaboration with globally renowned Four Pillars Gin.
Furthering its commitment to sustainability, MCEC is proud to launch With Purpose packages across the entire menu range, designed to create a positive impact. With Purpose are not individual dishes, MCEC’s culinary team have created an entire menu package with each course specifically designed to complement the next.
With Purpose packages showcase suppliers that share our commitments to sustainability and mindful selections have been made throughout to reduce waste, minimise food packaging and support ethical food production. All surplus produce will be donated to our community partner OzHarvest. Last year over 3,000 kg of food was rescued, equating to 6,746 meals for those in need.
With Purpose packages are offered at a lower price, enabling event organisers to reduce their overall event spend, while also minimising their environmental impact.
Executive Sous Chef of Culinary Development, Karl Edmonds said, 
“MCEC’s new With Purpose packages not only provide delicious options for guests but also align with our commitments to environmental responsibility. By choosing these packages, event organisers can make a positive impact without compromising on quality or taste.”
The entire menu range incorporates micro herbs grown onsite as well as locally, ethically and sustainably produced seafood including Hiramasa Kingfish, Etty Bay Barramundi and Bass Strait Scallops.
Dietary requirements are once again considered throughout the menu. Something For Everyone, an entirely vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free range, is also available, creating a flavour-packed experience with inclusivity at the forefront.
Another highlight is the new Flavours of Country gala dinner menu, a three-course set meal celebrating Australia, with a vibrant blend of local produce and native ingredients.
“Victoria is famous for its exceptional produce and this really shines through our Flavours of Country gala menu,”
 Karl said.
“Think sustainably caught fish, locally farmed chicken and beef perfectly paired with native flavours like Davidson plum, saltbush, bush tomato, Kakadu plum, lemon myrtle and more,”
 he added.
No matter what event they’re attending, every guest can enjoy a unique culinary experience, showcasing the best of Melbourne and inclusive of dietary needs and preferences.  
Get a taste of the menus 
here
. 

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre is proud to unveil its 2025 menu, with new eco-friendly packages, highlighting native ingredients, and delighting every guest with a taste of Melbourne.

MCEC Launches New Menu Showcasing Culinary Excellence with a Conscience

The Venue of the Year Award highlights MCEC’s reputation for hosting world-class events, attracting millions of visitors every year, boosting the local economy and shaping Melbourne’s vibrant cultural scene. The award also recognises MCEC’s industry-leading products, services and commitment to corporate social responsibility. 
During the year, MCEC invested in technology upgrades to improve the delegate experience, including new state-of-the-art LED screens in Plenary and accessible digital event technology, which was utilised by over 3,000 people in the last year. 
MCEC also launched a modern, accessible website with resources to help customers in their event planning process. The website features 360-degree virtual tours and the Positive Impact Guide to help our customers deliver more inclusive, sustainable and impactful events. 
Chief Executive, Natalie O’Brien AM was proud to accept the Venue of the Year Award last night.
“Business events play a pivotal role in Australia’s economic, social and cultural landscape and we’re proud to contribute to the growth and success of the industry. To be recognised by the industry’s peak body is a true honour.”
“This award is a testament to MCEC’s commitment to innovation, cutting-edge technology and the hard work and dedication of our team in delivering memorable experiences for every visitor.”
This latest award further solidifies MCEC’s reputation as a sustainable, forward-thinking venue. MCEC is committed to driving innovations that benefit our customers, visitors, community and create lasting impacts on the events industry. 
 

MCEC took home Venue of the Year at the inaugural Australian Business Events Association Awards last night.

MCEC Crowned Australian Venue of the Year

In 2023-24, MCET generated $777 million in economic impact for the State of Victoria, as well as achieving important climate change, water, procurement, equality and recognition targets.
MCEC proudly hosted 720 events, including the high-profile ASEAN Commemorative Summit, Lions International Convention, the largest AIME in a decade, and the BBC Earth Experience, direct from its world premiere in London. 3.2 million people visited MCEC, a 23% increase from last year.
In an important milestone, MCET launched its latest Accessibility Action Plan in 2023-24, which was developed with input from people with lived experience along with expertise from accessibility consultants in the tourism industry.
MCEC’s innovative returnable coffee cup program served over 894,000 delegates with reusable stainless-steel cups, preventing thousands of disposable cups from ending up in landfill.
During the year, MCEC developed a carbon emissions inventory, calculating Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. By including Scope 3 emissions, MCEC is extending its responsibility beyond its direct operations and encouraging sustainable practices along the entire value chain. The carbon inventory will also be used to develop a roadmap to achieve net zero by 2050.
Continuing its commitment to supporting leading Australian charities and community organisations, MCEC celebrated a decade of support for the Good Friday Appeal and OzHarvest, and workplace giving increased by 297%.
In Geelong, Nyaal Banyul project partners have established a gold standard for social procurement during the construction of Nyaal Banyul, providing fully funded training for 28 trainees or apprentices who have experienced barriers to employment.
MCET also collaborated with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners to develop the award-winning brand identity for the future venue, which takes inspiration from the venue’s gifted name and the landscapes and heritage of Wadawurrung Country.
Quote attributed to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos
“MCET plays a key role in our booming visitor and events economy, which keeps our hotels and hospitality venues thriving and backs local businesses and jobs."
Quote attributed to Chief Executive Natalie O’Brien AM 
“As leaders in the events industry, we play an important role in contributing to a better future through our commitments to people, planet and economic prosperity. We’re proud of the innovative sustainability programs we’ve implemented at MCEC over the year, as well as the progress we’ve made in Geelong, in collaboration with our project partners and Wadawurrung Traditional Owners. We look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the communities we serve.”
Quote attributed to Sustainability and Impact Manger Kristen Gillespie
“We’ve made important progress towards our ambitious impact goals, be that through waste reduction efforts, sponsorship for community organisations, or improving access for people with disabilities. We know many of our customers, partners and stakeholders share our commitments to sustainability and community impact, and we look forward to continuing to work with them to ensure it remains a top priority.” 
Read the 
Annual Report
 and 
Impact Report
 here.  

Operators of the globally renowned MCEC and the future Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre have released their Annual Report and Impact Report.