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Stories and ideas

Fresh and sustainable
Our menus evolve with the seasons, spotlighting ingredients from nearby farms and carbon-neutral suppliers where possible. Every dish is not just bursting with flavour but also treads lightly on the planet, with minimal waste and 
eco-friendly practices
.
Global flavours...Melbourne style
Inspired by Melbourne’s multicultural heartbeat, we mix global flavours with local flair, delivering dining experiences that are both adventurous and authentic. Each dish brings the world to your plate with a distinctly Melbourne twist.
Pushing boundaries
We don’t just follow trends; we set them.
Our chefs aren’t afraid to play, turning simple ingredients into unforgettable dishes that surprise and delight, pushing the boundaries of what dining can be.
Inclusive dining
Everyone’s got a place at our table.
Our 
menus
 and dining experiences embrace all needs—vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and more—so you can always enjoy a vibrant, flavour-packed experience with accessibility at the forefront.
Our partners matter
Our love for Melbourne goes beyond the kitchen. We partner with producers who share our values and future aspirations— whether it’s championing 
sustainability
, supporting forward thinkers, or collaborating with beloved local favourites.
Our drink selection? It’s all about blending comfort with creativity, offering everything from your go-to favourites to locally crafted delights.
When you visit MCEC, you can trust that every bite is a tasty dive into Melbourne’s vibrant spirit, bursting with a contagious energy and an array of culinary experiences.
Get a taste of Melbourne—explore our 2024 menu

Melbourne’s a city with a bit of everything—a blend of cultures, a dash of cheek, and plenty of flavour.

Love at First Bite

With 2,150 attendees joining both in person and online, the summit was one of the largest gatherings of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples ever seen in Melbourne.
Celebrating the power of collaboration and cultural integration, the event significantly impacted attendees, the local economy, and the community beyond the summit.
Spotlight on AIATSIS
The Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS)
 is Australia’s leading authority on Indigenous cultures, dedicated to preserving and promoting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and heritage.
AIATSIS ensures that Indigenous cultures are respected, understood, and integrated into Australia’s national story through its research, archives, and educational resources.
At the 2024 AIATSIS Summit, this mission was front and centre, creating a space where tradition and modern thought came together, sparking new ideas and strengthening cultural connections.
Opening with respect and ceremony
The summit kicked off with a powerful Welcome to Country and a traditional smoking ceremony, setting the stage for an event rooted in respect and cultural significance. These heartfelt acknowledgments of the land and its people were more than just moments—they were the perfect introduction to a vibrant cultural program that celebrated heritage and sparked meaningful connections.
Following the ceremonies, prominent Indigenous leaders took the spotlight, steering the conversation toward knowledge-sharing and forward-thinking ideas, setting the tone for the days ahead.
Jodie Sizer, AIATSIS chairperson, emphasised the importance of cultural integration and leadership.
Ngarra Murray and Rueben Berg, co-chairs of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, explored the future of Indigenous governance, land rights, and the journey towards treaties.
Jamie Lowe, CEO of the National Native Title Council, delivered the Mabo Lecture, providing invaluable insights into native title and its significance for Indigenous communities.
A rich and diverse program
Under the theme 
Celebrating Indigenous Brilliance: Then and Now
, the summit honoured the world’s longest-living culture by blending deep-rooted heritage with modern evolution.
Concurrent sessions
 covered essential topics such as rights, recognition, representation, and connection to land and country.
These discussions included 
Pathways to Recognition: Navigating Native Title and Treaty Processes
, which explored the complexities of native title claims and the ongoing journey towards treaty agreements. 
Cultural Heritage: Preserving the Past, Protecting the Future
 focused on protecting and promoting Indigenous cultural heritage in a rapidly changing world. 
Economic Empowerment: Indigenous-Led Development and Growth
 examined successful Indigenous-led economic initiatives and strategies for sustainable development. 
Rights and Representation: Ensuring Indigenous Voices are Heard
 provided a critical look at how Indigenous rights are being recognised and represented in political and social arenas.
Cultural resilience
 was a central theme throughout the summit, with sessions dedicated to exploring how Indigenous cultures thrive despite challenges.
Highlights included 
Strength in Continuity: Thriving Through Tradition
, which delved into how traditional practices and knowledge systems have been preserved and adapted to ensure cultural survival. 
Overcoming Adversity: Indigenous Responses to Contemporary Challenges
 addressed how Indigenous communities tackle modern issues such as climate change, globalisation, and social inequality. 
Celebrating Success: Stories of Resilience and Achievement
 showcased the successes of Indigenous communities in maintaining their cultural identities and achieving self-determination.
Deeper learning
Designed to deepen understanding, foster respect, and celebrate the unique contributions of First Nations peoples, the summit featured several breakout sessions, including:
AIATSIS Consultation Sessions:
Participants engaged in ongoing discussions about cultural preservation and innovation.
Digitisation and Preservation Workshops:
These workshops focused on safeguarding cultural materials and stories, ensuring Indigenous knowledge is protected for generations to come.
Economic Development Panels:
Explored Indigenous-led economic initiatives, discussing strategies for sustainable growth and prosperity.
Empowering the next generation
The Youth Forum was a standout feature of the summit, bringing together young native title holders, students, and community organisers to shape the future of Indigenous leadership, governance, and nation-building. Over several days, these young leaders engaged in dynamic discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, exchanging ideas and strategies to address the challenges and opportunities in their communities. The forum not only empowered these emerging voices but also guaranteed that their perspectives and visions were central to the broader conversations at the summit.
Focusing on youth leadership underscored the commitment to building a strong and resilient future for Indigenous peoples, grounded in tradition and driven by innovation.
Planning ahead
Behind every incredible moment at the AIATSIS Summit 2024 was eight months of meticulous planning. MCEC and Spinifex Events partnered to create an experience that was both dynamic and engaging. From selecting the perfect spaces to managing logistics, this partnership was the backbone of the summit’s success.
Inclusivity and sustainability everywhere
Our team put great thought into curating a menu that celebrated diversity and inclusivity, offering a wide array of delicious options to meet the varied dietary needs of all attendees. Every detail was covered from gluten-free and vegan dishes to culturally significant meals and allergen-conscious selections.
Bridging the gap between in-person and remote attendees, the summit offered a free live-streaming platform and a real-time updated app, giving delegates everything they needed right at their fingertips.
Leading the charge in sustainability
, biodegradable name badges were used, digital signage was ramped up to cut down on paper waste, and a digital app was promoted to replace printed programs. Sustainability was front and centre, with reusable cups and clearly marked waste stations throughout the venue.
Making an impact
With delegates flying in from across Australia and two from overseas, the AIATSIS summit 2024 didn’t just light up MCEC—it also gave a significant boost to Melbourne’s hospitality sector. Delegates stayed an average of 3 to 5 nights, contributing to the local economy and amplifying the event’s overall impact.
The summit was a powerful example of culture, collaboration, and innovation coming together. It highlighted the strength of Indigenous communities, fostered meaningful connections, and drove forward-looking conversations that will continue to make an impact long after the event.
Quick fun facts
One of the biggest gatherings of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Melbourne, with 2,150 attendees.
Cultural performances from Djirri Djirri Cultural Services, Torres Strait dancers, and musicians like Canisha and Dave Arden & Orchestra.
The AIATSIS summit 2024 app kept everyone in the loop with real-time updates, program info, and speaker bios.
Biodegradable name badges, lots of digital signage, and a handy app helped reduce paper waste.
Multiple Welcome to Country and two smoking ceremonies set a respectful and inclusive tone.
Keynotes from big names like Ngarra Murray, Rueben Berg, and Jamie Lowe added serious star power.
Interactive sessions and workshops provided hands-on learning experiences.
Plenty of time and space for connecting and knowledge sharing, making it easy to meet new people and forge new partnerships.
MCEC’s catering offered a variety of options, meeting all dietary needs and delighting everyone’s taste buds.
Explore how our commitment to 
inclusion, diversity, and sustainability
 can elevate your next event.
 

The 2024 AIATSIS Summit came alive over five days in early June. Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) became a buzzing place of cultural exchange, knowledge sharing, and collaboration.

Indigenous Brilliance: A Look Inside the 2024 AIATSIS Summit

MCEC and Starlight partner to bring Melbourne’s culinary giants together for an evening of fun, joy and laughter to raise funds for sick children and their families. 
Guests were spoiled by canapes and a five-course degustation curated by leading Victorian chefs including Benjamin Cooper (Chin Chin), Guy Grossi (Grossi), Jacqui Challinor (Nomad) and Josep Espuga (pt Leo Estate), Alejandro Saravia (Victoria by Farmer’s Daughters) and Peter Haycroft (MCEC).
The well-renowned chefs used their signature styles to create a unique menu, highlighting some of Victoria’s best producers including Infinity Blue, Sher Wagyu, Salt Kitchen Charcuterie and Aurum Poultry. 
Inspired by champagne and caviar, MCEC’s award-winning team served canapes of butter-poached lobster macarons with Yarra Valley caviar and beach herbs alongside mushroom arancini with porcini cream and pickled celeriac.
A proud member of MCEC’s 
Club Melbourne Ambassador program 
and guest chef on the night, Alejandro Saravia reflected on his experience working in the kitchens at MCEC.
“Any preconceptions about event catering are quickly dispelled when you enter the kitchen at MCEC. 
I can attest to the significance of MCEC's spaces in crafting unique dining experiences. The expansive kitchen, combined with the talented culinary team, allows creativity to flourish.”
This year’s event raised over $540,000 to help seriously ill children receiving care at leading hospitals around Melbourne.
MCEC’s Chief Executive Natalie O’Brien AM said the Starlight Five Chefs Dinner is a highlight for many and a collective effort from the entire team.
“Starlight’s Five Chef’s Dinner is a wonderful opportunity to raise much-needed funds and support our local community while sharing in what makes Melbourne the ultimate food lovers destination.
I’m blown away by what we can achieve together. Every person involved in this event from the kitchen to event delivery is essential to the difference we can make for real children and their families.”
Find our more about 
MCEC’s impact commitments
. 

As a proud sponsor of the Starlight Children Foundation’s Five Chef’s Dinner, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) hosted four of Melbourne’s biggest names in food on Thursday, raising funds to grant 32 life-changing Starlight Wishes.

Stars Align for Sick Children at Five Chefs Dinner

Their advocacy efforts have secured Melbourne as the destination for 12 international conferences, doubling the number of successful bids achieved last year.
Collectively, the events are projected to deliver more than $62.5 million in economic impact for the State, nearly tripling the economic impact from the previous year. The events will attract over 10,000 visitors to engage in impactful conversations and experience the vibrancy of Melbourne. 
Professor Frank Dunshae, Professor Alistair Moffat, Todd Harper AM, Dr Zaffar Sadiq Mohamed-Ghouse and Professor Geoffrey Metz AO were awarded for their winning bids to host major international events at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC).
Professor Sanchia Aranda AM, Professor Ron Wakefield, Professor Grant McArthur and Professor Jonathan Shaw were also recognised for their invaluable assistance in securing events for MCEC.  
The prestigious Club Melbourne Award for Excellence was presented to Professor Geoffrey Metz AO, in recognition of his unwavering dedication and advocacy for Melbourne since the program’s inception in 2005. 
The renowned gastroenterologist and Director of Medical Education at Epworth Hospital has been instrumental in successfully bidding for four major international events, with a combined economic impact of $64.3 million.
The annual awards were hosted at THE LUME Melbourne, a fitting venue for a celebration of innovation, excellence and creativity. Guests were inspired and delighted with scenes from THE LUME’s immersive experiences including Van Gough, Monet, and Da Vinci, as well as captivating images of Melbourne city and nightscape.  
Club Melbourne is owned and led by MCEC with support and collaboration from the Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) and the Victorian State Government. 
The program boasts over 80 Ambassadors in medical, science, engineering, agriculture business and community and infrastructure technologies. Together, they continue to advance Melbourne’s reputation as a global hub for academic and business excellence, and leadership.
Quote attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
“Victoria continues to grow its reputation for holding world-class business events. These events not only showcase our state to the world, but also help boost our visitor economy through spending across accommodation, hospitality and broader tourism offerings.”
“Congratulations to all of the winners for their continuing efforts to bring significant international events to Melbourne.”
Quote attributable to MCEC Chief Executive Natalie O’Brien AM
“Our Club Melbourne Ambassadors are some of the best and brightest minds in our city.  The annual awards night celebrates their ongoing advocacy efforts and commitments to building Melbourne’s reputation for research, business and exceptional events. And we’re so proud this year to celebrate almost triple the economic impact from the high-profile events secured for MCEC. Congratulations to all award recipients.” 
Quote attributable to MCB Chief Executive Julia Swanson
“MCB would like to congratulate the annual Club Melbourne Ambassador Program Award recipients who have gone above and beyond to help secure and deliver impactful conferences for Melbourne. As Victoria’s lead agency in acquiring and delivering business events, MCB has worked closely with Club Melbourne Ambassadors to secure prestigious business events for Melbourne. Together, we make a formidable team, providing a unique opportunity to connect prominent thinkers and leaders in the promotion of Melbourne as one of the world’s premier conference and event destinations.”
The award winners are:
Professor Frank Dunshae, World Congress on Animal Production 2024
Professor Alistair Moffat, Annual International ACM SIGIR Conference on Research & Development in Information Retrieval 2026 
Todd Harper AM, World Cancer Leaders’ Summit 2025
Dr Zaffar Sadiq Mohamed-Ghouse, International Symposium on Digital Earth Summit and Locate 2026
Dr Arvind Sinha, Asian Australian Rotorcraft Forum 2024
Bid assist winners:
Professor Sanchia Aranda AM, World Cancer Leaders’ Summit 2025
Professor Ron Wakefield, World Sustainable Built Conference 2026
Professor Grant McArthur, VCCC Alliance Conference 2023
Professor Jonathan Shaw, International Diabetes Federation Western Pacific Region 2026
Associate Professor Anna Boltong, MASCC/ISOO Annual Meeting 2026
Emeritus Professor Milton Hearn, 2nd Australian Conference on Green and Sustainable Chemistry and Engineering 2024
Club Melbourne Award for Excellence:

Professor Geoffrey Metz AO for his work in securing four successful bids since 2005 with a combined economic impact of $64.3 million.


The annual Club Melbourne Ambassador Program Awards honoured twelve forward-thinking leaders for attracting significant international events to Melbourne.

Club Melbourne Ambassadors Celebrated for Amplifying Impact

Get ready!
Explore and be inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s works like never before. Enjoy private access to the immersive Da Vinci exhibition and delve into the ideas, philosophies, and stories behind his masterpieces.
Led by renowned experts in science and art, this talk offers a rare opportunity explore and unpack key moments in his life and examine his unique thinking patterns and ask 
What is Genius?
Given our understanding of genius is evolving. Recent research has begun to question traditional measures like IQ, offering more nuanced perspectives.
Is genius innate, or can it be developed?
Are there different types of genius, and how do they manifest?
How can we better understand and nurture genius?
This is your opportunity to be surrounded by like-minded people ready to unpack genius through the lens of da Vinci.
What can you expect?
Insightful talks by renowned experts
Delicious food and drinks
Lively conversations in the breathtaking ambience of 
THE LUME Melbourne
, Australia’s largest digital art gallery
Plus see the original pages from the Codex Atlanticus, shown in Australia for the first time.
Ideas on what to ask the experts
What specific traits or habits did Leonardo da Vinci exhibit that we can learn from today?
How do different types of genius manifest in various fields like art, science, and technology?
How can we apply Da Vinci’s methods and thinking patterns to solve contemporary problems?
What are some common misconceptions about genius?
How has the perception of genius evolved over time, especially with recent research?
Don’t miss this chance to be part of an event brimming with inspiration and creativity. Your ticket also grants access to the rest of THE LUME Melbourne. 
Limited tickets are available – secure your spot now!
About TEDxMelbourne
Like MCEC, 
TEDxMelbourne
 is all about ideas, sharing knowledge, and providing a platform for people to share their thoughts. We both love supporting local thought leaders and businesses with great ideas.
At TEDxMelbourne events, TED Talks videos and live speakers come together to spark discussions and connections, amplifying the impact of remarkable ideas globally.

Join us this month and dive deep into the ideas and philosophies of one of history's greatest minds Leonardo da Vinci at Unpacking Genius, an exclusive TEDx event at THE LUME Melbourne, presented by MCEC.

Unpacking Genius: An Exclusive TEDxMelbourne Event

With engaging panels, exclusive screenings, interactive workshops, and exciting cosplay competitions, this is your chance to connect with fellow fans in an electric and welcoming atmosphere.
Snap selfies with iconic voice actors, grab autographs from talented cosplayers, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Anime fanatic or just curious. There’s something for everyone. 
Meet iconic voice actors and cosplayers
Let your creativity shine in one of the many cosplay competitions
Play the latest games, challenge friends, and meet creators
Discover unique anime art, prints, and bespoke creations to add to your collection.
Show off your singing talents in the Animaga Idol competition.
Marvel at the Itasha display, with beautifully decorated anime-inspired cars.
For Ball-Jointed Doll (BJD) enthusiasts, immerse in the beauty and charm of the Japanese Garden and Idol Stage-themed photo booths.
Explore timeless classics and modern sensations at the Animaga Tabletop Games Library.
Learn from industry experts, hear behind-the-scenes stories, and gain new insights into the world of anime, manga, and gaming.
Anime fantasy comes to life at the Maid Café 
Surround yourself with charming maids and attentive butlers at an Akihabara-inspired Maid Café. Enjoy a delightful meal or a cup of tea or coffee in the unique ambience. More than just a café – it’s a vibrant community of anime and manga lovers sharing their passion for Japanese culture.
The party continues
Stick around for the Idol Box X Animaga After Party. Dance your way into a world of J-pop idols with performances from interstate and local artists. Enjoy a vibrant and authentic Idol experience with diverse J-pop genres, including EDM, Trance, Rock, Pop, Citypop, and even some Metal tracks.
Tickets are selling fast, 
secure your spot
 today at this epic event—colourful, manga-inspired fits encouraged!

Gather your materials, craft your best costume, and transform into your favourite character, Animaga 2024 is almost here.

Jump into the Anime Universe at Animaga 2024!

Hort Connections 2024 a perfect example, showcased our unwavering commitment to innovation, collaboration, and driving the industry forward.
Back to the future
After a three-year break, 
Hort Connections 2024
 returned to MCEC with unmatched excitement and anticipation, reaffirming our venue as the ultimate platform for collaboration and forward-thinking.
As the leading event for the horticulture industry, MCEC turned into a lively hub where attendees explored new trends and horticultural advancements. Co-produced by AUSVEG and the International Fresh Produce Association A-NZ (IFPA A-NZ), the event united over 20 industry groups, featuring big names in the vegetable, fruit, and floral sectors.
The expansive trade show fostered collaboration among a diverse mix of growers, packers, suppliers, and industry experts. Attendees were inspired by keynote speeches, engaged in interactive workshops, and enjoyed numerous networking opportunities, creating the perfect atmosphere for future innovations and advancements.
Ideal location
Victoria, with its vibrant community of growers and supply-chain businesses, was the perfect location for Hort Connections 2024. Celebrating the region's agricultural heritage, the event provided a platform for local businesses, and highlighted innovative contributions to horticulture.
A return to MCEC highlighted our 
commitment to sustainability
 and community. As a Green Star 6-star venue, we adopted eco-friendly practices, from waste reduction to sustainable materials, reinforcing our dedication to both sustainability and local sourcing.
"In Victoria, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to produce. We source the freshest seasonal produce and wines from suppliers who are the best in their field. By sourcing our produce from local, passionate, and ethical suppliers, we not only highlight the best of what Victoria has to offer but also reduce emissions from transportation." 
- MCEC Executive Sous Chef Joe Goodman
Inside the event
Over three busy days, attendees explored an expansive trade show, attended expert-led talks, participated in women in horticulture sessions, and engaged in a special young growers' event. With a sharp focus on AgTech, biosecurity, and boosting produce consumption, the event celebrated Victoria’s abundant produce and championed sustainability.
Featuring over 200 exhibitors, the atmosphere was electric with networking opportunities. Speaker sessions right on the trade show floor ramped up engagement and fostered dynamic interactions among attendees, exhibitors, and industry leaders.
Highlights included:
The Department of Agriculture's cutting-edge robotic 'dog' for pest recognition
State-of-the-art machinery, advanced packaging solutions, and pioneering tech startups
A strong emphasis on sustainability, with all stands using compostable and recycled materials, underscoring a commitment to the environment
Just beyond the trade show, meeting spaces buzzed with collaboration and discussions on the latest research, technologies, and innovations, offering fresh perspectives on the future of Australasia’s horticulture industry.
A fitting end
The gala dinner served as a perfect bookend, bringing together over 1,500 delegates to celebrate the achievements of ten horticulture industry leaders and pioneers for their contributions and innovations. John Said, Managing Director of Fresh Select, delivered an inspiring speech, encouraging unity in the horticulture industry and emphasising the importance of welcoming change and increasing relevance. Not only a celebration, the gala was a testament to the industry's commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Low-waste technique
With growing interest in zero-waste food practices, MCEC Executive Sous Chef Joe Goodman joined forces with Hort Connections to design an innovative Gala Dinner menu. They used 
Nutri V vegetable powders
, turning over 1,500 servings of surplus locally grown produce into tasty dishes that might have otherwise gone to waste.
Nutri V, a Melbourne-born company, dehydrates quality excess Aussie veggies—100% Australian-grown—using an advanced process that retains nutrients to produce all-natural, fibre-rich vegetable powders.
What was on everybody's plate?
Our MCEC chefs creatively incorporated Nutri V powders into a variety of dishes, including bread, purees, and desserts, all enhanced with the flavours of pumpkin, broccoli, and cauliflower.
"Sustainability is so important to us here at MCEC, and food waste is one of the most critical areas. We have a target for zero organic waste sent to landfill by 2025. Through our partnership with OzHarvest, we donated 10,029kg of food last year, equating to 20,058 meals for people in need. In 2022, we recovered and processed more than 47 tonnes of food waste using our onsite organics dehydrator. Of course, working with event organisers to get catering numbers right in the first instance plays a big role in preventing food waste." 
- MCEC Executive Sous Chef Joe Goodman
A blossoming future 
So, what happens now? The momentum generated at Hort Connections at MCEC continues to propel the horticulture industry forward. The event has set the stage for ongoing innovation and collaboration. With the strengthened visibility and leadership established, Australia and New Zealand are primed to pioneer new advancements in horticulture. Expect more groundbreaking research, sustainable practices, and global partnerships that will keep the sector thriving and evolving. The future of horticulture is bright, and it’s just the beginning.
Explore how our commitment to 
inclusion, diversity, and sustainability
 can elevate your next event. 

After a three-year break, Hort Connections 2024 returned to MCEC with unmatched excitement and anticipation, reaffirming our venue as the ultimate platform for collaboration and forward-thinking.

Harvesting Ideas at Hort Connections 2024

Here, we look back at our incredible 10-year journey, highlighting ground-breaking initiatives, annual events, and our combined effort to educate and advocate for affordable housing, all aimed at bringing lasting positive change to Melbourne.
First, who is Launch Housing?
Launch Housing aims to make Melbourne a world-leading city in ending homelessness. Through direct service delivery and strong community engagement, they work strategically to scale up effective interventions, prevent homelessness, and build innovative housing solutions. Their approach combines fresh thinking, agility, leadership, and courage to challenge stigma and change attitudes, envisioning a city without homelessness.
A legacy of support begins in 1976
Did you know? Before our iconic venue stood as a hub of innovation, the land was home to Hanover’s New Gordon House, providing shelter for those in need from 1976 to 1994. This foundational legacy paved the way for Launch Housing, setting the stage for a partnership embedded in compassion and action.
2012
Our support takes off!
Our journey with Launch Housing began in 2012 through donations, workplace giving, in-kind support for events, fundraising, and marketing. Launch Housing is passionately committed to ending homelessness in Melbourne, providing life-changing housing, support, education, and employment services to thousands of vulnerable Victorians.
2019
Spare change, big impact
In 2019, we launched the Fare Change program at MCEC. A simple tap of your card turned spare change into fare change, providing PTV Travel Passes for those experiencing homelessness. This initiative, supported by the Committee for Melbourne’s Future Focus Group, made it easier for people to access the transport they needed to get back on their feet.
Empowering youth
As proud supporters of Launch Housing’s Education First, Youth Foyers, we provided young people at risk of homelessness with the opportunity to gain essential skills, stable housing, and dedicated coaching. By offering employment pathways at MCEC, we helped numerous young individuals’ step into roles in our kitchens, retail spaces, and customer service teams, providing them with the experience and mentorship they needed to thrive.
2021
A stronger partnership
In 2021, we proudly formalised our partnership with Launch Housing, strengthening our commitment to ending homelessness in Melbourne. This three-year contract cemented our support for their mission and our dedication to a safe, liveable city. Our initiatives included workplace giving, the At-Risk Youth Employment Program, and fundraising events within our venue. 
Walking the talk
Ever wondered what it’s like to live with just $10 a day, one bag of belongings, and no bed? Our team took on the Roughin' It Challenge in 2021, raising over $2,000 for Launch Housing and gaining a firsthand understanding of the daily struggles faced by those without stable housing. This eye-opening experience deepened our empathy and reinforced our commitment to making a difference.
A documentary premiere
The Road Home documentary premiere was a highlight of our decade partnership, shedding light on the stories of resilience and the harsh realities of homelessness in Melbourne. We sponsored the launch and hosted exclusive screenings within our venue, sparking meaningful conversations and inspiring action within our community.
2022 
Hoodies4Homelessness
In support of Youth Homelessness Day, our team donned hoodies for the Hoodies4Homelessness campaign supporting Launch Housing and HoMie. This simple act of solidarity raised awareness and showcased our ongoing commitment to supporting young people experiencing homelessness. It was about more than just wearing a hoodie—it was about showing we cared.
2023
Voices of change
In 2023, during National Homelessness Week, we featured a Q&A with our Community Engagement Specialist Vanessa Draga and Jess Robinson, Launch Housing Youth Development Worker, and Youth Foyer Alumni. This conversation highlighted the transformative impact of Youth Foyers and challenged stereotypes, emphasising the potential of young people to overcome homelessness. 
Spreading joy
In 2023, we sponsored event space to support Launch Housing’s annual toy drive, helping to collect over 2,000 gifts—the biggest year yet! 
“We were able to create toy shops across our sites, providing parents with the opportunity to handpick presents to give to their children on Christmas Day. Witnessing the joy on their faces as they chose from an incredible selection of gifts was truly heartwarming.”
- Elle Holtham, Head of Partnerships, Launch Housing
Looking ahead
As we celebrate the end of our formal partnership with Launch Housing, we look back with immense pride and gratitude. From groundbreaking programs to heartfelt initiatives, our collaboration has made a lasting impact. And while the formal partnership may be concluding, our commitment to ending homelessness remains unwavering.
"We can't thank Launch Housing enough for their tireless efforts and dedication over the last decade. Together with MCEC, our partnership captured the compassion and community spirit of both our organisations and showed how we can continue to create meaningful change with tangible, hands-on action and commitment." 
- Vanessa Draga, Community Engagement Specialist at MCEC

For more than a decade, MCEC has been helping combat homelessness with our incredible community partner, Launch Housing.