MCEC was awarded gold as the state’s best venue in the VTIC Victorian Tourism Awards on Thursday 21 November, 2024, having won the same award in 2023.

The venue also won bronze for the Lord Mayor’s Award at the ceremony.

The Victorian Business Event Venue Award recognises venues that provide the highest quality facilities, services and events, and acknowledges their contribution to the business events industry.

“MCEC welcomes millions of visitors from around the world every year, boosting the economy and supporting growth of local businesses,” says MCEC chief executive Natalie O’Brien AM.

“We pride ourselves on providing world-class services and facilities, and everyone who visits leaves inspired and excited.”

The award recognises MCEC’s innovations, including its newly launched website, which features 360-degree virtual tours, allowing for online exploration of the venue.

The Lord Mayor’s Award recognises businesses in metropolitan Melbourne that demonstrate commitment to responsible tourism.

MCEC is the first convention centre in Australia to introduce a permanent returnable cup program, so far serving more than 894,000 delegates with reusable stainless-steel cups.

MCEC has also launched its latest Accessibility Action Plan, in collaboration with consultants in the tourism industry, and has facilitated work placements for four people with disabilities.

Additionally, the venue has developed its Positive Impact Guide to help clients infuse corporate social responsibility into events held at the venue.

This online toolkit provides customers with resources to reduce the environmental footprint of events, honour and engage Traditional Owners, make events more accessible and inclusive, and elevate delegate experiences through community partnerships.

“The awards recognise everyone’s commitment to providing high levels of customer service, attention to detail, continuous improvement and delivering memorable events each and every day,” says O’Brien.