The events industry body is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025 but has appointed an administrator ahead of ceasing operations.
The annual MEA National Conference was to be held in June 2025 in Sydney – with Spice announced as a Gold Media Partner just last week – but this will no longer go ahead.
“It is with deep sadness and a profound sense of gratitude that we share with you the news that Meetings and Events Australia (MEA) will be closing after 50 years of service to the Australian events industry,” says MEA chair Vanessa Green.
“Despite increased member engagement, growing ticket sales, strong award entries, and the introduction of exciting new education offerings, MEA is no longer in a financial position to continue operations.
“The board has made the difficult, but necessary, decision to appoint an administrator today (27 March 2025).
“This decision does not reflect a lack of passion or dedication from our community.
“In recent months, we have seen a surge of interest in our initiatives, including the upcoming 2025 National Conference; our refreshed education short courses; professional development webinars; and the celebration of MEA’s 50th anniversary – a milestone that represents five decades of connection, collaboration and professional development.
“Despite this momentum, we have been unable to secure the significant cash sponsorship required to sustain MEA’s activities.
“Historically, MEA has relied on the generous support of sponsors and government partners to help us keep membership accessible for small businesses, individual professionals and larger corporate clients.
“In recent years, funding and sponsorship from state and federal government agencies and bureaus have been withdrawn, and our core base of SME and corporate members, also facing tighter margins, have been unable to bridge the gap.
“While sponsorship interest for events such as the MEA National Conference and Awards remains strong, much of the support offered has been in-kind services, rather than the essential cash contributions needed to maintain operations.”
Green says the financial struggles for MEA reflect those of the broader events industry and community at large.
“This challenge reflects broader pressures across the events sector, with rising operational costs and reduced external support impacting many organisations,” she says.
“The emergence of new industry bodies, such as the Australian Business Events Association (ABEA), has also led some traditional supporters, including convention centres and government agencies, to redirect funding away from MEA.
“After five decades of supporting, representing and celebrating Australia’s vibrant events community, this is a moment of reflection and gratitude.
“MEA has helped shape the careers of thousands of professionals, deliver nationally recognised education through our RTO [registered training organisation], and championed excellence through the MEA Mentor Program and our long-standing awards and industry events.
“We thank each and every member, sponsor, partner and colleague who has contributed to MEA’s journey – your support has meant everything.
“As we close this chapter, we do so with pride in MEA’s legacy and confidence that the events industry in Australia will continue to thrive through the passion, creativity and professionalism of its people.”
The 2025 MEA Awards are still set to be announced in the coming days.
“This is not the outcome any of us wanted, but we are deeply proud of what MEA has delivered for the industry, from nurturing careers and shaping education, to building networks and recognising excellence through our national awards,” says Megan Peters, MEA board vice-chair.
“The relationships, learnings and legacy of MEA will endure.”
