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  • Celebrating 60 years of Melbourne Convention Bureau

    February 09, 2026

    In 2026, Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) proudly celebrates 60 years of championing Melbourne and Victoria as world‑class destinations for business events. Since its establishment in 1966, MCB’s journey has mirrored Melbourne’s rise as a globally recognised events city—defined by innovation, collaboration and long‑term impact. As MCB marks its diamond jubilee alongside industry partners at AIME 2026, it’s an opportunity to reflect on six decades of progress, partnerships and achievements, while looking ahead to a future that continues to shine on the world stage.

    60 Years of Impact: A Timeline

     

    1960s

    • Melbourne Convention Bureau established in 1966!

    1960s MCB opens

    1970s

    • Melbourne awarded top destination in Australia for international conventions and conferences by the Union of International Associations
    • Launch of the 1979/80 Planners Guide to Melbourne

    Annual Report 1977 Planners Guide to Melbourne

    Image Caption: 1977-78 Annual Report excerpt

     

    1980s

    • Melbourne Meeting Mart is established to promote Melbourne and Victoria as a leading destination for business events
    • Melbourne Tourism Authority incorporates the Melbourne Convention Bureau as its convention marketing arm

    Image Caption: 1982-83 Annual Report excerpt

     

     

    1990s

    Melbourne named in top cities globally for international conventions

    The first AIME takes place in Melbourne attracting 1000 visitors and 200 exhibitors 

    The Melbourne Exhibition Centre opens

    Image Caption: AIME in the 1990's

    Image Caption: 1991-1992 annual report excerpt 

     

    2000s

    BestCities Global Alliance is launched with Melbourne as a founding member 

    MCB opens international offices in Asia, the US and UK

    The Melbourne Convention Centre opens, joining the Exhibition Centre

    Image Caption: MCEC Main Foyer

     

    2010s

    Melbourne hosts the World Diabetes Congress with 10,000 delegates, the largest medical conference ever held in Australia at the time

    MCB becomes subsidiary of the newly-formed Visit Victoria, bringing together tourism, major events and business events for a united approach to driving demand for Melbourne and Victoria

    MCB generates a record $0.5 billion in economic contribution in a 12-month period

     

    Image Caption: World Diabetes Congress

     

    2020s

    AIME celebrates its 30th year

    MCB hosts some of the largest conventions in the world for Lions' International and
    Rotary International

    MCB hosts the Amway China 30th Leadership Summit, the largest incentive program in Australia's history, with 16,000 delegates

    ICCA ranks Melbourne as first in Australia for number of delegates attenaine international association business events in 2025

    Image Caption: Amway 2025

     

    Looking Ahead

    As Melbourne Convention Bureau celebrates six decades of impact, its focus remains firmly on the future—building a strong pipeline of business events that deliver lasting economic, social and knowledge legacies for Melbourne and Victoria. With more than 100 events confirmed through to 2030 and global recognition for scale, sustainability and innovation, the next chapter is already taking shape. Grounded in its past and driven by purpose, MCB continues to shine as a catalyst for connection, growth and opportunity—ensuring Melbourne’s place at the forefront of global business events for generations to come.

     

    Be Part of the Next Chapter

    Partner with Melbourne Convention Bureau to create business events that drive impact, inspire connection and leave a lasting legacy for Melbourne and Victoria.
    → Contact Melbourne Convention Bureau