Melbourne will welcome 3,000 gastroenterology experts from around the world in 2025 after securing the World Congress of Gastroenterology for 2025 - thanks to the Allan Labor Government's Business Events Fund.
The global congress will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 20 to22 September 2025, where experts from around the world will share knowledge and best practice that will aid the advancement of the health science.
The congress will provide a massive boost to Melbourne's hotels and restaurants and support hundreds of jobs in the business events sector - delivering an estimated $17.7 million in economic benefit.
The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) worked closely with the Gastroenterological Society of Australia and World Gastroenterology Organisation - with support from Tourism Australia - to secure the bi-annual event.
Hosting the congress will further enhance Melbourne's reputation as a hub of medical research excellence, while showcasing Victoria's leadership in the advancement of the field.
In the past financial year, business events have played a significant role in Victoria's visitor economy - with MCB hosting 213 events for 52,588 delegates and securing 215 future events that will contribute $252 million to the state.
Melbourne leads the nation in attracting international delegates - ranking first in Australia and 15th globally according to the International Congress and Convention Association.
With 123 additional business events confirmed for Melbourne until 2028, the Labor Government's commitment to the sector is expected to deliver $570 million in economic impact, 252,000 hotel room nights, and attract 105,000 delegates to experience Melbourne's renowned cultural, sporting, and hospitality offerings.
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
"We're backing our business events sector by supporting major conferences that will bring visitors from around the world to Victoria."
"Our hotels, restaurants, and attractions will reap the rewards as thousands of delegates land in Melbourne to experience everything our city has to offer has to offer - while showcasing Victoria's leadership in medical research on the global stage."
As stated by Minister for Medical Research Ben Carroll
"This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase Melbourne's leadership in medical research and innovation while bringing together the best and brightest minds from around the world to advance the science of gastroenterology."
As stated by Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive Julia Swanson
"Melbourne is the ideal destination to host this high-profile Congress - our city has a proven track record in hosting business events, and the ideal event infrastructure including quality accommodation, accessible public transport and exciting city experiences."
