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ACT Budget backs Canberra’s business events sector
Canberra Convention Bureau welcomes the 2026–27 ACT Budget, which demonstrates strong government support for the local tourism and events sector and delivers targeted initiatives expected to help grow the visitor economy by up to $1 billion by 2030.
For the business events sector, the Budget reflects Canberra’s long-term commitment to investing in the infrastructure, experiences and destination profile that make the nation’s capital a compelling place to meet.
Funding support of the Canberra Business Events Fund to target industry sector aligned conferences will ensure a strong pipeline of demand for the years ahead.
Canberra Convention Bureau CEO Michael Matthews said the 2026–27 Budget signals clear support for the local business events industry and recognises the value it adds to the ACT visitor economy.
“This Budget investment reinforces the value of business events to the destination, and the role major conferences, meetings and events play in stimulating the economy.
It also communicates to meeting planners that we are a competitive business events destination – one that is well supported, growing and focused on delivering high-quality delegate experiences.”
Business events are a major contributor to the local economy, creating value through visitor expenditure, jobs, local procurement and longer-term legacy outcomes for the capital. This investment reflects the ACT Government’s confidence in the sector’s ability to drive economic activity, support local businesses and strengthen Canberra’s position as a leading destination for meetings and events.