Big things are going on in Canberra

Big things are going on in Canberra
By Anne Majumdar


The National Convention Centre in Canberra is in the throes of its first major revitalisation in almost a decade.

All work is due for completion by the end of June 2017, with the first of the two stages of the project already well underway.

NCC manager Stephen Wood said the emphasis was on using local suppliers to ensure the project generates economic benefits in the capital.

“It’s important for us to be more than just “present” in the community,” he said.

“We don’t exist in isolation. We’re part of Canberra and are active in the community through strong, local partnerships.”

Stage one is already underway with new carpets and furniture to be installed in the foyer with its reception area, bathrooms and conference office also being refurbished. The $2.7 million phase will be complete by June 30.

Meanwhile it is “business as usual” for the centre with bookings still being made and events still being held without customer disruption, Wood said.

The last major NCC refurbishment was in 2007, with a large percentage of funds being spent on compliance.

Total funding from the ACT Government this time is $5.4 million with the work being undertaken “more than just cosmetic” as the centre works hard to attract more conference business to the capital.

“Attracting conference business to Canberra has a major ripple effect through the economy as conference  delegates spend on accommodation, dining, attractions and retail, which all support local jobs,” Wood said. “There is growing recognition that business events make a broader contribution to the destination, delivering innovation, knowledge and performance.”

He added that the timing was perfect with the recent announcement of international flights linking the capital with Singapore and New Zealand.

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