– A valuable resource for business event planners to drive social impact and deliver rich cultural experiences –
The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) has launched a First Peoples Engagement Guide, aimed at assisting event planners in creating culturally enriched business events and fostering positive social impact.
Tailored specifically to the business events industry, the valuable resource includes practical information about when and how to organise a Welcome to Country or Acknowledgement of Country, a curated Indigenous Business Events Supplier Guide and useful tips on how to put the guide into practice.
MCB Chief Executive Julia Swanson acknowledged the rising demand for experiences that recognise and celebrate the rich and diverse culture of Victoria’s First Peoples.
“Event planners are increasingly seeking to integrate First Peoples-led suppliers into their programs, recognising the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution with social outcomes.
“Melbourne and Victoria boast thousands of years of Aboriginal culture, providing a profound backdrop to enrich delegate experiences. By incorporating Indigenous-owned and operated suppliers into a business event program, it not only celebrates this cultural heritage but also positively impacts the social fabric of Victoria’s First Peoples and contributes to the well-being of future generations,” said Ms Swanson.
The First Peoples Engagement Guide highlights extraordinary local talent and Indigenous-owned and led businesses poised to elevate business events with cultural richness and diversity.
From professionals credited with conducting Welcome to Country to caterers offering native fusion cuisine and merchandising suppliers contributing to Social Impact Funds, the guide equips planners with the tools to create captivating events. Business event planners will be inspired by the sample incentive itineraries included that integrate Victoria’s Indigenous history, culture, and contemporary experience.
MCB aims for the guide to be a regular reference tool for business event planners as well as delivering lasting legacies. It supports the bureau’s sustainability strategy and aligns with Experience Victoria 2033, Victoria’s strategic plan to shape the future of the visitor economy over the next 10 years, empowering the First Peoples community in the tourism and events sectors, and positioning Victoria as a leading destination for diverse, First Peoples-led experiences.
“International associations hosting their conference in Melbourne can learn how to respect local traditions and discover easy ways to increase their social impact outcomes, support their company’s sustainability policy or for Australian organisations, their company’s Reconciliation Action Plan initiatives.
“Corporate meeting and incentive planners will find inspiring speakers and outstanding entertainment for their gala welcome event or use the guide to discover meaningful, culture-rich experiences to infuse into their itinerary,” Ms Swanson added.
While MCB encourages the use of Indigenous event suppliers, it also partners with over 120+ suppliers including hotels, venues, Professional Conference Organisers, transport providers, tour operators and more to deliver successful and memorable business events.
MCB will continue to update to the supplier directory and provide ongoing sources of inspiration for business event planners in the future.
Access the First Peoples Engagement Guide online or find out more about how you can work with MCB on your next business event.