The project includes the construction of the purpose-built convention and exhibition space, incorporating a 1000 seat venue, two large exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, conference facilities and flexible event spaces.
The highly anticipated Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre precinct development is a step closer to reality, with the selection of the preferred bidder to deliver the much-anticipated project, along with the unveiling of proposed (and truly incredible) designs.
Flagged to open in 2026, Plenary Conventions has been appointed to develop the project and will soon start on the transformation of a 1.6-hectare waterfront site to deliver a world-class facility and precinct to Geelong.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
The precinct will include a purpose-built convention and exhibition space featuring a 1000-seat venue, two large exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, conference facilities and flexible event spaces.
It will also be home to new retail spaces for food and beverage offerings and a large public plaza, as well as a 200-room hotel under the internationally renowned Crowne Plaza brand, promising to provide a massive boost to local visitors.
Key aspects of the precinct’s design and identity have been developed in consultation with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation.
View this post on Instagram
The Victorian Government is contributing $261 million to the project, with the Australian Government contributing $30 million and $3 million from the City of Greater Geelong – bringing the total commitment to $294 million.
As part of the project, more than 600 jobs will be created during construction, with an extra 270 ongoing jobs created once the precinct is complete – driving more economic growth and employment opportunities.
The Victorian Government is also helping local organisation gforce recruit almost 30 new local apprentices and trainees who are experiencing disadvantage in entering the workforce. These apprentices will be employed full-time for the duration of their apprenticeship and until they secure full-time employment with private contractors.
The project consortium includes Plenary Group, Built, Woods Bagot, BGIS and Quintessential Equity.
Once complete, the Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre will be managed and operated by the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Trust (MCET) that operates Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre – cementing Victoria as a premier global destination for events.
Preliminary site works are underway and construction is set to begin shortly, with the convention centre and hotel expected to be complete in 2026.
You can keep up with the project here.
