The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and the Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) during the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) to address critical challenges in the Australian business events sector. The agreement, effective from February 19, 2024, and slated for review in December 2026, underscores their commitment to collaborate on three pivotal areas:

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Legacy and Sustainable Industry, Talent Development and Retention.

ICCA and ABEA intend to support their members and associations in implementing DEI practices by gathering and disseminating case studies. Both organizations aim to advocate to government and stakeholders regarding the significance of the Business Events industry as a driver of economic and social impact. Collaborative efforts between ICCA and ABEA will include the Emerging Leaders Challenge at AIME 2024, providing recognition and a platform for emerging leader professionals to share ideas on refining the Business Events proposition in talent attraction and retention.

The MOU signifies a strategic partnership between ICCA and ABEA to address pressing issues and advance the Australian business events industry. It acknowledges the importance of collaboration and collective action in fostering diversity, sustainability, and talent development within the sector.