Events Industry in Australia and New Zealand Forecasts Major Expansion in 2025 - Travel And Tour World (2025)

Friday, March 28, 2025

The events industry in Australia and New Zealand is poised for substantial growth in 2025, according to the recently released Cvent Event Industry Report 2025. The report, commissioned by global event technology leader Cvent and conducted by independent research consultancy Censuswide, reveals overwhelmingly positive sentiment among event professionals, with 81% planning to increase their event volumes compared to 68% in 2024.

Surveying 150 senior event planners, marketers, and decision-makers from Australia and New Zealand, the research demonstrates a robust outlook for diverse event formats. Most significantly, a projected 57% increase in in-person events signals a strong return to face-to-face interactions post-pandemic. Additionally, webinars (56%), virtual events (54%), and hybrid events (45%) will continue growing, reflecting an industry that has embraced digital innovation while recognising the importance of human connection.

Jack Ukil, Senior Director and Country Head at Cvent Australia, commented on these promising figures, highlighting a notable shift in priorities. “Australian and New Zealand event professionals are committed not only to growth but to creating immersive experiences driven by innovation and sustainability,” Ukil said. “There is also a clear emphasis on accessibility, now viewed as a fundamental standard across all events.”

Brand awareness remains the primary motivator behind event planning, although the report also emphasises ongoing challenges around revenue generation. Reflecting confidence in the market, 77% of respondents plan to increase spending on events, with 100% prioritising strategic event expenditure.

A defining feature of the 2025 outlook is the industry’s willingness to invest in advanced technologies. About 24% of event planners identified technology as their top budget priority, ahead of event promotion (17%) and content speakers (16%). This aligns with government initiatives promoting digital transformation and innovation across various sectors. Official resources, including the Australian Government’s Digital Economy Strategy and Innovation New Zealand, highlight support frameworks designed to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies.

Notably, the report reveals Australia’s significant readiness to embrace artificial intelligence (AI). Currently, 75% of organisations surveyed use AI-driven platforms to plan, manage, design, and market events. Moreover, 45% of respondents indicated strong enthusiasm for adopting and trialling new event tech solutions in the coming year.

Sustainability and accessibility have emerged as critical commitments for the region’s events industry. The Australian Government’s National Waste Policy Action Plan and the New Zealand Ministry for the Environment’s sustainability framework provide important guidelines, driving event professionals to establish measurable sustainability targets. The report found that 80% of respondents have defined clear sustainability goals for their 2025 events—up from 71% in 2024—with 64% prepared to track event-related carbon emissions.

Accessibility is equally prioritised, with 68% of organisations incorporating accessibility targets into their event strategies. Government resources such as the Australian Disability Strategy and New Zealand’s Office for Disability Issues further underline the importance of inclusivity in event planning.

Ultimately, the Cvent Event Industry Report 2025 highlights an optimistic future for the events sector across Australia and New Zealand. Backed by government-supported innovation, sustainability measures, and enhanced accessibility practices, the industry is well-positioned to deliver impactful and inclusive experiences for diverse audiences.