NSW government upgrades events focus
Events NSW is to get a major overhaul and there also is a planned major re-vamp of the NSW government’s approach to events attraction.
The new plan announced by Premier Kristina Keneally includes:
• Premier to retain lead agency Events NSW.
• A new portfolio and the appointment Ian Macdonald, minister for State and regional development as minister for Major Events dedicated to the acquisition and attraction of events.
• A high level whole-of-government cabinet committee – comprising the ministers for Tourism, Western Sydney (including Sydney Olympic Park), Arts, and Gaming and Racing – to report to the Premier and
• Appointment of John Conde as chairman of Events NSW. Conde is currently the chairman of Energy Australia, the Sydney Symphony Limited and the Homebush Motor Racing Authority Advisory Board. He also holds positions on the Australian Major Performing Arts Group board and the advisory council of The Children’s Hospital (Westmead).“We will do what it takes to ensure NSW keeps its title of entertainment capital,” said Keneally. “That is why we are taking a stronger approach to securing and attracting events in NSW. Not only will Events NSW continue to report to me – but a high-level Cabinet committee will also be engaged to ensure the biggest and best events stay in NSW.”
Keneally said the new approach confirmed how seriously the government takes the events industry in NSW.
“Major events generate A$500 million for the State of NSW every year and provide huge entertainment value for families and communities,” said Keneally.
“From now on, NSW will have a dedicated minister and portfolio charged with attracting new events and retaining our best and biggest initiatives.
“We are sending a clear message to the world that NSW is open for events business.”
