- Published:
- Sunday 3 May 2015
Premier Daniel Andrews today joined Minister for Tourism and Major Events, John Eren, to announce an $80 million boost in the 2015-16 Victorian Budget to cement the state as the major events capital of Australia.
Victoria’s status makes us the envy of our interstate competitors, but we have to work hard to keep our edge and remain at the head of the pack.
The Andrews Labor Government’s first Budget will include a $20 million annual boost to strengthen the war chest used to secure major events in Melbourne and regional Victoria.
Our blockbuster calendar ensures our restaurants are buzzing, our hotels are full and our tourism operators are busy. It means more jobs for Victorians and a stronger state.
Mr Andrews also announced another major sporting event for Victoria, as our star-studded Boomers and Opals prepare to take on New Zealand in the FIBA Oceania Championships. The event in August will be the first internationals at Rod Laver Arena in 15 years.
Our star Boomers are dominating in the NBA like never before, and they could all be back home in green and gold for the Trans-Tasman battles – which double as 2016 Rio Olympics qualifiers.
The Opals, ranked second in the world, will face off at Rod Laver Arena when they meet the Tall Ferns. Olympic medallist Liz Cambage and international star Laura Hodges will spearhead our efforts to capture gold in Brazil.
Major events like these bring tourists to our state, and our funding boost will attract even bigger and better events now and into the future.
The FIBA Oceania Championships will be played on August 15.
Quotes attributable to Premier of Victoria, Daniel Andrews
“Our war chest will ensure Victoria grabs the biggest and best events, to keep our economy strong.”
“Victoria is the major events capital of Australia, and our first budget will ensure we stay that way. Our major events keep our restaurants and hotels full, they grow tourism and create jobs.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, Tourism and Major Events, John Eren
“With our long list of NBA stars, there has never been a better time to bring our international side back to Rod Laver Arena.”
“It’s the perfect chance to get behind our Opals as they begin their campaign for Olympic Gold.”