Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren today announced the appointment of prominent Melbourne businessman and philanthropist Paul Little AO as the new Chair of Visit Victoria.
After successfully leading the transition of Visit Victoria, interim Chair Sir Rod Eddington AO has handed over the reins to Deputy Chair Paul Little.
Mr Little will now spearhead the dedicated team that is working to boost our visitor economy and ensure it continues to benefit every corner of Victoria.
Earmarked by Sir Rod as his successor, Mr Little brings an unrivalled record of corporate success to the role at a time of greater competition from at home and abroad.
Along with real estate, property, aviation and lifestyle experience through the Little Group, he with wife Jane Hansen established the philanthropic Little Foundation, with a focus on supporting the arts.
We are exceedingly grateful for the 11 years of service Sir Rod has given as Chair of the old Victorian Major Events Company, and his leadership during the creation of Visit Victoria.
When we established Visit Victoria we said we’d attract the best of the best, and that’s exactly what we’re doing.
Created in July 2016, Visit Victoria has already secured and overseen the likes of Nitro Athletics, Kinky Boots, and the blockbuster clash between world football giants, Argentina and Brazil at the MCG in June.
The visitor economy is one of our great strengths, and through the Victorian Visitor Economy Strategy, we’re working to grow visitor spending to $36.5 billion each year by 2025 and create even more jobs in the sector.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism and Major Events John Eren
“Mr Little needs no introduction – he’ll help make Victoria stronger and a more attractive place for the world’s best to do business.”
“Sir Rod has done a stellar job in ushering in the new era that is Visit Victoria, and we sincerely thank him for his leadership and expertise.”
Quote attributable to Visit Victoria Chair Paul Little AO
“I’m looking forward to the challenge of growing our visitor economy and making sure Victoria remains the premium destination for major events, conferences, holiday makers and international students.”
Quote attributable to Outgoing Interim Chair of Visit Victoria Sir Rod Eddington AO
“It has been an honour and a privilege to have led the Victorian Major Events Company for 11 years and to act as interim Chair of Visit Victoria since July.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020