Australian and New Zealand Events Industry Poised for Significant Growth in 2025
The events industry in Australia and New Zealand is anticipating a period of substantial growth in 2025, according to the recently released Cvent Event Industry Report 2025. This report, commissioned by Cvent, a global leader in event technology, and conducted by the independent research consultancy Censuswide, highlights an overwhelmingly positive sentiment among event professionals.
Surveying 150 senior event planners, marketers, and decision-makers across Australia and New Zealand, the research reveals a robust outlook for diverse event formats. Key findings include:
- In-person Events: A projected 57% increase in in-person events, indicating a strong return to face-to-face interactions post-pandemic.
- Digital Events: Continued growth in webinars (56%), virtual events (54%), and hybrid events (45%), showcasing the industry’s embrace of digital innovation alongside the value of personal connections.
- Spending Increases: 77% of respondents plan to increase spending on events, with 100% prioritizing strategic event expenditure.
Jack Ukil, Senior Director and Country Head at Cvent Australia, commented on the promising figures, emphasizing a 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 stated. “There is also a clear emphasis on accessibility, now viewed as a fundamental standard across all events.”
Technology and Innovation Driving the Industry
Another defining feature of the 2025 outlook is the industry’s willingness to invest in advanced technologies. Approximately 24% of event planners identified technology as their top budget priority, ahead of event promotion (17%) and content speakers (16%). This trend aligns with government initiatives promoting digital transformation and innovation across various sectors, such as the Australian Government’s Digital Economy Strategy and Innovation New Zealand. These initiatives provide support frameworks designed to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies.
Notably, the report showcases Australia’s significant readiness to embrace artificial intelligence (AI). Currently, 75% of surveyed organizations utilize AI-driven platforms for planning, managing, designing, and marketing events. Furthermore, 45% of respondents expressed strong enthusiasm for adopting and trialing new event tech solutions in the coming year.
Sustainability and Accessibility as Key Priorities
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, motivating 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 also a high priority, with 68% of organizations integrating accessibility targets into their event strategies. Government resources like the Australian Disability Strategy and New Zealand’s Office for Disability Issues further emphasize the importance of inclusivity in event planning.
In conclusion, the Cvent Event Industry Report 2025 paints an optimistic picture for the events sector across Australia and New Zealand. Backed by government support for innovation, strong sustainability measures, and enhanced accessibility practices, the industry is well-positioned to deliver impactful and inclusive experiences for diverse audiences.
