Destination NSW’s mission in the events sector is to identify, attract and nurture events in Sydney and regional NSW. In this section we detail our event strategies and connect event organisers and industry partners to information, resources and assistance programs.
Event Strategies
Each year hundreds of events are held throughout Sydney and NSW. They express the diversity and dynamism of the State and also showcase the facilities, expertise and creativity of our events industry.
Events can bring a broad range of economic, promotional and community benefits to a destination - which is why the events sector is such a major priority for Destination NSW.
We take a highly strategic approach to ensuring that Sydney continues to fulfil its potential as a host for global events; and that regional NSW shares in the economic and community benefits created by events.
Our principal area of delivery is the development and promotion of the NSW Events Calendar - which generates more than $600 million in annual revenue for NSW.
The level of support that our organisation gives to an event is contingent on a rigorous assessment process. This identifies upfront the key benefits that an event can bring to a host destination.
Strategic consideration is given to a broad range of potential impacts including visitation, expenditure, seasonal hotel occupancy, potential to encourage local skills development and economic flow on to the local business community.
The ways in which an event can contribute to destination brand appeal and community pride are also part of the strategic assessment.
Sydney & NSW Events Calendar
The Sydney & NSW Events Calendar includes thousands of events which appeal to a broad spectrum of audiences and experiences.
Destination NSW invests directly in more than 110 events and supports many others with marketing and community programs.
The calendar includes thousands of community, arts, cultural and sporting events, and can be accessed via our consumer websites sydney.com/events and visitnsw.com/events which attract more than eight million visits per year.
Key Sydney events include:
- New Year in Sydney: Includes New Year’s Eve celebrations and Sydney Festival
- Vivid Sydney: A winter celebration of creativity, light, music and ideas. Features Vivid Live at the Sydney Opera House
- Sydney International Art Series: Brings the world’s most extraordinary art exhibitions exclusively to Sydney each year
Event Investment
Destination NSW works closely with the arts, entertainment, sports and lifestyle sectors to present a healthy and vibrant annual program of events that delivers positive results to the NSW visitor economy. This includes financial investment, development of strategic marketing plans, product development and helpful contacts.
In addition, Destination NSW has specific programs aimed at increasing the impact of events in Regional NSW.
In partnership with these sectors, Destination NSW’s investment in events drives strategic and economic outcomes for the state.
More information on event investment
Business Events
Business events are a crucial part of Destination NSW’s strategy for tourism growth. We work in partnership with Business Events Sydney to attract conferences, incentives and meetings to Sydney and regional NSW.
More information on business events
