COVID-19 Update (6 May 2020)

As we commence another month in our ‘new world’, the MEA Board and Team is keen to update you on the work being undertaken by MEA in response to the challenges COVID-19 has brought to our sector.

Through our active participation in the Business Events Council of Australia (BECA), along with our industry colleagues, MEA has assisted in the formulation of the Response and Recovery Framework that is guiding the Federal Government in their consideration of our industry and our needs. Significant work has been undertaken to inform Government of the impact of COVID-19 and what we need to recover, understanding the nature of our sector and the planning timeframes we operate within. We are certainly making solid progress with this dialogue.

BECA is also actively generating business media coverage on its approach which is supported by MEA and shared on our own platforms.

We are all keen to return to business and are obviously guided by the Government restrictions and the health and safety guidelines to ensure this is done correctly to protect our people, our clients and their stakeholders. Consideration needs to be given to the measures we will need to take across all levels of our operations including food service, exhibition engagement, traffic flow within venues, room capacities, staff training etc.

Board member Beverley Williamson is representing MEA on the BECA SubCommittee to consider the hygiene and safety approach our industry will need to undertake across our supply chain to enable us to commence operation and is advising Federal Government accordingly. On a state level too, Board Members Michael Firman and Suzana Bishop are also actively involved in formulating guidelines to inform authorities and industry alike. It is important we have industry driven cohesive guidelines that allow us all to operate effectively and  safely across the country.

We also encourage you to play your part in easing restrictions and commence the recovery process by downloading the COVID19 Safe App.

The Board and the MEA team are committed to assisting you, your businesses and your people through these challenging times. The Board is reaching out to our membership but also welcome any feedback you would like to share as to how we can support you.