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About the Cairns Convention Centre upgrade

The Cairns Convention Centre has undergone a $176 million expansion and refurbishment to:

  • maximise the centre’s capabilities
  • modernise the facilities
  • bring new business to the tropical north.

Known for its prime location, premium food offering and prestigious events, the new look Centre has facilities to cater for multiple functions, helping the city to attract new conferences and events of even greater sizes and complexity.

View the image gallery.

The refurbishment works were completed and the centre operator ASM Global held their first event on 12 May 2021.

The construction works on the expansion reached practical completion in July 2023 and events are now hosted across the entire venue.

The upgraded Centre will support ongoing employment opportunities in hospitality, logistics, security, and maintenance.

The refurbishment

This refurbishment stage was completed in early May 2021 and included:

  • the replacement of roof sheeting,
  • replacement of building services including air-conditioning and lighting,
  • the full refurbishment of all public spaces including amenities and
  • back of house spaces including kitchen and administration facilities.

The expansion

The expansion stage reached practical completion in July 2023 and delivered an additional 10,500 square metres including a large undercover, tropically planted drop-off and entry forecourt, an expanded main entry lobby, a 410-seat plenary lecture space, three 120-seat meeting rooms, exhibition space for up to 30 display booths, a 500-seat rooftop banquet space and sky terrace with spectacular views over Trinity Inlet.

The upgraded centre has facilities to cater for multiple functions, helping the city to attract new conferences and events of even greater sizes and complexity.

Supporting Queensland locals

This $176 million investment in Cairns created significant employment opportunities, with more than 1000 locals inducted on site.

The project was carried out by Managing Contractor Lendlease in line with the Buy Queensland approach to ensure suppliers to government meet best practice principles.

Find out more about how the project supported Queenslanders.

Last updated: 
5 October 2023