Nyaal Banyul reaches significant project milestone

The Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre precinct, being delivered by Development Victoria, is being boosted with $456 million invested through the Geelong City Deal.

Together with project partners Regional Development Victoria and Plenary Conventions, the project will deliver a world class precinct which will meet the city's growing tourism demand and strengthen the region's visitor economy.

A significant project milestone was reached in early December, with the formal Partnerships Victoria agreement signed between the Victorian Government and Plenary Conventions, confirming Plenary Conventions initial investment of $120 million to secure what will be Geelong’s largest hotel, with a further $130 million earmarked to create a mixed-use development within the precinct down the track.

Once complete the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre precinct will be home to a purpose-built convention and events centre, a 200-room Crowne Plaza hotel, large public plaza, hospitality spaces and a commercial office tower.

Other key inclusions made possible through the partnership is capacity within the public plaza to showcase 60,000 years of Australian history recognising Traditional Owners Wadawurrung’s significant cultural heritage and connection to Djilang (Geelong) – giving international visitors a unique experience as they step through the plaza.

The public plaza celebrates the return of events and community gatherings to the site, which was used as a gathering place for the Wadawurrung people for thousands of years - setting the precinct apart from anywhere else in the world.

The plaza will be used year-round for informal gatherings, public events and cultural celebrations, celebrating the fusion of ancient history with today.

Major Australian construction team Built is leading work on site which will be a major driver of jobs and economic growth, supporting hundreds of jobs during construction.

Built is also working with local community organisation gforce to recruit up to 28 new local apprentices and trainees who are experiencing disadvantage in entering the workforce.

Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre is expected to be complete in 2026 and will be one of the first major civic developments in central Geelong under the Central Geelong Framework Plan which is a 30-year vision to support growth and change in central Geelong.

The Victorian Government is investing $423 million into the project as part of the Geelong City Deal, with the Australian government contributing $30 million and $3 million from the City of Greater Geelong.

The Geelong City Deal is a commitment between the Australian and Victorian governments and the City of Greater Geelong. It is revitalising the city and regional economy, encouraging visitors to spend more time in the region by capitalising on its natural assets.

For more information on the Geelong City Deal and precinct visit the Australian Government website.

Development Victoria is proud to be overseeing the delivery of the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre.