The body representing the events and exhibition industry has requested the Chief Medical Officer, Professor Brendan Murphy make a public statement declaring that despite fears regarding the Coronavirus, there is no reason to cancel or postpone events such as exhibitions, conferences and other business meetings.
Claudia Sagripanti, Chief Executive, Exhibition & Event Association of Australasia (EEAA), the peak industry body representing the sector, said it was important the Australian Government does what other governments have done internationally, and declare public events low risk for the spread of the virus.
“We want to reassure event attendees that events are, and can continue, operating in light of current advice from Government.
“The industry has already responded by implementing guidelines issued by the World Health Organisation and the global leader in exhibitions UFI, such as additional cleaning procedures, providing hand sanitisers, upgrading WHS protocols and asking event attendees who feel unwell to stay home,” said Ms Sagripanti.
The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) released a statement on 8 March stating:
“At this time the AHPPC consider that public events should proceed, but strongly recommend people that are unwell with cough or fever or other respiratory symptoms should not attend public events or gatherings[1].”
However, the EEAA calls for the government to elevate the message and call for calm in the community.
“We are constantly monitoring the developing situation. We are drawing on current advice and information provided by both Federal and State government authorities and the recommended precautions from the World Health Organisation. At this time, there is no clear reason for events to be cancelled,” said Ms Sagripanti.
To support the businesses affected, EEAA in conjunction with Meetings & Events Association (MEA) will host COVID-19 Information Exchanges, in Sydney, Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide.
The Chief Medical Office and Health Departments have been invited to answer questions from the industry.
“The events and exhibition industry is resilient, however, we need to know that all is being done to support this sector which contributes over $28 billion to the economy and provides 180,000 jobs[2].”
Information Exchanges details: https://eeaa.com.au/event/covid-19-information-exchanges/
ABOUT EEAA
The Exhibition and Event Association of Australasia (EEAA) is the peak industry Association representing Organisers, Association Organisers, Venues and Suppliers within the exhibition and event sector. The work of the Association is a testament to the Power of Exhibitions as a driver of the economy and in particular economic development, trade and export, employment, visitation and knowledge sharing. A not-for-profit organisation, EEAA works to ensure industry growth by encouraging high industry standards, promoting the professionalism of EEAA Members and highlighting the unique business opportunities which exist through exhibitions.
