The Australian Centre for Regional Events recently conducted The Pulse of Regional Events: Insights from the 2025 Industry Survey to better understand the landscape of regional events across Australia, and the results are now in. The survey, completed in late 2025, received responses from a diverse cross‑section of the sector, including local councils (30.19%), not‑for‑profits and community groups (41.51%), tourism organisations (5.66%) and private organisers (15.09%).
The feedback provides a clear picture of the opportunities and challenges currently facing the industry. A key standout from the survey was the overall positivity within the sector; sentiment has shifted from one of struggling to survive to one of optimism and renewed confidence in what regional events can achieve.
The regional events sector remains remarkably optimistic despite the hurdles of recent years. Over 71% of respondents reported feeling positive, very positive, or somewhat positive about the future of their events. This confidence is driven by a strong sense of growth in the attendee experience, with 70% of organisers indicating that the overall event experience is improving year on year.
However, the survey also revealed a more nuanced reality regarding the “engine room” of these events:
- Community Backing: While 41% of respondents see community support improving, a significant 35.9% feel it is staying the same, suggesting a need for fresh engagement strategies.
- Personal Motivation: Organisers remain committed, with 65% reporting their motivation to run events is either increasing or holding steady. Yet this dedication is tested by declining team and volunteer support, which 41% of respondents noted is getting worse.
- Financial Pressures: Financial viability remains a concern, with nearly 29% of organisers reporting that their event’s financial health is declining.
Read More