Melbourne has been ranked the number one city in Australia for International conventions and number nine in Asia Pacific, Minister for Tourism and Major Events Louise Asher announced.

The Country and City Ranking Report 2011, created by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) revealed Melbourne was also ranked at number 31 in the world, up nine places from the year before.

Ms Asher said the results were an outstanding success for Melbourne and a true indication of the city’s business events offering.

“To be recognised officially by the top congress and convention association in the world is a major coup for the city and one that we are incredibly proud of,” Ms Asher said.

“Furthermore, to be ranked ahead of Sydney and Brisbane, our biggest competition in Australia, is perhaps the most important indicator that our city’s facilities and overall international appeal are outstanding.”

Melbourne Convention and Visitor Bureau (MCVB) chief executive officer Karen Bolinger said Melbourne’s status as Australia’s leading business events destination was getting stronger and stronger.

“Melbourne is the top choice for many of the world’s major international associations holding regular congresses and conventions.

“These groups are attracted to Melbourne for a number of reasons, primarily the large pool of intellectual capital the city can offer, as well as the city’s world-class infrastructure.”

The city hosted 62 major international meetings during the qualifying period and in the next two years, will continue to strengthen its reputation as a leading business city with the hosting of seven of the world’s largest medical and scientific conferences.