Gold Coast Business Events, in partnership with Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), coordinated a collaborative bid which had strong support from South East Queensland universities and was championed by business events ambassador Professor Terry Flew.
Gold Coast Business Events director Anna Case said securing this event was a real coup for the Gold Coast and demonstrated the strong capabilities of the destination to host major international conferences.
"ICA was seeking a destination that would make their members' eyes light up, and the Gold Coast undoubtedly has that unique appeal to international delegates," she said.
"The organisation had clearly defined criteria for host cities and aspects such as easy and affordable accessibility, world-class meeting facilities and reasonably priced accommodation were all critical in the decision. The host city also had to demonstrate the availability of a strong support team on the ground and our thriving local academic community were instrumental in demonstrating the spirit of cooperation between universities."
TEQ chief executive Leanne Coddington said the ICA conference, which will be held at the Gold Coast Conference and Exhibition Centre, will showcase Queensland to an influential international audience.
"This is a significant business event on TEQ's calendar which will bring thousands of delegates and profile Queensland amongst communications leaders from across the globe," she said.