Big Things Are Taking Off

Avalon Airport Expansion Boosts Geelong and The Bellarine’s Business Events Appeal

Geelong and The Bellarine’s reputation as a well-connected and fast-evolving business events destination continues to strengthen, with Avalon Airport announcing the long-awaited return of international flights - the first step in a broader plan to expand its international offering in the years ahead. The news comes alongside additional domestic services and significant investment to enhance access to the region.

Jetstar will launch five return flights per week between Avalon and Denpasar, Bali, from March 2026 — marking the first international service to operate from the airport since 2020. The carrier will also reintroduce flights between Avalon and Adelaide and increase services to Brisbane, further improving connectivity to and from the region.

Avalon Airport will invest more than $31 million to support the expansion, with the Victorian Government contributing funding for a new bus service linking Lara Station to the airport and its growing industrial precinct.

Ari Suss, Avalon Airport Chief Executive, said the increased flight activity highlights the region’s strong travel demand.

“It’s taken some time for the industry to recover, but we’re now seeing the scale and demand that justify significant expansion. Big things are happening at Avalon — and this is just the beginning,” Suss said.
“With more international and domestic routes coming online, Avalon is fast becoming a hub for accessible travel into Geelong and The Bellarine.”

The expansion comes at a pivotal time for the regional business events sector. In 2026, Geelong will welcome the opening of the world-class Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre and the adjoining Crowne Plaza Geelong, creating new opportunities for large-scale conferences, exhibitions, and corporate gatherings.

Tamie Ryan, Convention Bureau Manager at Business Events Geelong, said the growing number of flight options enhances the region’s appeal for event organisers.

“Ease of access is an important consideration for planners, and the return of international flights — together with new and expanded domestic routes — makes it even easier for delegates to reach our region,” Ryan said.
“With Nyaal Banyul and the new Crowne Plaza opening in 2026, the timing couldn’t be better for business events to look to Geelong and The Bellarine as their next destination.”

Jetstar Chief Executive, Stephanie Tully, echoed the sentiment, noting the broader benefits for the region.

“This investment will see thousands more customers fly through Melbourne’s second airport gateway, supporting the economic growth of Melbourne, Geelong, and The Bellarine ,” Tully said.

As international and domestic connectivity grows, and with major new venues on the horizon, Geelong and The Bellarine are well positioned to welcome more delegates, more often - with Avalon Airport paving the way for a new era of accessibility and opportunity.