The Australian Event Awards is pleased to announce the appointment of Peter Jones AM as Co-Chair, joining current Co-Chair Peter Rix in leading the program as it continues to recognise excellence across Australia’s events industry.

Peter Jones is widely regarded as one of Australia’s leading event producers, with more than three decades of experience creating and delivering major events. Based in Melbourne, Peter and his team have received more than thirty industry awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Australian Event Awards.

In 2018, Peter was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the Australia Day Honours for significant service to the tourism and hospitality sector, particularly for his influence as an advisor, event management professional and contributor to the community. In 2025, he was also recognised as a Life Member of the Victorian Tourism and Events Industry Council.

Throughout his career, Peter has been a strong advocate for the events industry, dedicating significant time to supporting its development and future growth. He currently serves as a Trustee of the Victorian Convention and Event Trust and as a Board Member of the Northern Territory Major Events Company, while also holding the title of Emeritus Professor of Event Management at William Angliss Institute.

Peter has also played an important role in the Australian Event Awards program itself, serving as lead judge for the Corporate and Business Events category over the past five years.

Reflecting on the role of the Awards in the industry, Peter Jones said:

“The Event Awards are a true reflection of how our industry recognises the amazing work so many individuals and organisations are doing every day for their clients. They represent the best of the best.”

He added that the standard of event delivery continues to evolve.

“Looking back over the past five years, one of the most striking things is how far we’ve come in what we’re able to create and deliver in such a short time. Even after many years in the industry, I’m still constantly learning from the new and innovative ways events are being created and delivered today.”

Peter Rix welcomed the appointment and the experience Peter Jones will bring to the program.

“I am delighted to welcome Peter Jones to the Co-Chair role at the Australian Event Awards.
A Melbourne icon, connected, industrious and generous in his mentorship and encouragement of future generations of event professionals. Peter’s knowledge, compassion and industry leadership will provide a significant contribution to the continued success of these Awards. I look forward to collaborating with him and continuing to recognise all that is creative, innovative and ground-breaking. A privilege to have him on board.”

The Australian Event Awards is the national awards program for Australia’s events industry, celebrating excellence, creativity and innovation across all sectors of event delivery.

Entries for the 2026 Australian Event Awards opened 25 March, alongside registrations for the Australian Event Symposium, which will take place 19–21 October 2026.