Victoria will once again host the largest aviation, aerospace and defence exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere.
The Victorian Government has secured the return of the Australian International Airshow to Avalon next year.
It will be held from 23 to 28 February.
Held in Victoria since 1992, the biennial event features breathtaking flying displays alongside a major trade exhibition showcasing cutting-edge aviation, aerospace and defence technologies.
The 2025 event generated $240.9 million for Victoria’s economy and attracted record crowds.
Delivered by the AMDA Foundation in collaboration with the Royal Australian Air Force, the event connects Victorian supply-chain businesses with global decision-makers to unlock new commercial opportunities.
More than 900 companies exhibited at the trade show, drawing 291 official delegations from 43 nations.
Avalon 2025 also delivered an estimated $31.85 million in direct economic benefits for the Geelong region.
Last year’s trade show helped connect Victorian businesses with global industry leaders, including Southbank-based Lindo signing a Letter of Intent with aerospace giant Airbus to explore increased collaboration on its disinfectant lighting technology for aircraft.
Securing the event will further strengthen the Avalon Airport Industrial Precinct as a major regional economic hub.
The Labor Government has backed major investment in the precinct, including Hanwha Defence Australia’s $225 million Armoured Vehicle Centre of Excellence.
Labor has also supported Avalon Airport to establish a new $8 million dedicated freight handling and processing facility, while the new Route 18 bus service between Lara Station and the Airport is now running.
Victoria’s defence sector generates $10.9 billion in annual expenditure and supports more than 29,000 jobs across the state.
Only Labor is backing Victoria’s advanced manufacturing sector and securing the major events that drive jobs, investment and economic growth.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Colin Brooks
“The Avalon Airshow continues to open doors for Victorian businesses, creating jobs and showcasing the cutting-edge innovation happening right here in our state.”
“Securing the 2027 event reinforces Victoria’s position as a national leader in advanced manufacturing and defence industries.”
What they had to say:
“The Avalon Airshow is another world-class event that brings visitors from around the globe to Victoria and delivers huge benefits for local businesses and jobs.” - Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
“The Avalon Airshow brings thousands of visitors to our region, supporting local jobs and businesses – and we’re so proud to welcome the Airshow back to Avalon for 2027.” - Member for Lara Ella George
“This event puts Geelong on the global stage and highlights the important role our region plays in Victoria’s advanced manufacturing and defence industries.” - Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“The return of the Avalon Airshow will once again bring thousands of visitors to our region, delivering a strong boost for local tourism and hospitality.” - Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant
“The Avalon Airshow showcases the best of Victoria’s defence and advanced manufacturing industries while bringing visitors, investment and jobs to Western Victoria and the broader Geelong region.” - Member for Western Victoria Region Gayle Tierney
“Victoria has been the proud home of the Avalon Australian International Airshow for more than three decades, and we are delighted to continue our partnership with the Victorian State Government to present the 2027 event.” - AMDA Foundation CEO Justin Giddings
“Exhibiting at Airshow 2025 with the support of the Victorian Government, helped Lindo accelerate collaboration opportunities with Airbus.” - Lindo Group CEO & Founder Robert Gangi
For more information about the Avalon Australian International Air Show – visit their website HERE
