COVID has struck again, with the Australasian Gaming Expo (AGE) postponed again in 2021, as the NSW lockdown is extended and government rolls out the latest support measures.
With no end date in sight for the current NSW restrictions, in response to rapidly growing COVID case numbers and the heightened risk in the Delta variant, the Gaming Technologies Association (GTA), organiser of the AGE, reluctantly announced the event would not proceed next month as planned.
“Given the proximity to the AGE, border closures, and the unknown restrictions of the government’s ‘roadmap’ out of lockdown, we needed to act now,” said Chris Muir, GTA CEO.
“We’ve seen significant initiatives from AGE exhibitors over the last eighteen months as they support businesses with technology and physical distancing measures, and we’ll continue to connect buyers with sellers as our industry once again begins its road-to-recovery.”
The GTA worked with the ICC Sydney to find alternate dates, but largely due to its size, this proved impossible.
The 31st AGE will now run from 9 to 11 August 2022. More information HERE.
A raft of new State and Federal initiatives have been announced, including increased staff support and business grants, aimed at supporting businesses and staff during the current COVID lockdown.
The Australian Hotels Association NSW has welcomed the move, and praises all levels of government for acting quickly.
“The pubs might be closed, but the bills keep coming in,” bodes AHA NSW CEO John Whelan.
“This support will allow us to keep our head above water during this difficult time so we’re able to open our doors when the lockdown ends.
“It’s pleasing to see the Disaster Payment extended into regional NSW where businesses are dealing with their own tough set of restrictions.”
