October Special — 50% off Spotlights and exhibitor listsSee prices

    Dates

    16–19 Mar 2027

    City / country

    Melbourne, Australia

    Venue

    Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

    Time

    9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

    20 Floor Picks

    Matched booths for APPEX - Australasia’s Processing and Packaging Expo 2027

    Get my picks

    Exhibiting at?

    Enter your business email to get a free first Exclusive Spotlight worth 250$.

    Explore Spotlights
    Official Website Register / Buy Tickets

    Are you the organiser of this event?

    Event overview

    Overview

    APPEX 2027 is Australia's largest processing and packaging expo, returning to Melbourne from March 16-19, 2027.

    This event will showcase the latest technology, innovation, and solutions in the processing and packaging industry, providing a platform for networking and business opportunities.

    TL;DR

    1. 1Scale and Focus: APPEX 2027 is Australia's largest processing and packaging expo, with around 30,000 sq m of exhibition space at MCEC.
    2. 2Dates and City: The show runs 16-19 March 2027 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre in Melbourne.
    3. 3Free Access: Visitor registration is free and open online, with badges required for entry to the trade-only show.
    4. 4Product Scope: Exhibits cover processing machinery, primary packaging materials, and traceability, labelling, coding and printing.
    5. 5Venue and Logistics: MCEC sits at 1 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf, about 7-8 minutes by tram or bus from the city centre.

    Why visit

    APPEX 2027 gives visitors first-hand access to Australia's largest processing and packaging showcase, with around 30,000 sq m of working machinery, materials and technology at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. - See live demonstrations and product launches across processing, primary packaging, and traceability, labelling, coding and printing. - Compare suppliers side by side and source solutions for efficiency, automation, safety and traceability. - Meet technical experts and industry speakers, including specialists from organisations such as GS1 Australia, in free sessions. - Network with buyers and engineers from food, beverage, FMCG and industrial packaging supply chains. - Free registration keeps travel budgets focused on flights and accommodation, with the venue minutes from the CBD.

    Why exhibit

    Exhibitors at APPEX 2027 will connect with over 10,000 decision-makers, showcase their latest products, and enhance their brand visibility in a competitive market. This event provides a unique platform to generate high-quality leads and foster business relationships. APPEX 2027 is crucial for the processing and packaging industry as it brings together key decision-makers and innovators to explore the latest trends and technologies. This event fosters collaboration and drives.

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Decision-makers from food and beverage industries
    Packaging engineers and designers
    Supply chain and logistics professionals
    Manufacturers seeking automation solutions
    Retail buyers and procurement specialists
    Sustainability officers focused on eco-friendly packaging

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Machinery manufacturers
    Packaging material suppliers
    Food processing equipment providers
    Logistics and materials handling companies
    Technology solution providers for packaging
    Consultants in processing and packaging innovation

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Packaging machinery and equipment
    Food processing technologies
    Sustainable packaging solutions
    Logistics and supply chain innovations
    Ancillary equipment for processing
    Materials for packaging applications

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Open in Google Maps

    Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

    1 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf VIC 3006, Australia

    Floor plans & maps

    Floor plan (PDF)

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Free registration

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    9:30 AM –5:30 PM (March 16 – 18), 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM (March 19)
    Register

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    APPMA (Australian Packaging and Processing Machinery Association)

    Website

    Exhibitions & Trade Fairs

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Current edition

    2027

    Forecast — not final

    Testimonials

    As an APPMA Member of long-standing, Linco was pleased to finally have an all-of-packaging and processing industry event for the industry and by the industry.

    Linco Food Systems · 2024

    The calibre of visitors to our stand far exceeded our expectations. We engaged with a significant number of high-quality leads, all actively seeking solutions to optimise their industrial automation processes.

    SICK · 2024

    Our aim at APPEX 2024 was to develop our brand awareness as well as engage with the industry and customers on future business. APPEX 2024 delivered the perfect platform for executing our business plan for the next 5 years.

    FlexCAM Pty Ltd · 2024

    APPEX is the only trade show in Australia and New Zealand that offers a complete package of information relevant to any food or beverage production facility. It single-handedly provides the end user with all the tools necessary to achieve their production goals.

    Matrix Process Solutions · 2024

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    APPEX 2027 is Australia's largest processing and packaging expo, returning to Melbourne from March 16-19, 2027. This event will showcase the latest technology, innovation, and solutions in the processing and packaging industry, providing a platform for networking and business opportunities. APPEX 2027 is crucial for the processing and packaging industry as it brings together key decision-makers and innovators to explore the latest trends and technologies. This event fosters collaboration and drives the.

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    Visitors typically include Decision-makers from food and beverage industries, Packaging engineers and designers, Supply chain and logistics professionals, Manufacturers seeking automation solutions. Event dates: March 16-19, 2027. Location: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Showcasing 30,000m² of exhibition space. Featuring live demonstrations and expert insights. APPEX - Australasia’s Processing and Packaging Expo 2027 attracts an audience aligned with the organiser's published visitor positioning.

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Exhibitors at APPEX 2027 will connect with over 10,000 decision-makers, showcase their latest products, and enhance their brand visibility in a competitive market. This event provides a unique platform to generate high-quality leads and foster business relationships. APPEX 2027 is crucial for the processing and packaging industry as it brings together key decision-makers and innovators to explore the latest trends and technologies. This event fosters collaboration and drives.

    Intelligence

    Market context

    Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

    Melbourne, VIC, Australia

    Why it matters

    Attending APPEX - Australasia’s Processing and Packaging Expo 2027 on 2027-03-16 to 2027-03-19 in Melbourne lets buyers and specifiers benchmark suppliers, see live demonstrations, and compress months of vendor meetings into one focused trade visit — worthwhile when your category roadmap aligns with the official exhibitor profile.

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Digital buyer journeys

    Professionals expect pre-show agendas, product finders, and meeting tools; suppliers align demos and literature to short on-stand decision cycles.

    02

    Sustainability in procurement

    Energy use, recyclable materials, and carbon reporting increasingly appear in RFPs and exhibitor scorecards across industrial trade fairs.

    03

    Automation and labour efficiency

    Visitors benchmark machinery, software, and services that reduce downtime, staffing pressure, and total cost of ownership.

    04

    Regional supply-chain resilience

    Buyers diversify suppliers across Europe, MENA, and Asia while favouring vendors with local service, spare parts, and training.

    05

    Hybrid engagement models

    Live demonstrations remain decisive, but follow-up webinars, digital catalogues, and year-round supplier portals extend the commercial window after the show.

    Food trade fair circuit

    Book hotels and meetings 8–12 weeks before opening day; peer shows in the same sector often fall in adjacent months.

    Buyers covering food often plan APPEX - Australasia’s Processing and Packaging Expo 2027 alongside regional peer shows to compare products, pricing, and service coverage across markets.

    Pre-show

    Confirm exhibitor meetings and product demos for APPEX - Australasia’s Processing and Packaging Expo 2027.

    Show week

    Hall walk-throughs, live demos, and supplier negotiations.

    Peer events are widely known sector fairs; verify dates on each organiser website before booking.

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · USD

    Arrival airports

    Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

    MEL

    Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine)

    Primary international gateway for Melbourne.

    about 25 km (15.5 mi) by road

    to venue

    about 20–25 minutes by car or taxi

    by car

    AVV

    Avalon Airport

    Secondary airport for some domestic and low-cost services.

    about 54 km (34 mi) by road

    to venue

    about 38–50 minutes by car

    by car

    Hotel tiers

    A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

    budget
    Melbourne CBD

    Not yet confirmed

    4-star property; breakfast for a fee, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, parking, bar, restaurant, kitchen in rooms.

    budget
    Melbourne CBD

    Not yet confirmed

    3-star property; breakfast for a fee, free Wi-Fi, paid parking, air conditioning, restaurant, room service, smoke-free.

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    tram

    Estimated costAUD 6
    Best forElizabeth St/Collins St (Stop 5) to Casino/MCEC/Clarendon St (Stop 124A)

    Yarra Trams service every 10 minutes, journey about 8 minutes.

    bus

    Estimated costAUD 6
    Best forCollins St/Queen St to Clarendon St/City Rd

    Metropolitan bus every 20 minutes, journey about 7 minutes.

    taxi

    Estimated costEUR 40–90 / USD 45–100 taxi or rideshare to venue
    Best forMelbourne Airport (Tullamarine) (MEL) to Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

    About 20-25 minutes by car or taxi once clear of airport traffic.

    taxi

    Estimated costEUR 40–90 / USD 45–100 taxi or rideshare to venue
    Best forAvalon Airport (AVV) to Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

    About 38-50 minutes by car.

    parking

    Estimated costCashless paid parking - confirm current rates
    Best forMelbourne Exhibition Centre car park, under the venue via Normanby Road

    Open 24 hours, height clearance 2.0 m, first come first served. Additional parking at DFO South Wharf and Crown Melbourne.

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa not required
    ATA Carnet: check with organiser

    Travellers with eligible passports may use the Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) or eVisitor (subclass 651) instead of a full visitor visa; check eligibility with the Department of Home Affairs before travel.

    Official visa page

    Weather

    March 2027

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    Confirm mobile roaming or local SIM options for business visitors to Australia.

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

    Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

    Registration

    Confirm registration and venue access with the organiser before travelling to Melbourne.

    Arrival

    Arrive early on the first show day for orientation and security screening.

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

    Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

    Flights

    Destination: MEL

    Book flights to MEL when possible for the shortest transfer to the venue; compare AVV only if fares are materially lower.

    Visa

    Most overseas business visitors need a valid Australian visa before travel. To attend a conference, trade fair or seminar the standard option is the Visitor visa (subclass 600) Business Visitor stream, while holders of eligible passports may instead use the Electronic Travel Authority (subclass 601) or eVisitor (subclass 651). Business visitor visa holders may negotiate contracts and attend the show but cannot work for or sell directly to Australian businesses.

    Estimated cost: Varies by visa type and nationality (check official site).

    Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.

    Taking part in a conference, trade fair or seminar is an allowed business visitor activity; paid work for an Australian organisation and direct selling to the public are not permitted.

    Official

    Hotels

    Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

    Check-in (recommended)

    2027-03-16

    Check-out (recommended)

    2027-03-19

    Areas to stay

    Melbourne CBD

    budget

    Not yet confirmed

    budget

    Not yet confirmed

    Transport

    Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

    Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) (MEL): about 20–25 minutes by car or taxi; Avalon Airport (AVV): about 38–50 minutes by car. Allow road or rail time to Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.

    Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre: Melbourne CBD: YHA Melbourne Central; Melbourne CBD: YEHS Melbourne Hotel CBD.

    Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Melbourne; confirm local availability before travel.

    Public transit: Check local bus/metro options for routes to Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

    Parking: On-site parking is available at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre; confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: March 2027

    Packing: March 2027

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    14

    Check passport validity and Australian visa options — Confirm whether you need the Visitor visa (subclass 600) Business Visitor stream, or can use an ETA (subclass 601) or eVisitor (subclass 651).

    13

    Book flights to Melbourne — Melbourne Airport (MEL) is about 20-25 minutes from the venue; Avalon Airport (AVV) is about 38-50 minutes.

    12

    Reserve accommodation near the venue — Hotels in the South Wharf and Melbourne CBD precincts sit within about 1 km of MCEC for the 16-19 March 2027 dates.

    11

    Submit your visa application if required — Apply through the Department of Home Affairs; processing varies by nationality, so apply early.

    10

    Register online for a free visitor badge — Registration is open at appex.com.au/register and all visitors must register.

    9

    Download the floor plan and programme — Review the APPEX 2027 floor plan and session listings to plan your route.

    7

    Pre-schedule meetings with exhibitors — Shortlist suppliers across processing, primary packaging, and traceability, labelling, coding and printing.

    5

    Arrange local transport — Trams and buses reach the venue for about AUD 6; the venue car park is cashless with 2.0 m clearance.

    3

    Pack for Melbourne in March and prepare documents — Bring your visa grant notice, registration confirmation, business cards and meeting materials.

    1

    Arrive and collect your badge — MCEC is at 1 Convention Centre Pl, South Wharf; show days open from 09:30.

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    Pick the closest answer for each. Your recommendation updates live.

    QUESTION 1 OF 6

    What is your primary role?

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    You need to source machinery, packaging materials or coding and labelling solutions and can commit 2-4 days on site.

    Best for

    Packaging, processing, food and beverage engineers and procurement managers comparing suppliers and seeing live equipment in one trip.

    Min. budget

    $350.00

    Timeline

    4-6 weeks for flights, hotel and any visa application.

    Risks

    Melbourne hotel rates rise around major events in March.

    Visa processing time varies by nationality, so apply early.

    exhibit

    You have new equipment or a product launch and want qualified leads from across Australia and New Zealand.

    Best for

    Processing and packaging equipment OEMs, materials suppliers and service providers targeting Australasian buyers.

    Min. budget

    $2,200.00

    Timeline

    3-6 months for stand design, freight and organiser forms.

    Risks

    Stand space and prime halls can sell out for a 30,000 sq m show.

    Freight and customs lead time for demo machinery.

    skip

    Your products or buying needs are unrelated to processing, packaging, labelling or traceability.

    Best for

    Professionals outside the processing and packaging sectors or unable to travel to Melbourne in March 2027.

    Min. budget

    Not yet confirmed

    Timeline

    Not applicable.

    Risks

    No major risks listed.

    Book with

    Partners

    Gallery

    Photos

    Official imagery from APPEX - Australasia’s Processing and Packaging Expo 2027
    Official imagery from APPEX - Australasia’s Processing and Packaging Expo 2027

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    Glossary

    1
    APPEX
    Australasia’s Processing and Packaging Expo, a major industry event for processing and packaging professionals.
    2
    MCEC
    Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the venue for APPEX 2027.
    3
    APPMA
    Australian Packaging and Processing Machinery Association, the owner of APPEX.
    4
    Exhibitor
    A company or individual that displays products or services at the expo.
    5
    Visitor
    A professional attending the expo to explore products, services, and networking opportunities.
    6
    Registration
    The process of signing up to attend the event, which is required for all visitors.
    7
    Floor Plan
    A layout of the exhibition space showing the location of exhibitors and features.
    8
    Live Demonstrations
    Interactive presentations showcasing products and technologies in real-time.
    9
    Networking
    Opportunities for attendees to connect and build professional relationships.
    10
    Sponsorship
    A partnership where companies support the event in exchange for promotional opportunities.

    Trust footer

    Sources

    6

    References

    1

    Publishers

    0

    Date checked

    1

    APPEX

    Digital business cards for the show floor

    Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.

    Create a free card