Ensuring a safe and seamless experience for high-profile dignitaries | 2022 Indian Ocean Defence and Security Conference

Background:

First held in 2018, the Indian Ocean Defence and Security Conference is a biennial event that showcases Western Australia and Australia’s world-class defence industry and research capabilities. It is hosted by the West Australian Government through Defence West, in partnership with the Perth USAsia Centre and the University of Western Australia’s Defence and Security Institute.

Challenge:

As the country’s flagship event of its kind, the Indian Ocean Defence and Security Conference attracted 500 industry representatives and more than 50 speakers and panellists comprising dignitaries across government, industry and academia. This included the Chief of Army, Chief of Navy, Australia’s Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, the former Admiral of the Indian Navy, and other high-level national and international attendees.

Due to the event’s scale and sensitive nature, it was crucial for high-profile attendees to receive seamless transportation, accommodation and on-site management.

Solutions:

• Prior to their attendance, each speaker received a pack outlining vital information about the Conference, the program, other speakers and private social events.
• Most high-profile attendees were accommodated at the same hotel for ease of transporting to and from the venue.
• Additional security personnel were employed to protect high-profile speakers and dignitaries.
• Following transport to the venue, high-profile attendees were taken to a separate lift access point manned by conference staff and security, then transferred directly to the conference floor.
• A separate registration terminal was set up in the main registration area for high-profile attendees to receive their name badges quickly and privately.
• High-profile attendees had access to separate suites at the venue where they could settle in or hold confidential meetings prior to and during the Conference.
• Each high-profile speaker received a thorough briefing from a member of the conference management team prior to delivering their presentation on stage. They were then met again following their presentation and escorted to designated seating or private transport.

Outcome:

The Indian Ocean Defence and Security Conference hosted high-profile speakers, dignitaries and other visitors in a safe and seamless manner, thanks to the meticulous security measures in place. This contributed to the overall success of the event and the positive experience had by delegates.