The news was announced today by Victorian Minister for Innovation, Services and Small Business Louise Asher and Penny Arcade president Robert Khoo. Next year's PAX Australia will be held at the Melbourne Showgrounds from 19-21 July.
The Victorian government will be helping to promote PAX in Melbourne via sponsorship and integration though a number of their gaming culture exhibitions and presentations.
Asher said that attracting PAX Australia to Melbourne would "deliver significant economic benefits" to the state in addition to interstate and international visitors.
"The decision to choose Melbourne to hold PAX Australia represents a fantastic opportunity to highlight Victoria's creative capabilities on a global scale," she said. "This is a great opportunity to showcase the gaming culture in Australia to the rest of the world, while promoting the talented game developers and creative studios to an international audience."
Khoo said the decision to bring PAX to Australia was made following the "overwhelming" response from the Australian Penny Arcade community.
"Melbourne has a long history of supporting the gaming scene, through showcasing cultural game exhibits to supporting world renowned game developers," Khoo said. "Holding PAX Australia in Melbourne is the perfect fit for our show."
According to organisers, PAX Australia will combine an international program with local content and community events, including international guests, speakers, musicians, developers, and Australian industry representatives.
Currently, PAX events are held on both coasts of the United States: PAX Prime in Seattle, Washington, and PAX East in Boston, Massachusetts.
PAX Australia ticket registration is now open via the PAX Australia website.
