Media Release

Friday, 31 October 2003 - AO46/2003

Melbourne Company Cleans Up $80m Athens Olympic Deal

Melbourne-based Cleanevent Group has won the cleaning and waste management contract for the 2004 Athens Olympic Games worth an estimated $80 million, Trade Minister Mark Vaile announced today.

The Cleanevent Group will provide cleaning services to the more than 120 competition, training and special venues for both the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Athens next year.

Mr Vaile welcomed the awarding of this major contract saying it reinforced Australia’s strong international reputation for providing clean, green waste management services.

“Having been involved in the Sydney, Atlanta and Salt Lake City Olympics, Cleanevent is ideally qualified for this high-profile job and their work will enhance Australia’s strong involvement in the Games,” Mr Vaile said.

“Australian companies are providing merchandise, accommodation, sporting equipment, engineering and training services for Athens 2004 - contracts worth more than $120 million. Adding Cleanevent’s Olympic contract, projects associated with the Athens games will more than quadruple Australia’s current exports to Greece from $48.5 million to over $200 million.

“The deal will also boost employment opportunities, creating more than 100 cleaning, supervisory and project management jobs across Australia.”

Cleanevent’s Chairman, Craig Lovett, said Austrade’s assistance was a key part of the company’s success in Athens.

“This deal has been many years in the making and Austrade’s support and local contacts has been an immense help,” Mr Lovett said.

Mr Vaile congratulated the Cleanevent Group for its international success.

“The company should be applauded for showcasing to the world the high-calibre goods and services that Australia has on offer. Their win will benefit the Australian economy and other local companies looking to enter the international market,” Mr Vaile said.

Contact:  Matthew Doman 02 6277 7420, Jemima Lohse (Austrade) 02 9390 2703