The huge Steadfast Convention – due to attract about 2000 people to Perth from Sunday – was cancelled last week to remove any risk of a coronavirus outbreak.

The decision came well before Federal Government advice to keep any gathering below 500 people. The Steadfast event routinely exceeds 2000 delegates.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) annual forum and dinner followed suit shortly Steadfast.

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) had already cancelled its Annual Forum due to take place in Sydney on Wednesday, and its Annual Dinner scheduled for May.

Spokesman Campbell Fuller says he is pleased ICA was able to lead the way on risk management.

“The Insurance Council’s decision (in consultation with the ICA Board) to cancel two signature events was criticised by some as premature,” he writes in a LinkedIn post.

“However, ASIC, other industry groups and businesses have now also cancelled conferences and other events, and the Australian Government is banning large events.

“We are a risk-aware industry, and I am pleased the ICA has been able to show risk management and crisis management leadership.”

Steadfast CEO Robert Kelly says the decision to cancel his group’s massive annual event was “not taken lightly” but was necessary. Tickets will be reimbursed and sponsorships refunded, Steadfast says.

“Our staff, delegates, sponsors, and suppliers are our top priority and we strongly believe this is the right decision given the evolving public health risks, travel concerns and other current circumstances,” Mr Kelly said.