As many as 10,000 global delegates are expected to be in attendance for IROS 2028 in Sydney. Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/jovannig
Sydney has been selected to host the IEEE/Robotics Society of Japan (RSJ) International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS) in 2028, marking the first time the event will be held in the Southern Hemisphere in its 30-year history. The announcement highlights Australia's growing influence in the field of intelligent robotics research.
Minister for Jobs and Tourism, the Hon John Graham, expressed his excitement over the win: “This is a big win for Sydney and the NSW visitor economy. It’s also exciting to be hosting such an important global discussion in Sydney. This emerging field is reaching a critical inflection point and hosting a world-leading conference will put Australian experts at the forefront of that conversation.”
The successful bid was led by BESydney, in collaboration with leading robotics researchers from across Australia, who together secured the conference for Sydney. The event, to be held at the International Convention Centre Sydney from 2 to 6 October 2028, is expected to attract between 7,000 to 10,000 global delegates and generate an estimated A$31 million (US$19.4 million) in direct expenditure into the local economy.
IROS, established in 1988, is one of the largest and most influential conferences in the robotics research community. The event gathers global experts to discuss the latest advancements in intelligent robots and smart machines. The research presented at IROS plays a vital role in the development of emerging industries and technological innovations.
Lyn Lewis Smith, BESydney CEO, discussed the broader impact of the event, noting, “Events such as IROS allow us to build global connectivity for our robust local research ecosystem as well as showcasing Australian capability and collaboration and investment opportunities.”
Smith also pointed to the region’s broader innovation landscape, including the Sydney Quantum Academy and Tech Central’s innovation hubs, as key to attracting international conferences and investment, adding: “These advancements are driving NSW’s competitive edge and attracting international conferences and investment that spotlight its leadership in digital and intelligent technologies.”