Melbourne Wins Global RoboCup 2028 as Australia Becomes the Future Home of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence

RoboCup and RoboCup Symposium

Melbourne has once again demonstrated why it is one of the world's leading destinations for international business events after securing the prestigious RoboCup and RoboCup Symposium for 2028. The globally recognised event will bring together thousands of robotics experts, researchers, students and technology innovators from around the world, further cementing Melbourne's reputation as Australia's innovation capital.

To be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), RoboCup 2028 is expected to attract up to 3,000 delegates, more than 15,000 spectators and generate an estimated economic impact exceeding $14 million for Victoria's visitor economy.

The successful bid represents another major achievement for Melbourne's thriving business events sector and further strengthens the city's growing international profile in robotics, artificial intelligence and advanced technology.

Melbourne Becomes the Global Stage for Robotics Innovation

RoboCup is recognised as the world's largest and most prestigious robotics and artificial intelligence competition.

Founded to accelerate the development of intelligent robotics through real-world challenges, RoboCup provides an international platform where universities, research organisations, technology companies and students showcase groundbreaking innovations that could shape the future of society.

Visitors attending RoboCup 2028 will witness autonomous robots competing in soccer tournaments, advanced disaster response simulations, industrial manufacturing challenges and logistics competitions. The event also features RoboCupJunior, where school-aged students demonstrate their own robotic creations while inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers and innovators.

The combination of cutting-edge technology and interactive public demonstrations makes RoboCup one of the world's most exciting science and technology events.

A Winning Partnership Delivers the Event

The successful bid was led by the Melbourne Convention Bureau in partnership with the RoboCup Federation, RMIT University and RoboCup Junior Australia.

Strong support from the Victorian Government, Tourism Australia's Business Events Bid Fund and professional conference organiser ICMS Australasia helped secure the highly competitive international event.

Their collaborative efforts demonstrated Melbourne's exceptional capability to host major global conferences while showcasing Victoria's strengths in innovation, education and advanced technology.

Victoria Leads Australia's Artificial Intelligence Revolution

RoboCup and RoboCup Symposium

Victoria has become one of the Asia-Pacific region's fastest-growing centres for robotics, automation and artificial intelligence.

Home to internationally recognised universities, leading research institutions, innovative technology companies and advanced manufacturing industries, Melbourne provides an ideal environment for collaboration between academia and industry.

Its strengths in automation, digital technologies, engineering and applied artificial intelligence continue to attract international investment while producing world-class research and technological breakthroughs.

Hosting RoboCup will further strengthen Victoria's position as a global leader in future technologies and innovation.

A Major Boost for Business Events and Tourism

Beyond the technological achievements, RoboCup 2028 will deliver significant economic and tourism benefits for Melbourne and Victoria.

Thousands of international delegates will spend several days exploring the city while attending the conference and competition, supporting hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport providers and local businesses.

Many visitors are also expected to extend their stay before or after the event to experience Melbourne's celebrated dining scene, cultural attractions, sporting precincts, nearby wine regions and the spectacular Great Ocean Road.

Business events such as RoboCup continue to demonstrate how international conferences contribute not only to knowledge sharing but also to long-term tourism growth.

Melbourne's Growing International Events Calendar

RoboCup joins an impressive calendar of international conferences already secured for Melbourne.

The city will also host the inaugural Australian AI Summit in September 2026, attracting more than 800 delegates, alongside the IEEE Conference on Virtual Reality and 3D User Interfaces and the International Conference on Neural Information Processing.

These events reinforce Melbourne's position as one of the Southern Hemisphere's leading destinations for knowledge exchange, scientific collaboration and international business events.

Industry Leaders Welcome the Announcement

RoboCup and RoboCup Symposium

Victorian Minister for Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said Victoria is the ideal destination to host RoboCup, highlighting the state's globally recognised strengths in technology, advanced manufacturing and digital innovation.

Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive Julia Swanson said securing RoboCup 2028 reinforces Melbourne's reputation as a city where innovation thrives. She noted that bringing together the world's leading robotics experts will strengthen international collaboration while inspiring future generations of scientists and engineers.

RoboCup Federation President Ubbo Visser welcomed the opportunity to return to Melbourne, recalling that the city was one of RoboCup's inaugural host destinations more than twenty-five years ago. He praised the quality of Melbourne's successful bid and said the global RoboCup community looks forward to returning to Australia.

Tourism Australia Executive General Manager Industry and Business Events Sally Cope said RoboCup 2028 would deliver substantial economic benefits while reinforcing Australia's standing as a premier destination for world-leading technology conferences and business events.

A Bright Future for Innovation and Travel

The successful bid for RoboCup 2028 highlights Melbourne's continuing ability to attract internationally significant events that combine tourism, education, research and economic development.

As artificial intelligence and robotics increasingly shape industries around the world, Melbourne will become the global meeting place where researchers, students, businesses and innovators come together to exchange ideas, develop new technologies and inspire future generations.

For travellers with an interest in technology, innovation and the future of science, RoboCup 2028 promises to be one of Australia's most exciting international events.

Melbourne Convention Bureau

Website: https://www.melbournecb.com.au/

RoboCup Federation Website: https://www.robocup.org
RoboCup Junior (Australia) Inc. https://www.robocupjunior.org.au/robocup-major/
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Website: https://www.mcec.com.au
Tourism Australia – Business Events Australia Website: https://businessevents.australia.com/en

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Australia Strengthens Its Global Business Events Leadership with Landmark IAPCO Destination Partnership

Melbourne

Australia has taken another significant step towards cementing its reputation as one of the world's leading destinations for international conferences and business events. Business Events Australia has officially been announced as the newest Destination Partner of the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO), creating an exciting new chapter in a strategic collaboration focused on education, sustainability and the future of global meetings.

The expanded partnership highlights Australia's growing influence in the international business events sector while reinforcing the country's commitment to responsible tourism, innovation and world-class event delivery.

For international conference organisers, association leaders and corporate event planners, this collaboration positions Australia as an increasingly attractive destination for high-value meetings, conventions and incentive travel.

A New Era for Australia's Business Events Industry

The new two-year Destination Partnership strengthens the long-standing relationship between Business Events Australia and IAPCO, creating valuable opportunities for knowledge sharing, destination promotion and professional development.

Through the collaboration, Business Events Australia will engage directly with IAPCO's international network of accredited Professional Congress Organisers (PCOs), showcasing Australia's outstanding conference facilities, innovative venues and diverse destinations.

The partnership will feature targeted educational programs, destination insights and industry content designed to help international event planners discover the many advantages of hosting meetings and conferences across Australia.

Why Australia Continues to Attract International Conferences

IMEX Frankfurt 2026

Australia has become one of the world's most desirable destinations for business events thanks to its modern infrastructure, exceptional hospitality, renowned universities and strong research capabilities.

Major cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth offer award-winning convention centres, premium accommodation and excellent transport networks, while regional destinations provide unique settings for incentive travel and executive retreats.

International delegates can combine productive business programs with unforgettable leisure experiences, creating a compelling reason to choose Australia for global conferences and association meetings.

Sustainability at the Heart of Modern Events

One of the most important aspects of the expanded partnership is its continued focus on sustainability.

Business Events Australia will continue supporting the IAPCO Sustainability Programme, extending a collaboration that began in 2025 and now enters its next phase.

The initiative encourages event organisers to adopt practical environmental and social responsibility measures while delivering conferences that leave positive long-term legacies for host communities.

Among the program's key achievements are the launch of the IAPCO Sustainability Strategy, the inaugural IAPCO Sustainability Award and the development of the IAPCO Sustainability Toolkit, providing practical guidance for Professional Congress Organisers seeking to deliver more sustainable events.

Education and Knowledge Sharing Drive Industry Excellence

Brisbane

Beyond destination promotion, the partnership places strong emphasis on education and professional development.

Business Events Australia will contribute destination expertise through educational content, training opportunities and knowledge exchange initiatives that support conference organisers worldwide.

By connecting Australian industry leaders with international event professionals, the partnership encourages collaboration, innovation and the sharing of best practice across the global meetings industry.

These initiatives help strengthen professional standards while promoting continuous improvement throughout the sector.

Australia Showcases World-Class Conference Experiences

As an official Destination Partner, Business Events Australia will have the opportunity to demonstrate the country's remarkable range of conference destinations and event experiences.

From internationally recognised convention centres and luxury hotels to spectacular natural landscapes and Indigenous cultural experiences, Australia offers delegates a unique combination of business excellence and memorable travel opportunities.

Conference attendees can extend their visit to explore iconic attractions, regional food and wine destinations, World Heritage sites and extraordinary wildlife experiences, making Australia an appealing destination for both business and leisure travel.

Global Industry Leaders Welcome the Expanded Partnership

Sally Cope

IAPCO President Sissi Lignou described the Destination Partnership as a natural progression of the strong relationship between the two organisations.

She emphasised that the collaboration brings together destination expertise, sustainability leadership and educational excellence while creating long-term value for IAPCO's international membership.

Tourism Australia's Executive General Manager of Industry and Business Events, Sally Cope, welcomed the expanded partnership, noting that it provides an important platform to showcase Australia's exceptional business events capabilities to international decision-makers while reinforcing the country's leadership in sustainable event delivery.

Business Events Continue to Drive Tourism Growth

Business events remain one of the most valuable sectors of the global tourism industry.

International conferences generate significant economic benefits by attracting high-value visitors who often extend their stays to experience local destinations, restaurants, attractions and cultural experiences.

The partnership between Business Events Australia and IAPCO strengthens Australia's ability to compete for major international events while supporting local communities, tourism operators and hospitality businesses across the country.

As the global meetings industry continues to evolve, Australia's focus on innovation, sustainability and exceptional delegate experiences positions the nation for continued success.

Australia's Future as a Global Meetings Destination

The new Destination Partnership demonstrates Australia's long-term commitment to excellence in business events and responsible tourism.

By combining world-class conference infrastructure with sustainability leadership, educational collaboration and destination expertise, Australia continues to strengthen its reputation as a preferred destination for international meetings and congresses.

For organisations seeking inspiring locations that deliver outstanding business outcomes alongside unforgettable travel experiences, Australia offers a compelling combination of professionalism, innovation and natural beauty.

Business Events Australia

Website: https://www.businesseventsaustralia.com
Tourism Australia Website: https://www.australia.com
International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) Website: https://www.iapco.org
Business Events Australia Industry Information https://www.businesseventsaustralia.com/en

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Unlock New Business Opportunities at AIME 2027 as a Hosted Buyer

Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME)

For professionals involved in meetings, incentives, conferences and events, few opportunities offer the scale, influence and networking power of the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME). Returning to Melbourne from 15–17 February 2027, AIME 2027 is set to once again bring together the region's most influential buyers, suppliers and industry leaders.

For qualified event planners and decision-makers, the AIME 2027 Hosted Buyer Program offers an

exceptional opportunity to discover new destinations, venues, hotels, technologies and event experiences while building valuable business relationships that can shape future events and conferences.

Held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, AIME remains the leading business events trade show in the Asia Pacific region and a must-attend event for anyone sourcing products and services for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions.

Why Become an AIME 2027 Hosted Buyer?

The Hosted Buyer Program is specifically designed to maximise the value of every attendee's time. Rather than searching through a crowded exhibition floor hoping to find the right suppliers, hosted buyers receive access to a carefully structured program of high-quality business appointments.

AIME's sophisticated meetings platform matches buyers with exhibitors based on their business needs and interests, ensuring every conversation has genuine commercial potential.

Hosted buyers gain access to a powerful network of industry professionals while exploring the latest trends, innovations and opportunities shaping the future of business events.

A Welcome Event Designed for Meaningful Connections

AIME

The AIME Welcome Event on Monday 15 February 2027 serves as the official opening celebration and one of the most anticipated networking opportunities of the week.

Held in the heart of Melbourne, this prestigious gathering attracts more than 2,400 hosted buyers, exhibitors, media representatives and VIP guests. The evening combines premium hospitality, entertainment and strategic networking opportunities in an atmosphere designed to encourage genuine conversations and valuable business introductions.

For many attendees, the Welcome Event provides the first opportunity to establish new partnerships before the trade show officially begins.

The AIME Trade Show Experience

The AIME Trade Show takes place across two action-packed days:

• Tuesday 16 February 2027 | 8:30am – 6:00pm
• Wednesday 17 February 2027 | 8:30am – 5:00pm

This is where the real business happens. Hosted buyers participate in pre-scheduled appointments with exhibitors from across Australia, New Zealand, Asia, the Pacific and international markets.

These carefully matched meetings provide direct access to decision-makers and suppliers who are ready to discuss new opportunities, future events and long-term partnerships.

The efficiency of the program allows buyers to maximise productivity while gaining exposure to a wide range of products and services in a short period of time.

Exclusive Benefits for Hosted Buyers

AIME

One of the key advantages of participating in the Hosted Buyer Program is access to dedicated facilities and support throughout the event.

The Hosted Buyer Lounge provides a comfortable environment where attendees can relax between appointments, enjoy refreshments and connect with fellow industry professionals.

Hosted buyers also benefit from access to advanced meeting technology that facilitates connections before, during and after the event. In addition to pre-scheduled appointments, attendees have the flexibility to arrange additional freeflow meetings with exhibitors they discover during the trade show.

This combination of structured and spontaneous networking creates countless opportunities for collaboration and business growth.

Explore Hundreds of Industry Suppliers

AIME 2027 will showcase an extensive range of exhibitors representing every aspect of the business events industry.

Hosted buyers will have opportunities to meet with:

• Leading international and regional destinations
• Convention bureaux and tourism organisations
• Destination Management Companies
• Convention and exhibition centres
• Hotels and resorts
• Boutique venues
• Airlines
• Travel and tour operators
• Cruise companies
• Event technology providers
• Production and audiovisual specialists
• Attractions and experiences
• Catering companies
• Event support service providers

This diverse exhibitor mix ensures buyers can source everything required to create successful meetings, conferences, incentive programs and corporate events.

Learn from Global Industry Leaders

AIME

Beyond the meetings and networking opportunities, AIME 2027 will feature presentations, discussions and insights from some of the world's most respected business events professionals.

Attendees can gain valuable knowledge on emerging trends, innovation, sustainability, event technology and future opportunities within the rapidly evolving global meetings industry.

These educational sessions provide practical ideas that can be applied immediately to improve event planning strategies and business performance.

Melbourne: Australia's Premier Events City

As the host city for AIME 2027, Melbourne offers an outstanding destination for business and leisure travellers alike.

Renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, world-class dining, luxury accommodation and excellent transport infrastructure, Melbourne consistently ranks among the world's leading destinations for international conferences and events.

The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre provides a state-of-the-art venue perfectly suited to hosting one of the region's largest and most influential business events gatherings.

Secure Your Place at AIME 2027

For event professionals seeking new ideas, stronger supplier relationships and access to the latest industry developments, the AIME 2027 Hosted Buyer Program delivers exceptional value.

From strategic networking and pre-scheduled business meetings to educational sessions and industry celebrations, AIME offers a comprehensive platform for discovering opportunities and building meaningful connections.

As the Asia Pacific business events sector continues to grow, AIME 2027 stands out as an essential event for professionals committed to delivering successful meetings, conferences and incentive programs.

AIME 

Official Website: https://aime.com.au
Hosted Buyer Information: https://aime.com.au/hosted-buyers
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre: https://mcec.com.au

Business Events Australia: https://www.businesseventsaustralia.com

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IAPCO and Business Events Australia (BEA) Partner to Advance Sustainability in the Global Meetings Industry

The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) has announced a new strategic partnership with Business Events Australia (BEA), launching joint initiatives to strengthen and accelerate sustainable practices across the global meetings and events industry at IBTM World this week.

The partnership supports the implementation of IAPCO’s Sustainability Strategy and introduces two cornerstone initiatives: a new Sustainability Award powered by Business Events Australia, and the development of a new IAPCO Sustainability Toolkit designed to equip professional congress organisers (PCOs) with practical tools and insights to drive measurable environmental and social impact.

Sissi Lignou, President of IAPCO and CEO of AFEA Congress, said sustainability is no longer optional.

“It’s a defining principle for the future of our industry. Through this partnership, IAPCO and Business Events Australia are empowering our members to lead by example, demonstrating how creativity, collaboration, and responsibility can coexist to deliver exceptional and impactful events worldwide.”

Robin Mack, Acting Managing Director at Tourism Australia, said: "Sustainability is increasingly important for the business events industry and one of Tourism Australia’s key strategic pillars, driving how we market, operate, and partner across the industry.

Robin Mack

“Our new partnership with IAPCO will strengthen and help to accelerate sustainable practices. We look forward to announcing the first Sustainability Award winner and launching the Toolkit at IAPCO’s Annual Meeting & General Assembly in February next year."

The IAPCO Sustainability Award powered by Business Events Australia will honour outstanding achievements by IAPCO member companies demonstrating leadership and innovation in sustainable event management.

As part of the collaboration, Business Events Australia will also support the IAPCO Sustainability Toolkit, a new digital resource providing actionable strategies, checklists, and tools that PCOs can implement into their operations. Scheduled for release in March 2026, the toolkit will reflect the latest global best practices and standards in sustainable event delivery.

Ajay Bhojwani, IAPCO Sustainability Committee Chair and Regional Managing Director, Middle East & Africa at MCI Group, said the partnership represents a united commitment to driving change.

“This partnership represents a shared commitment to meaningful action. Together, we aim to showcase innovation, create practical tools that enable every organiser to make a real difference, as well as recognise the best-in-class implementation of sustainability actions and tools.

“Recent IAPCO member research found that 71% of members have a clear sustainability vision and strategy, and 58% have a designated sustainability role within their organisations responsible for implementing sustainability practices in their clients’ event.

“However, respondents identified the increased cost of implementation and a lack of sustainability subvention and subsidy programmes as key challenges in advancing sustainability across the events industry. Which is why this partnership is so important,” said Bhojwani.

The partnership will also include a comprehensive programme of branding, education, and engagement opportunities.

Through this collaboration, IAPCO reaffirms its endorsement as a signatory of the Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE) initiative. Both organisations share their commitment to advancing sustainability, celebrating excellence, and ensuring the meetings industry continues to play a leading role in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

For more information, visit https://www.iapco.org/