Sydney HarbourAustralia’s growing reputation as a leader in robotics research has received a major boost with Sydney securing the IEEE/Robotics Society of Japan (RSJ) International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS) for 2028.
It marks the first time the event will be held in the Southern Hemisphere in its 30-year history, with 10,000 international delegates expected to attend.
Taking place at ICC Sydney from 2-6 October 2028, IROS will spotlight Australia’s excellence in intelligent robotics, from infrastructure maintenance and space robotics to sustainable mining applications.
BESydney, in partnership with leading researchers from the University of Technology Sydney, University of Sydney, and other institutions, led the successful bid.
BESydney CEO Lyn Lewis-Smith emphasised that winning IROS strengthens Sydney’s position at the heart of a thriving technology and innovation ecosystem.
“Initiatives like the Sydney Quantum Academy and Tech Central’s innovation hubs underpin Sydney’s vibrant ecosystem, creating opportunities for collaboration across fields such as AI, quantum computing, and robotics. These advancements are driving NSW’s competitive edge and attracting international conferences and investment that spotlight its leadership in digital and intelligent technologies,” she said.
Supported by Tourism Australia’s Business Events Bid Fund, hosting IROS 2028 reinforces Australia’s ambition to become a global hub for AI-driven industries, tapping into the projected $20 billion global AI robotics market.