Australia’s reputation as a global leader in intelligent robotics research has received a boost with the announcement today that Sydney will host the IEEE/Robotics Society of Japan (RSJ) International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS) in 2028.
This landmark decision marks the first time in the conference’s 30-year history that it will be held in the Southern Hemisphere.
The conference is anticipated to attract between 7,000 and 10,000 international delegates, injecting an estimated A$31 million directly into the local economy. IROS Sydney will take place at the state-of-the-art International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney) from October 2-6, 2028.
Established in 1988 and held annually, IROS serves as a crucial platform for the international robotics research community to converge and explore the cutting edge of science and technology in intelligent robots and smart machines. The groundbreaking research showcased at these conferences is pivotal in fostering the growth of new industries and laying the groundwork for future innovation.
BESydney’s CEO Lyn Lewis Smith highlighted: “Events such as IROS allow us to build vital global connectivity for our robust local research ecosystem, while simultaneously showcasing Australia’s exceptional capabilities, collaborative spirit, and investment opportunities,” she stated.
Smith further emphasised the strength of New South Wales’ research infrastructure, pointing to advanced facilities such as the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) ARC Research Hub for Human-Robot Teaming for Sustainable and Resilient Construction and Robotics Institute, as well as the University of Sydney’s Australian Centre for Field Robotics and the ARC Australian Robotic Inspection and Asset Management Hub. These institutions have been at the forefront of innovation in critical areas including space robotics, infrastructure maintenance, and sustainable mining applications.
“Initiatives like the Sydney Quantum Academy and Tech Central’s innovation hubs further underpin Sydney’s vibrant ecosystem,” Ms. Lewis Smith added, “creating fertile ground for collaboration across disciplines such as AI, quantum computing, and robotics. These advancements are significantly bolstering NSW’s competitive edge and attracting international conferences and investment that shine a spotlight on its leadership in digital and intelligent technologies.”
IROS is sponsored by the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society, the Robotics Society of Japan, the Society of Instrument and Control Engineers, the New Technology Foundation, and the IEEE Industrial Electronics Society.
The successful bid to bring IROS to Sydney was a collaborative effort spearheaded by BESydney, working in close partnership with leading robotics researchers from across Australia.
