SXSW Sydney will not return in 2026, organisers announced Wednesday, ending the festival’s three-year run in the Asia-Pacific region.
The decision follows consultations between the NSW Government, SXSW Sydney leadership, and global owners Penske Media Corporation.
Officials cited a “changing global environment” and “prevailing market conditions” as the primary reasons for the cancellation, noting the broader difficulties currently facing major festivals worldwide.
Despite the shutdown, the event reported significant growth during its tenure. Between 2023 and 2025, SXSW Sydney generated approximately A$276 million (US$184.4 million) in economic impact. The 2025 edition saw a total attendance of 345,000 – a 15 per cent year-on-year increase – and a 35 per cent surge in international visitation. In total, the festival drew more than 63,000 out-of-region attendees over three years.
“SXSW Sydney was an unforgettable three-year journey,” said co-managing directors Simon Cahill and Jono Whyman, thanking the speakers, sponsors, and volunteers who built the platform. Jenny Connelly, director in charge of SXSW, added that while the event will not proceed, it successfully “elevated voices from Australia and the Asia-Pacific region onto the world stage”.
The organisation stated it is now focused on providing support to its staff during the wind-down process.
