Sydney has been announced as the host city for the 40th anniversary of the Australian International Education Conference (AIEC) in 2026, marking a milestone moment for Australia’s international education community.
The announcement was made at this year’s conference in Canberra, confirming that thousands of education professionals, policy makers and industry leaders from around the world will converge in New South Wales next October for the nation’s premier international education forum.
The AIEC has long been a cornerstone event for the sector, providing a platform to shape strategy, share research, and strengthen collaboration across education, government and industry. Over four decades, it has evolved into a global meeting point for ideas — reflecting the growth, impact and resilience of international education in Australia.
The 2026 event is being delivered in partnership between IDP Education, the International Education Association of Australia (IEAA), Investment NSW, and Business Events Sydney (BESydney), with support from Study NSW.
Announcing Sydney as the host city, Toshi Kawaguchi, Director of Study NSW, said the 40th anniversary conference would highlight both the strength of the sector and the vibrancy of the city.
“Sydney is ready to welcome you. AIEC 2026 will be a milestone event — an opportunity to explore major trends in international education, connect with colleagues from across Australia and around the world, and celebrate the strength and impact of this vital sector,” he said. “We look forward to showcasing Sydney and NSW as Australia’s premier study and research destination — with our culture of innovation, our global outlook, and of course, the beauty and vibrancy of our harbour city.”
The event is expected to attract nearly 2,000 delegates and generate more than $6.1 million in direct economic impact for the NSW economy. But organisers say its legacy will extend far beyond the conference centre.
Amanda Lampe, CEO of Business Events Sydney, said hosting the AIEC underscores Sydney’s global position as a leader in education and collaboration.
“Bringing nearly 2,000 university educators and innovators from around the world, we estimate AIEC 2026 will generate $6.1 million in direct expenditure to the local economy,” she said. “This event will foster vital discussions on the future of international education and offer delegates immersive experiences at our leading institutes and research facilities. Conferences like AIEC 2026 create lasting opportunities for global collaboration and impact well beyond the conference itself.”
Rebecca McPhee, Deputy Secretary of Investment NSW, said the event aligns with the state’s strategic vision for trade, innovation and investment.
“Sydney is a leading global study, research and business hub – and for good reason,” she said. “We have a strong culture of innovation, a history of developing meaningful partnerships and deep international ties. We look forward to welcoming delegates to Sydney in 2026 for the 40th anniversary of the AIEC, where we can work together to share knowledge, gain expert insights and celebrate the strength and impact of this vital sector.”
International education remains one of NSW’s largest and most dynamic industries. In 2024, more than 328,000 international students called the state home, contributing $19.5 billion to the economy — making it NSW’s second-largest export.
The conference aligns with the NSW Trade and Investment Strategy, the Visitor Economy Strategy, and the 24-Hour Economy Strategy, reflecting the integral role international education plays in shaping the state’s cultural and economic future.
Tennealle O’Shannessy, CEO of IDP Education, said the 2026 event would not only look back on 40 years of progress, but also look ahead to the future of global education.
“For 40 years, the AIEC has been where international education connects, collaborates and looks ahead,” Ms O’Shannessy said. “We are proud to co-host this milestone anniversary in Sydney – a city with world-class universities, vibrant culture and global connections – and to look ahead together at how we can keep strengthening opportunities for students, institutions and communities.”
Catania Aviles, Events Manager for AIEC at IDP Education, echoed this sentiment, highlighting Sydney’s role as a fitting host for such an occasion.
“IDP and IEAA are thrilled to be bringing AIEC 2026 to Sydney for the conference’s 40th anniversary. It’s a milestone moment to celebrate the growth and impact of international education, and Sydney — a city that reflects innovation, diversity, and global connection — is the perfect backdrop for this celebration of collaboration and progress as we inspire the ideas that will shape the next era of international education.”
As AIEC approaches its 40th year, the Sydney conference promises not just a celebration of the sector’s achievements, but a platform for reimagining its future — one defined by innovation, inclusion, and global collaboration.
The AIEC announcement video:
