SXSW Sydney axed

SXSW Sydney has confirmed it will not return in 2026, with organisers saying the event will formally conclude its run.

In a statement issued by TEG, the decision was attributed to a shifting global environment affecting major events, festivals, and cultural programs worldwide.

“SXSW Sydney worked closely with the NSW Government and SXSW’s global owners, Penske Media Corporation, to explore potential pathways forward for the event; however, prevailing market conditions mean the Sydney edition will not be going ahead at this time,” the statement reads.

“Between 2023 and 2025, SXSW Sydney generated an estimated $276 million in total economic impact. The event attracted more than 63,000 out-of-region attendees and recorded a 35% year-on-year growth in international visitation between 2024 and 2025. In 2025 alone, the event attracted a total attendance of more than 345,000, representing a 15% year-on-year increase.”

Mediaweek has contacted TEG regarding the future of SXSW Sydney beyond 2026.

SXSW Sydney co-managing directors, Simon Cahill and Jono Whyman, added: “SXSW Sydney would not have been possible without our partners, Destination NSW and SXSW, as well as those who contributed to the event – our speakers, sponsors, volunteers and attendees. SXSW Sydney was an unforgettable three-year journey, and we owe a debt of gratitude to the people who joined us.

“We are especially grateful to the SXSW Sydney team for their dedication and hard work in bringing this event to life and establishing a platform that showcased Australia and the Asia-Pacific as pioneers in global culture.”

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