Melbourne has secured the International Diabetes Federation Western Pacific Region Congress 2026.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos today announced that more than 2,500 international experts and people with diabetes will gather at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 18–21 August 2026 to share knowledge and advance efforts to prevent and manage diabetes.
“We’re backing our business events sector by funding conferences that will bring large numbers of visitors to Melbourne and Victoria in coming years,” said Mr Dimopoulos.
“Our hotels, restaurants and attractions will all benefit as hundreds of delegates experience the best our city has to offer, with the event also showcasing Victoria’s leadership in diabetes education, care, advocacy and awareness on the global stage.”
The congress, supported through the Labor Government’s Business Events Fund, is expected to fill 7,500 room nights, support jobs in the business events sector and will further enhance Melbourne’s reputation as a hub of medical research excellence.
The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) worked closely with the Australian Diabetes Society, Diabetes Australia, and the Australian Diabetes Educators Association, and with support from Tourism Australia to secure the event, as part of a commitment by the lead agencies to improve diabetes prevention, management and care.
“Melbourne’s selection as the host city is a testament to our city’s reputation as a global hub for international association conferences and medical research, especially in the field of diabetes,” said MCB Chief Executive, Julia Swanson.
“With world-class facilities, leading experts, and a dynamic academic community, Melbourne fosters unparalleled collaboration and innovation to ensure the success of global meetings.”
The Western Pacific region, which spans 38 countries and territories, has 206 million adults living with diabetes, posing a significant challenge to the region’s health systems.
“This Congress could not come at a more urgent time for Australians living with diabetes. Hosting this Congress sends a clear message: diabetes is a national and global health emergency, and we are committed to working with the world’s best minds to deliver impact and innovation,” said Diabetes Australia Group Chief Executive, Justine Cain.
“This Congress is a chance to hear and learn from the world’s leading researchers, clinicians and health professionals, elevate the voices of people living with diabetes, and shape policies that will save lives and reduce the burden of diabetes on our health system.”
