Overview
- Organisers confirmed the Sydney iteration has reached its closing chapter and will not proceed in 2026 after running from 2023 to 2025.
- SXSW Sydney said it explored options with the NSW Government and global owner Penske Media Corporation before deciding to conclude the event.
- The 2025 edition drew more than 345,000 attendees, with organiser-reported cumulative economic impact across three years of about $275–$276 million.
- Across its run, the event counted more than 63,000 out-of-region attendees and reported a 35% year-on-year rise in international visitation in 2025.
- Launched in 2023 as SXSW’s first expansion outside North America, the event was backed by TEG, Destination NSW and the NSW Government under a multi-year deal reportedly worth over $12 million.