Canberra Gets Back with the Australian Cyber Conference 2021

The National Convention Centre Canberra (NCCC) is gearing up for a return to large in-person business events as it welcomes the Australian Information Security Association (AISA)’s 2021 Australian Cyber Conference from 16-18 March.

Delivered by Canberra-based Conference Logistics (Conlog), the hybrid conference is expected to attract 800 in-person delegates, with an additional 400 attending virtually. 

The Australian Cyber Conference is significant as it marks not only one of Canberra's, but also Australia's, first major multi-day conferences in 12 months, and attests to a growing confidence from delegates to meet in person again. With a solid health response throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Canberra has been the least impacted major city in Australia and is an ideal location to host the 2021 Australian Cyber Conference.

“With zero community transmitted cases since mid-2020, and stringent COVID-safe guidelines in all venues and institutions, Canberra is one of the safest cities in Australia and is already seeing a return to in-person events,” says Michael Matthews, Chief Executive Officer at Canberra Convention Bureau. 

“Canberra has never been better connected to other domestic destinations, with daily flights available to 12 destinations across the country, making it easier than ever for delegates to access the capital for a conference. Our proximity to major population centres, particularly on the East Coast, makes us a desirable destination both for in-person and hybrid events,” says Matthews.

The NCCC has managed the planning and delivery of the event collaboratively with Conlog, navigating through changing restrictions and finding creative solutions for a successful hybrid event. 

“The size and scope of the event delivery network in Canberra allows for immediate and creative response times, allowing us to pre-empt any guideline updates or logistical changes in the lead up to the event. 

“NCCC has been leading the COVID-safe response with a focus on delegate safety and wellbeing, which has been paramount to a growing confidence among meeting planners and delegates to return to business in Canberra," states Stephen Wood, General Manager at NCCC.

Damien Manuel, Chair of the AISA Board of Directors, is confident that the Canberra conference will lead to successful outcomes for his industry.

"The success and confidence around the delivery of this event is testament to the city's natural collaborative effort, the importance of cyber security to the Australian government, and the collective focus on delegate and exhibitor safety," says Manuel.

Registrations for the 2021 Australian Cyber Conference are open: cyberconference.com.au/canberra