Brisbane to Host IFFS World Congress 2027

Brisbane has been selected to host the International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS) World Congress 2027, bringing one of the world's leading gatherings dedicated to reproductive medicine to Australia from 18–21 April 2027. The congress will take place at the Legends Global managed Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) and is expected to welcome almost 3,000 delegates, including clinicians, researchers and policymakers from across the globe.

Held under the theme Global Access and Advances in Fertility Care, the congress will examine the latest developments in reproductive medicine while addressing one of the most pressing healthcare challenges facing societies worldwide. As fertility rates continue to decline in many countries, discussions will span scientific innovation, emerging technologies and equitable access to fertility care.

The programme will explore advances ranging from artificial intelligence in embryo selection to emerging 3D modelling technologies designed to better understand and recreate the biological environments necessary for conception. Alongside these scientific developments, delegates will discuss how fertility care can become more accessible, inclusive and responsive to the changing realities of modern families.

Australia's fertility sector, recognised internationally for its clinical outcomes and inclusive model of care, is expected to provide a strong reference point for discussions, particularly across the Asia-Pacific region. The congress also aligns with the IFFS More Joy campaign, highlighting the social impact of expanding access to fertility treatment.

The successful bid was led by the Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) in partnership with the International Federation of Fertility Societies, with support from Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) and Tourism Australia.

Dr Petra Wale, President of the Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand, said the congress represents an opportunity to advance fertility care through international collaboration.

"Australia has a long history of leadership in fertility care and of openly sharing knowledge with the world. What we've been able to achieve here in terms of strong clinical outcomes, government support and a culture of inclusion, shows what is possible when access to care is prioritised. By bringing the global community together in Brisbane, we have an opportunity to learn from each other, break down barriers and ultimately bring more joy to more people hoping to build a family."

The event is also expected to generate significant economic benefits for Queensland. According to Tourism and Events Queensland, the congress is forecast to contribute approximately AUD 10.8 million to the state's economy while reinforcing Brisbane's position as a destination for major international scientific and medical meetings.
 

Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Craig Davidson said: "Bringing the International Federation of Fertility Societies World Congress to Brisbane is a significant win for Queensland, and a strong vote of confidence in our ability to host the world's leading scientific and medical gatherings.

The event is expected to bring close to 3,000 delegates, the majority from overseas and deliver around $10.8 million in economic impact, supporting local jobs, businesses and the visitor economy."

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner highlighted the city's expanding life sciences sector.

"Health is one of Brisbane's fastest growing industries and is forecast to grow by 36 per cent by 2031. Behind every breakthrough in fertility care is a person or family hoping to build their future, and Brisbane is proud to play a role in supporting that journey. By welcoming the world's leading experts to Brisbane, we can help drive new ideas, strengthen global collaboration and improve access to fertility care, while showcasing our city as Australia's lifestyle capital."

Tourism Australia also pointed to the congress as further evidence of Australia's attractiveness for international association meetings.

Sally Cope, Executive General Manager, Industry & Business Events at Tourism Australia, said: "Brisbane's latest business event win highlights the global draw of Australia's world-class health sector internationally. Tourism Australia is proud to have backed this successful bid. To date, our Bid Fund Program has secured more than $1.5 billion in economic value, playing a vital role in locking in a consistent event pipeline through to 2032."

For BCEC, the congress also demonstrates the broader value that international association meetings can generate beyond their immediate economic impact.

General Manager Kym Guesdon said: "We are proud to host a global event that not only advances world-leading research and innovation, but speaks to the experiences of everyday people.

The Congress will provide an important platform for the exchange of knowledge and innovation, connecting leading experts from around the world to help shape the future of fertility care. It is a powerful example of how business events can contribute to meaningful global progress while delivering lasting benefits locally."
 

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