Cairns to Host World Ecoacoustics Congress 2026 at Cairns Convention Centre

Cairns will host the 6th edition of the World Ecoacoustics Congress in partnership with James Cook University, bringing international delegates to the Cairns Convention Centre from 17 to 20 August 2026.

Organised biennially by the International Society of Ecoacoustics, the congress gathers researchers, scientists, engineers and environmental practitioners to examine developments in ecoacoustics and environmental monitoring. Following previous editions in Brisbane in 2018 and Madrid in 2024, the 2026 congress marks only the second time the event will take place in Australia.

Ecoacoustics is an interdisciplinary field focused on the study of natural and human-generated sound and its relationship with ecosystems, biodiversity and environmental change. Cairns was selected in part because of its geographical position between the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics of Queensland, two globally significant ecosystems recognised for their biodiversity and environmental importance.

Professor Paul Roe, Dean of Research at James Cook University, said the destination offered an exceptional context for the congress. “Cairns is a natural fit for the World Ecoacoustics Congress because it gives delegates access to one of the most acoustically and ecologically diverse regions in the world. From rainforest soundscapes to reef environments, this is a place where ecoacoustics can help us better understand ecosystem health, biodiversity and the impacts of environmental change.”

“At James Cook University, we are also seeing the field evolve in exciting and meaningful ways. Projects such as Listening to Country are helping build ecoacoustic capacity with First Nations groups across Queensland and supporting research and land and sea management through genuine collaboration.”
 

“While delegate numbers are expected to be slightly lower than initially hoped due to broader global challenges, the congress is set to deliver a high-quality scientific programme and meaningful international collaboration, with a clear focus on advancing the frontiers of ecoacoustics.”

Professor Roe is recognised internationally for his work on projects including the Australian Acoustic Observatory, a national environmental monitoring initiative using continuous acoustic sensors across the country, and Open Ecoacoustics, which develops open-source tools and platforms supporting conservation-led acoustic research.

Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef General Manager – Partnerships & Events Tara Bennett said the congress strongly aligned with the region’s positioning around science, sustainability and nature-led experiences.

“The World Ecoacoustics Congress is exactly the kind of international meeting that aligns with Cairns’ strengths in science, sustainability and nature-based experiences. In partnership with James Cook University, this win reinforces Cairns’ reputation as a destination where global delegates can come together to exchange knowledge while being immersed in an environment that directly reflects the themes of the conference."

Janet Hamilton, General Manager of the Cairns Convention Centre, added: “With delegates expected from around the world, we are looking forward to hosting them in our Centre. The congress will deliver valuable economic and academic impact, while also creating strong potential for visitors to extend their stay and experience the venue, reef, rainforest and wider Tropical North Queensland region.”

The congress website is already promoting the wider tourism offer of Tropical North Queensland, encouraging delegates to extend their stay and explore the surrounding reef, rainforest and regional experiences during the August 2026 event.
 

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