SXSW Sydney has canceled its 2026 edition and announced it will “end” the event in the Australian city.
In a statement shared by TEG, it said the decision “reflects the changes in the global environment that are impacting major events, festivals and cultural programs around the world.”
“SXSW Sydney has worked closely with the New South Wales Government and SXSW’s global owner, Penske Media Corporation, to explore possible paths forward for the event, but current market conditions mean that the Sydney edition will not take place at this time,” the statement added.
“From 2023 to 2025, SXSW Sydney generated an estimated total economic impact of $276 million. From 2025 to 2025, the number of international visitors has increased by 35% compared to the previous year.In 2025 alone, the event attracted a total of more than 345,000 participants, an increase of 15% compared to the previous year.
SXSW Sydney co-managing directors Simon Cahill and Jono Whyman said in a joint statement: “SXSW Sydney would not be possible without our partners Destination NSW and SXSW, and those who contributed to the event – speakers, sponsors, volunteers and attendees. SXSW Sydney has been an unforgettable three-year journey and we owe a debt of gratitude to everyone who has taken part in it.”
Cahill and Whyman added: “We are especially grateful to the SXSW Sydney team for their dedication and hard work in making this event possible and establishing a platform that showcases Australia and Asia Pacific as pioneers of global culture.”
SXSW Sydney ran for three years and attracted many notable talents, including Chance the Rapper, Nicole Kidman, Teddy Swims, The Kid LaRoy, and Paul Feig.
