Brisbane, Australia has been announced as the host city for the International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS) World Congress 2027, a landmark global event bringing together the world’s leading fertility experts to explore how technology, science and society are reshaping the future of family.
The Congress, to be held from 18–21 April 2027 at the Legends Global managed Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC), is expected to attract almost 3,000 delegates from around the world, including leading clinicians, researchers and policymakers, positioning Brisbane at the centre of global conversations about fertility, innovation and access to care.
At a time when fertility rates are declining globally and more people are facing challenges in starting a family, the event will tackle one of the most universal and deeply personal issues of our time, how individuals and couples can access the support they need to build a family, and how that definition of family is evolving.
Under the theme Global Access and Advances in Fertility Care, the Congress will explore the breadth of technology and thinking currently shaping fertility care, from the use of artificial intelligence in embryo selection to emerging 3D modelling technologies helping scientists better understand and recreate the environments needed for life to begin.
But beyond the science, the event will focus on the people at its heart, individuals and families navigating fertility challenges, and the importance of ensuring care is accessible, inclusive and reflective of modern society.
For many, fertility treatment represents hope. Yet globally, access remains limited by cost, geography and cultural barriers. The Congress will provide a platform for international collaboration to address these issues, share knowledge and improve outcomes for people around the world.
Australia is recognised as a global leader in fertility care, with strong clinical outcomes, government support and an inclusive approach that ensures access regardless of marital status, sexual orientation or personal circumstance. Bringing the Congress to Brisbane provides an opportunity to share this approach with the world, particularly across the Asia Pacific region where similar challenges are emerging.
Aligning with the IFFS “More Joy” campaign, the event will highlight the positive impact of fertility care and the importance of giving more people the opportunity to experience the joy of building a family.
The successful international bid to bring the Congress to Australia 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 (TA).
Dr Petra Wale, President of the Fertility Society of Australia and New Zealand said the Congress presents a critical opportunity to shape the future of fertility care globally.
“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.”
Highlighting the significance of the win for Queensland, Tourism and Events CEO, Craig Davidson said securing the Congress was a major win for Queensland’s events calendar and its reputation as a global hub for business events.
“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 said Brisbane’s health sector continued strengthening its global reputation in medical innovation, education and research.
“Health is one of Brisbane’s fastest growing industries and is forecast to grow by 36 per cent by 2031,” Cr Schrinner said.
“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.”
Sally Cope, Executive General Manager, Industry & Business Events at Tourism Australia says, “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.”
Highlighting the broader legacy of the event, BCEC General Manager Kym Guesdon said hosting the Congress reflects Brisbane’s ability to bring the world together around issues that have both scientific and human significance.
“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.”
Media enquiries: Karyn Sutton, Communications and Marketing Manager
T: 07 3308 3022 M: +61 467 721 754 E: [email protected]
