International editions of these events are already held in the US, the UK and Asia. The first Australian editions will be held at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre in September 2026.
“Expanding Data Center World and The AI Summit Series to Melbourne underscores the growing role these event platforms play in powering the global economy,” said Informa Connect’s president of tech events, Marco Pardi.
“Our goal is to convene a connected, global community of technology innovators and enterprise leaders to advance learning, collaboration and the next chapter of AI- and data-driven transformation.”
The bid for the event was helmed by Melbourne Convention Bureau in conjunction with the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions within the Victorian state government. The bid also had support from Australia’s national business events subvention fund, managed by Tourism Australia, the Business Events Bid Fund Program.
The two events are expected to draw more than 1,000 attendees and generate an economic impact of up to $4 million.
With the worldwide data centre sector anticipated to be worth US$4 trillion by 2030, Melbourne is already home to 40 data centres and the largest cluster of AI firms in Australia.
The state government has a Sustainable Data Centre Action Plan and has pinpointed AI and machine learning as a priority sector.
“Victoria is leading the way in digital transformation, and hosting a conference focused on data centres and artificial intelligence will accelerate growth across these critical sectors,” said Victoria’s minister for economic growth and jobs, Danny Pearson.
“This event will attract global innovators and investors, foster partnerships and showcase our state’s advanced infrastructure and talent.
“By positioning Victoria at the forefront of AI and data centre development, we’re driving new opportunities for technology businesses, creating high skill jobs and strengthening our competitive edge in the digital economy.”
Melbourne Convention Bureau’s chief executive, Julia Swanson, said securing the co-located tech events “reinforces” Melbourne’s global reputation as an innovation and technology hub.
“By convening experts in data centres and AI, we’re showcasing Victoria’s cutting-edge capabilities and creating opportunities for collaboration that will shape the future of digital infrastructure.
“This event positions Melbourne as the go-to destination for tech-driven growth and global partnerships.”
