Melbourne has successfully hosted the inaugural Australian editions of Data Center World and the AI Summit, attracting thousands of industry leaders, innovators and decision-makers and cementing Victoria's position as a global destination for technology-focused business events.

Due to the outstanding success of the events’ debut, organisers have confirmed the events will return to Melbourne in 2027. Attracting 1,850 delegates and contributing $8.2 million in economic contribution, the event included key note addresses from leaders from the Australian Department of Defence, Mercedes-Benz, DHL, and Amazon Web Services, as well as Victorian Minister The Hon. Anthony Carbines MP, Minister for Artificial Intelligence and the Digital Economy and Minister for Major Events.

Held at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the co-located events brought together experts from across the data centre, cloud, digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence sectors to explore the technologies shaping the future of business, government and society.

The events featured a comprehensive program of presentations, panel discussions and networking opportunities covering subjects including artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, sustainability, cybersecurity, investment and workforce development, as well as technical tours to see Victoria’s growing network of infrastructure.

Victoria's thriving technology ecosystem, world-class research institutions and rapidly growing digital infrastructure sector provided an ideal backdrop for the events, enabling delegates to connect with local industry leaders and explore opportunities for collaboration and investment.

Quotes attributable to Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive Julia Swanson

“The success of Data Center World Australia and the AI Summit in 2026 demonstrated Melbourne’s ability to bring together global leaders, innovators and industry experts to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping our digital future. We are delighted to welcome both events back to Melbourne in 2027 and look forward to building on this momentum, showcasing Victoria’s strengths as a leading destination for technology investment, innovation and collaboration.”

Quotes attributable to Informa Connect President, Tech Events Marco Pardi

"We're thrilled to be returning to Melbourne for the second year of Data Center World Australia and The AI Summit Australia. Building on the tremendous success and energy of our inaugural event, we're excited to once again bring together the region's most forward-thinking technology leaders and innovators. The 2027 edition will deepen our commitment to fostering innovation at scale, connecting global expertise with Australia's rapidly expanding digital infrastructure landscape, and empowering the community driving the next generation of AI and data centre excellence."

Quote attributable to Informa Australia Managing Director Spiro Anemogiannis

"Returning to Melbourne for Data Center World & The AI Summit Australia 2027 is a testament to the vibrant and rapidly maturing technology ecosystem across the region. Australia is at a pivotal moment in its digital infrastructure journey, and we're proud to provide the platform where industry leaders, innovators, and solution providers come together to shape the future."

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Media enquiries:

Emma Hall, Melbourne Convention Bureau
T +61 429 553 183 E [email protected]