May 4th, 2025Melbourne to host leading diabetes congress
In what is being hailed as a coup for the state’s tourism economy, Melbourne has secured the International Diabetes Federation Western Pacific Region Congress 2026.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos during the week announced that more than 2,500 international experts and people with diabetes will gather at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 18–21 August 2026 to share knowledge and advance efforts to prevent and manage diabetes.
The congress, supported through the state government’s Business Events Fund, is expected to fill 7,500 room nights, support jobs in the business events sector and will further enhance Melbourne’s reputation as a hub of medical research excellence.
The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) worked closely with the Australian Diabetes Society, Diabetes Australia, and the Australian Diabetes Educators Association, and with support from Tourism Australia to secure the event, as part of a commitment by the lead agencies to improve diabetes prevention, management and care.
The Western Pacific region, which spans 38 countries and territories, has 206 million adults living with diabetes, posing a significant challenge to the region’s health systems.
Melbourne is the ideal destination for this congress, with a proven track record in hosting prestigious conferences, supported by ideal event infrastructure, quality accommodation, accessible public transport and exciting city experiences.
In 2023-24, Melbourne hosted 213 events, contributing $371 million in economic impact and delivering 189,000 room nights to city hotels.
The secured event pipeline is strong, with 135 business events already confirmed for Melbourne, equating to $535 million in economic contribution, 243,000 hotel room nights, and 100,000 delegates.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos: “We’re backing our business events sector by funding conferences that will bring large numbers of visitors to Melbourne and Victoria in coming years.”
“Our hotels, restaurants and attractions will all benefit as hundreds of delegates experience the best our city has to offer, with the event also showcasing Victoria’s leadership in diabetes education, care, advocacy and awareness on the global stage.”
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas: “Victoria’s health system is world-class and this event gives us the opportunity to showcase why – bringing together local and global experts to help people living with diabetes.”
