Pioneering creative and cultural conference South by Southwest (SXSW) is returning to Australia for the second annual SXSW Sydney, with over 1000 events across the Tech & Innovation, Games, Music and Screen pillars in the calendar between 14 and 20 October.
This year’s program of stimulating keynotes, performances, showcases, networking sessions and parties will feature global and local industry leaders, with big names like Tim Minchin, the CEO of Twitch Dan Clancy, Jorja Smith, Nick Kyrgios and The Kid LAROI in the mix.
These are the events the Urban List team will be catching at this year’s SXSW Sydney.
Sophia Wilcox: Head Of Brand & Content
Space – How Moments Create A Movement With Katherine Bennell-Pegg
I can’t wait to learn all about her experiences as one of Australia’s leading space experts, and the future of space exploration from an Australian perspective.
I am curious about the commercial potential of space, especially how industries like tourism, communications, or even fashion might intersect with space exploration. What challenges has she faced as an astronaut, and how does she see Australia's role in space innovation growing over the next decade?
the details
When: Wednesday 16 October, 1pm–2pm
Where: Darling Harbour Theatre, ICC Sydney
More information.
Melanie Perkins In Conversation With Mary Meeker
From her journey with Canva, I want to hear Melanie's insights on building a billion-dollar tech company from the ground up, particularly with such a strong focus on democratising design.
It would be insightful to hear her views on how AI is transforming design and what role Canva might play in shaping that future. I'd also love her lessons learned on navigating the challenges of mass-scaling a business while keeping company culture at the core.
the details
When: Monday 14 October, 10am–11am
Where: Darling Harbour Theatre, ICC Sydney
More information.
Reed Jobs And Wesley Chan In-Conversation
Given the rise of privacy regulations and the increasing importance of ethical AI, I’m eager to hear Wesley’s advice for businesses balancing analytics-driven growth with user privacy. What new opportunities or innovations does he see in the evolving landscape of digital marketing and data analytics? How can companies future-proof their data strategies?
Since he co-founded Google Analytics, I want to hear his take on the future of analytics and AI, particularly around the balance between user data and personalisation.
the details
When: Tuesday 15 October, 4.30pm–5.30pm
Where: Cockle Bay 1, ICC Sydney
More information.
Image credit: SXSW Sydney | Paul McMillan
Jacqui La'Brooy: Chief Commercial Officer
Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention – And How To Get Your Brain Back With Johann Hari
I'm curious to hear Johann's perspective on how modern technology impacts our attention, as it's incredibly relevant in today's hyperconnected world. Having two young children, I value mindfulness and balance—not just for me, but for them too.
I'm eager to hear his solutions for reclaiming focus and well-being, especially in an era where constant digital distractions are the norm.
SXSW Sydney Music
I'm very pumped to see both global and local music acts like Jorja Smith and the showcase of First Nations talent presented by The Kid LAROI. I love the diverse range of genres and boundary-pushing talent in the line-up this year, like jazz singer YenTing Lo from Taiwan and Young D3mz, a singer/rapper from Ghana.
SXSW Sydney Music events can be accessed with SXSW Sydney Badges (from $1995) and SXSW Sydney Music Festival Wristbands (from $140). Check out the full SXSW Sydney Music lineup online.
Rojan Khastoui: Client Service Director
Diversifying Diversity: Beyond Buzzwords Towards Inclusive Innovation
I'm keen to check this out because it’ll go deeper than the usual talk about diversity, with Associate Professor and human-centred software engineering expert Rashina Hoda looking at how different identities and experiences shape the way we create and use tech.
Understanding and connecting with a broad audience is key to what we do at Urban list, and this session will explore how to bring those diverse perspectives into every stage of innovation, and spark fresh ideas on how we can be more inclusive in everything we create.
The details
When: Friday 18 October, 10.30am–11am
Where: Room E3.7, ICC Sydney
More information.
Creators: The New Storefront Driving $6 Billion in Commerce
I’m excited to explore the huge impact that creators have on how we engage with content, and how their influence is transforming the way we communicate and connect online, which feels super relevant to my life professionally and personally.
This session will dive into the world of social commerce and how it’s still evolving, hopefully offering fresh ideas on how creators (like Urban List) can connect with their followers and brands in more meaningful ways.
the details
When: Wednesday 16 October, 4.30pm–5.30pm
Where: Room C2.3, ICC Sydney
More information.
SXSW Sydney Badges, Wristbands (for Music, Screen and Games) and tickets (for the Tech & Innovation Expo and select screenings) are on sale now. Read more about the full program, or plan your visit online.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by SXSW and proudly endorsed by Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.
Main image credit: SXSW Sydney | Jess Gleeson