The Sunshine Coast is reinforcing its position as Australia’s regional epicentre for innovation and technology, setting the stage for a wave of tech-focused business events, conferences and incentives.
As the landing point for the Tabua trans-Pacific subsea cable, the Sunshine Coast is poised to offer unparalleled digital connectivity and resilience, making it an ideal destination for technology conferences and global gatherings.
Pioneering Connectivity and Innovation
The Sunshine Coast Council, in partnership with Google and NEXTDC, have spearheaded the Australia Connect initiative, which has extended the reach and resilience of digital infrastructure in Australia and the Indo-Pacific.
NEXTDC’s SC1 Sunshine Coast data centre in Maroochydore hosts the landing point for the Tabua cable, linking the United States, Australia and Fiji. This advanced infrastructure delivers faster, more reliable internet connectivity, creating a fertile ground for innovation and business collaboration.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the initiative has been a game-changer with creating opportunity in the region.
“This investment has strengthened our reputation as a premier tech-enabled region,” Mayor Natoli said.
“The Maroochydore City Centre is one of Australia’s fastest-growing innovation hubs, offering state-of-the-art infrastructure, premium office spaces and a highly skilled workforce.
“And combining this with NEXTDC’s SC1 Sunshine Coast data centre, offering cutting-edge digital infrastructure creates opportunities for the Sunshine Coast to attract high value tech conferences to the region.”
A Destination Primed for Tech Events
The Sunshine Coast’s digital evolution, coupled with vision for a sustainable and efficient future, makes it a compelling destination for Professional Conference Organisers (PCOs) and event planners targeting the tech industry.
Featuring sovereign and accredited data centre facilities, cutting-edge WiFi 6 technology, and direct international broadband, this critical infrastructure positions the region as a leader in providing tech-enabled business offerings.
With this, the Sunshine Coast offers:
- World-class venues: Premium, scalable event spaces equipped with state-of-the-art facilities with capacity from 50 to 1500 delegates.
- Unmatched accessibility: Proximity to Sunshine Coast and Brisbane airports, offering direct domestic and international connectivity.
- A collaborative ecosystem: A council and community committed to supporting innovation and business growth.
- Head of Business Events Sunshine Coast Ali Thompson said the region was well and truly ready to host tech-focused events.
“The Sunshine Coast offers a unique opportunity for technology conferences to connect, innovate and thrive in an inspiring environment. With cutting-edge digital infrastructure like the Tabua subsea cable and world-class venues, we’re perfectly positioned to host events that push the boundaries of innovation and collaboration.”
A Growing Reputation for Excellence
The Sunshine Coast has garnered international recognition, including multiple Gold awards from the International Economic Development Council, and is the home FWD>>>FEST, a three-day festival for entrepreneurs and innovators, held every year in May.
This, coupled with the arrival of the Tabua subsea cable, further cements the region’s status as a global hub for technology and innovation.
Craig Scroggie, Managing Director and CEO of NEXTDC said the Sunshine Coast’s role in Australia Connect underscores its’ strategic importance to Australia’s thriving digital economy.
“The Australia Connect initiative delivers faster, more resilient digital services for Queensland, Australia and the APAC region.”
Why the Sunshine Coast is the emerging destination for Tech Events and Conferences
With its unique blend of cutting-edge infrastructure, natural beauty, and tailored business solutions, the Sunshine Coast offers a destination where creativity, connectivity, and collaboration thrive.
“Whether hosting a global tech summit, product launch or innovation workshop, we can ensure a seamless and inspiring experience for delegates and stakeholders alike,” said Ms Hooper.
