World Ecoacoustics Congress 2026 will bring global delegates to Cairns
Cairns will host the World Ecoacoustics Congress 2026 in partnership with James Cook University. The event will take place at Cairns Convention Centre from August 17 to August 20, 2026.
The World Ecoacoustics Congress 2026 is held every two years by the International Society of Ecoacoustics. The congress brings together scientists, engineers, researchers and environmental experts from around the world. Delegates will discuss new developments in ecoacoustics research and environmental monitoring.
The 2026 event follows previous congresses in Brisbane and Madrid. It will mark only the second time Australia has hosted the international congress.

World Ecoacoustics Congress 2026 highlights Cairns biodiversity
Ecoacoustics studies natural and human-made sound within ecosystems. Researchers use ecoacoustics to better understand biodiversity, conservation and environmental change.
Cairns offers an ideal setting for the World Ecoacoustics Congress 2026 because the region sits between the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics of Queensland. Both locations are globally significant ecosystems with rich biodiversity.
Professor Paul Roe from James Cook University said Cairns provides delegates with direct access to unique rainforest and reef soundscapes.
According to Professor Roe, ecoacoustics can help researchers better understand ecosystem health, biodiversity and the effects of environmental change.
James Cook University supports ecoacoustics research in Australia
James Cook University continues expanding its role in ecoacoustics research across Australia. The university supports projects focused on conservation, environmental monitoring and collaboration with First Nations communities.
One major initiative includes Listening to Country, which helps build ecoacoustic research capacity with First Nations groups across Queensland. The program supports land and sea management through collaborative environmental research.
Professor Roe also leads projects including the Australian Acoustic Observatory and the Open Ecoacoustics initiative. These programs use acoustic sensors and open technology platforms to support conservation research across Australia.
Cairns Convention Centre prepares for international congress
Cairns Convention Centre will host delegates attending the World Ecoacoustics Congress 2026. Local tourism and business leaders expect the event to deliver economic and academic benefits to the region.
Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef said the congress strongly aligns with Cairns’ reputation for science, sustainability and nature-based tourism experiences.
The congress website is already encouraging delegates to explore tourism attractions throughout Tropical North Queensland during their stay in Cairns. Organizers have also opened registration and abstract submissions for the August 2026 event.

Cairns continues growing as an international conference destination
Cairns continues attracting international conferences connected to science, sustainability and environmental research. The World Ecoacoustics Congress 2026 will bring researchers and delegates from around the world to Tropical North Queensland.
Industry leaders say the event will help strengthen Cairns’ position as a destination for international academic and scientific meetings. The congress will also showcase the region’s unique environmental assets to a global audience.
As preparations continue, organizers expect the World Ecoacoustics Congress 2026 to create valuable opportunities for scientific collaboration and tourism growth across the region.

Business Information
Cairns Convention Centre
- Website: Cairns Convention Centre Official Website
- Address: Sheridan Street, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
- Venue Type: Convention and exhibition centre
- Features: Auditorium, arena, ballroom, breakout rooms and waterfront terrace
- Managed By: Legends Global
- Location: Tropical North Queensland near the Great Barrier Reef
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