- Published:
- Tuesday 20 January 2026 at 12:00 pm
In another win for our visitor economy, Melbourne will host an upcoming World Conference on Lung Cancer – the biggest lung cancer conference globally.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today announced the city will welcome the 2029 edition of the conference – bringing more than 6,500 experts from 100 countries.
The event will be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) and is expected to inject more than $34 million into the state’s economy.
The conference is presented by the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) – the only global network dedicated to research and eradication of lung cancer and other thoracic malignancies.
The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) worked with the IASLC and Cancer Council Victoria to secure the Congress, supported by the Allan Labor Government and Business Events Australia.
The Labor Government is strengthening Victoria’s position as a world leader in cancer survival and innovation – backed by the Victorian Cancer Plan 2024–2028. This ambitious roadmap aims to improve outcomes by focusing on prevention, early detection, equitable care and world-class research.
Melbourne is home to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Australia’s only public hospital dedicated to cancer treatment and research, and the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, a global hub for oncology.
The announcement builds on other major medical events recently secured for Melbourne – including the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons Annual Scientific Congress in 2027, which will attract 2,500 delegates and generate an expected $14 million in economic impact.
The city will also host the 30th annual Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology Congress will be held in 2028 – drawing more than 2,000 delegates and delivering an estimated $14 million boost to the economy.
Melbourne will also welcome the 16th annual International Society for Low Vision Research and Rehabilitation (ISLRR) conference in 2027, bringing in 750 delegates and more than $3 million in economic impact.
For more information about any of Victoria’s upcoming major conferences, visit melbournecb.com.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos
“This event will boost our visitor economy, filling hotels, supporting local businesses and driving jobs.”
“It reinforces Victoria’s reputation as a leader in innovation and a premier destination for major international conferences.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas
“Victoria is driving global progress in cancer research – backing our brightest minds through funding, fellowships and cutting-edge infrastructure.”
“By supporting researchers and investing in advanced treatments, we’re breaking new ground in prevention, diagnosis and care.”
Quote attributable to Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive Julia Swanson
“Hosting international medical conferences here not only drives knowledge exchange and collaboration but also delivers significant economic and social benefits to the city and the wider community.”
Quotes attributable to Cancer Council Victoria Chief Executive Officer Todd Harper
“Australia has long been at the forefront of global efforts to reduce the burden of lung cancer – the leading cause of cancer-deaths worldwide.”
“Bringing the world’s leading experts together here provides a powerful opportunity to accelerate progress and ultimately save more lives from lung cancer.”
Quote attributable to Cancer Council Australia Chief Executive Officer Professor Dorothy Keefe PSM MD
“Hosting the World Conference on Lung Cancer in Melbourne highlights Australia’s dedication to world-class research, early detection and equitable care.”