Home NEWS Melbourne to host world’s largest psychology congress

Melbourne to host world’s largest psychology congress

Aug 2, 2021

melbourne_australia — Photo Credit: Melbourne Convention Bureau

Melbourne has been chosen as the host city for the International Congress of Psychology (ICP) 2028, the world’s largest gathering of psychologists from across the globe. Held every four years, ICP 2028 will mark 40 years since it has been held in Australasia and only for the second time in its 132-year history.

The bid led by Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) in partnership with Australian Psychological Society (APS) and with support from the Victorian Government, will see over 5,000 delegates from around the world attend a six-day program held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

It is anticipated this hero event will deliver in excess of $39.2 million economic contributions to the local economy.

Julia Swanson

MCB Chief Executive

MCB Chief Executive, Julia Swanson said Melbourne is recognised for its long tradition of scientific exchange and collaboration across many fields of psychology internationally. This combined with MCB’s track-record of successfully delivering business events placed Melbourne as the ideal host for ICP 2028.

“We’re thrilled to see Melbourne continuing to win high-profile international business events, demonstrating key decision makers’ confidence to choose Melbourne for their next meeting. We look forward to welcoming the International Congress of Psychology in 2028.”

“The journey to secure this event was two years in the making and an incredible example of ‘Team Melbourne’ collaboration. In partnership with the Australia Psychological Society, a highly engaged local organising committee and the very best of Victoria’s business events supply chain, MCB worked solidly to position our city as a leading global business events destination to host this hero event,” said Ms. Swanson.

julia_swanson — Photo Credit: BestCities

Under the unique circumstances presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, MCB leveraged a powerful and innovative suite of virtual and digital assets to connect with ICP key decision-makers in presenting Melbourne’s bid. Working in collaboration with local strategic partner, Harry the hirer, who had invested in remote filming capabilities was crucial to the video production achievements.

Dr Zena Burgess, APS Chief Executive said it’s an incredible opportunity to share the vibrancy of Melbourne with the world at the Congress in 2028 in Melbourne.

“Psychology has grown tremendously in the 40 years since Australasia last hosted an ICP event, and the APS is looking forward to showcasing what psychology can achieve locally and internationally”, said Dr Burgess.

ICP 2028 will provide the chance for delegates to exchange knowledge and foster excellence in standards for education, training, research and the applications of psychology and apply it to local settings in support of the Victorian Mental Health Workforce Strategy.