All our partner hotels are located close to the SXSW Sydney precinct, which means you’ll be within walking distance of everything going on across the city.

Book your accommodation right now through our website direct with Accor.

By booking direct through our website, you will receive a 5% discount on the current best rate available.

All changes and cancellations are managed directly with the hotel. Please refer to your hotel booking confirmation email for instructions on how to request any changes.

South By Southwest dedicates itself to helping creative people achieve their goals. Founded in 1987 in Austin, Texas, SXSW Sydney is heading out of America for the first time to Sydney, Australia. The harbour city will host a collision of creativity and culture for changemakers near and far.

Held across 8 days and 7 nights from October 15-22, 2023 — you’ll see the convergence of innovation, music, screen, tech, games and culture. An essential destination for global professionals, SXSW Sydney features sessions, showcases, screenings, exhibitions, and a variety of networking opportunities – proving that the most unexpected discoveries happen when diverse topics and people come together.

SXSW Sydney acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation as the Traditional Custodians of the land where the event will take place. Representation is important to us and with the guidance of local Traditional Custodians, we are working to ensure the event recognises and respectfully upholds inclusive cultural protocols.

This year, SXSW Sydney has partnered with Awesome Black – a First Nations founded creative agency – to provide curatorial consulting and guidance across the entire SXSW Sydney program.

Awesome Black is a staunchly strengths-based and future-focussed organisation, dedicated to highlighting the innate power and talents of First Nations peoples and communities. Committed to cultivating partnerships with organisations that advance and empower their mission, Awesome Black has supported the SXSW Sydney team to ensure increased First Nations representation in all areas of the program.

Bringing together inspired thinkers, creators and innovators in Tech & Innovation, Games, Music and Screen from across the world – SXSW Sydney will host a series of festivals, a conference and an expo, parties and more. Anything from 1:1 mentoring workshops to keynote speakers, interactive panels to networking lounges, film screenings to live music performances, tech demos to art installations, and of course – plenty of surprises.

SXSW Sydney is an extension of the Austin event (and the first time the festival’s leaving home soil), delivering a program and experience that honours the original spirit while bringing Sydney’s own unique flair. As the gateway to Asia-Pacific, expect a whole host of innovation and creativity from the region that you won’t find anywhere else, plus Sydney’s harbourside view and sunny-side attitude! The event will take place across one week – so we’ll be packing a mighty punch. If you’re a SXSW maestro, you’ll notice some of our event formats and badge structures have been tweaked, and for our inaugural event, we won’t be including SXSW Edu. And while Tech and Innovation will still be major driving forces within the SXSW Sydney event, they won’t sit under the “SXSW Sydney Interactive” banner.

The SXSW Sydney website at www.sxswsydney.com is your first stop for information on the event, including news, the event’s history, and detailed information on the conference, festivals, and exhibitions. Check out the website footer to sign-up for our newsletters – you’ll be the first to know about any important updates about the event. For fresh content and highlights, find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Linkedin under “@SXSWSydney”.

The SXSW Sydney Conference will discuss all things Tech & Innovation, Games, Music and Screen through multiple tracks. Each track has been designed for the SXSW Sydney community to experience the latest in forward-thinking ideas within their industry, and unlock the unexpected discoveries made possible when a diverse range of topics converge on stage.

Head to our Conference page for a breakdown of each of the 19 tracks we’ll explore during SXSW Sydney 2023.

Unless specific age restrictions are stated in the SXSW Sydney Online Schedule, all SXSW Conference and Festival programming may be attended by properly credentialed persons.

Children under the age of 15 may attend if accompanied, at all times, by a properly credentialed adult over the age of 18. To ensure the enjoyment of all attendees, it’s important that adults accompanied by children respect the right of all to participate in SXSW Sydney without disruption and without concern for the safety of children.

We ask that adults concerned about age admission policies and age-appropriateness of specific programming use common sense and rely on the online schedule for guidance. SXSW Sydney attendees are subject to the age restrictions of each venue, including clubs and bars.

SXSW Sydney has built a world-renowned brand across its 35-year history in Austin, TX.

By combining its globally recognised profile with a highlighted focus on the incredible creative strengths of the Asia Pacific region, SXSW Sydney reserves a newly rejuvenated position on the global major events calendar; as 2023’s must-attend city conference for discovery by creators and innovators worldwide.

No, SXSW Sydney 2023 will be a completely live event.

SXSW Sydney is about discovery, networking and fun – all within a walkable footprint across Central Sydney and surrounding neighbourhoods. From Haymarket, Darling Harbour, Ultimo, to Chippendale and beyond – the city’s best museums, cinemas, parks, bars and restaurants will transform into a vibrant interconnected hub of future-focused ideas, parties, unique events and networking opportunities to uncover on every street corner.

Nothing is more important to us than the health and safety of our community. To ensure that we keep everyone as safe as is reasonably possible, SXSW Sydney will adhere to health regulations and COVID Safety protocols that are in place at the time of the event. These requirements may change based on advice from NSW Health, so please be sure to visit this page for the latest information.

A SXSW Sydney badge will grant you access to groundbreaking events, and a chance to connect with some of the world’s leading thinkers, performers and industry professionals. It’s your ticket into our Conference, Expo, Festivals, Networking sessions and more, with each badge type giving you varying degrees of access.

Each Badge gives you different levels of access at SXSW Sydney. A Platinum Badge is the best way to experience everything, giving you primary access to all events, including exclusive VIP experiences. Industry Badges are designed to prioritise access to industry-specific events, networking sessions and festivals. Both Platinum and Industry Badge holders get first pick of our partner hotels at a discounted rate too!

To enquire about group bookings please reach out to ticketing@sxswsydney.com

Throughout SXSW Sydney, some events will be busy and reach capacity quickly – so each will have a Primary and Secondary line to manage crowds. If you want primary access for every event – the Platinum badge is the way to go. Industry badges will get you primary access to all of the events specifically relating to your industry, and secondary access to everything else. There’ll be hundreds of exciting events to join with any badge, so you’ll have endless opportunities to get inspired, meet new people and discover the unexpected.

There will be four phases of badge sales for SXSW Sydney 2023. Each phase is subject to a price increase, so the sooner you register, the more you will save. You can find out more including our pricing schedule here.

It is highly unlikely that individual tickets will be available for SXSW Sydney. There are various levels of access available to be able to enjoy everything the event has to offer.

A Platinum Badge grants access to the full event, and industry-focused badges (Tech & Innovation, Games, Music and Screen) to their respective industry events.

Access to a curated collection of events, launches and parties across Games, Music or Screen is available via a wristband, plus one day passes to the Expo.

See the Attend page for more information.

You will need your credential confirmation email that will be emailed to you closer to the event, along with valid photo ID. If you have any enquiries relating to your credential purchase, please contact us here.

Information about our policies regarding refunds and use of credentials can be found here in our terms and conditions. Please make sure to read and understand these before making any purchases.

There are multiple options available to people who cannot purchase a badge at full price.

Students attending tertiary education organisations (universities, TAFE or private colleges), can access a free Tech & Innovation Expo Pass, or a 50 % discount on a SXSW Sydney Industry badge. Free Tech & Innovation Expo passes are available to students who have graduated in 2022, 2023 or will graduate in 2024. Students are eligible for the Badge discount if they are currently studying or graduated in 2022 or 2023. Students must use their tertiary education provider-issued email address when redeeming these offers. For more information, please contact your tertiary education provider or info@sxswsydney.com.

SXSW Sydney is also collaborating with Social Enterprises Australia to provide free badges to people working in social enterprise, cultural and creative sectors who meet specific eligibility criteria including, but not limited to: background, financial constraints, and geographical location.  For more information and to view the program terms & conditions, visit Social Enterprises Australia’s website. Expressions of interest will be accepted until the 24^th of September 2023 and successful applicants will be advised from 2 October 2023.

It is highly unlikely that individual tickets will be available for SXSW Sydney. There are various levels of access available to be able to enjoy everything the event has to offer.

A Platinum Badge grants access to the full event, and industry-focused badges (Tech & Innovation, Games, Music and Screen) to their respective industry events.

Access to a curated collection of events, launches and parties across Games, Music or Screen is available via a wristband, plus one day passes to the Expo.

See the Attend page for more information.

It is highly unlikely that individual tickets will be available for SXSW Sydney gigs. A Music Festival Wristband is the best way to avoid disappointment and access 300 electrifying performances from the best emerging and established Australian and international artists, spread across 25 iconic venues over four unforgettable days.

It is highly unlikely that individual tickets will be available for SXSW Sydney gaming events. A Games Festival Wristband is the best way to avoid disappointment and access Australia’s biggest curated collection of upcoming indie games — from over 150 game developers from around the world — at our Games Festival Showcase. Plus, the Tabletop Expo; a mix of live gameplay, performances and special screenings at our Festival Stage; the Games Awards hosted by Tom Cardy; and the Charity Marathon Stream.

It is highly unlikely that individual tickets will be available for SXSW Sydney screenings. A Screen Festival Wristband is the best way to avoid disappointment and access all of the screen events around Sydney, including red carpet premieres at the ICC’s Darling Theatre and cinemas across the inner city, a special First Nations Screen Festival and an XR showcase.

SXSW Sydney 2023 Screen Festival welcomes applications from a range of emerging and established screen talent, both local and international. Submissions are now open – please see our ‘Participate’ page.

You can submit proposals for panels, solo presentations, workshops and more across multiple Tracks of programming via our platform, Session Select.

It’s a place where we can connect with a vast number of creative professionals, experienced experts and informed consumers to contribute their valuable ideas from around the world.

For more info, visit our SXSW Sydney Session Select page.

To find out more information about how you can get involved in the Expo, please complete the form here, and our team will get in touch.

SXSW Sydney Music Festival welcomes applications from a range of emerging and established talent, both local and international. Submissions are now closed for 2023 – please see our ‘Participate’ page for more information.

The SXSW Sydney Conference will discuss all things Tech & Innovation, Games, Music and Screen through multiple tracks. Each track has been designed for the SXSW Sydney community to experience the latest in forward-thinking ideas within their industry, and unlock the unexpected discoveries made possible when a diverse range of topics converge on stage.

Head to our Conference page for a breakdown of each of the 19 tracks we’ll explore during SXSW Sydney 2023.

A core part of the SXSW Sydney event is its Conference. It will take place in multiple venues including ICC Sydney, UTS, The Powerhouse Museum and more – and will feature more than 400 keynotes, presentations, panels, workshops and mentor sessions with inspiring thinkers and leaders from around the world.

The Games Festival Showcase is open for all unreleased titles, and titles released by independent studios no earlier than 1 January 2021. If you’re unsure whether your title meets these criteria, please contact our programming team at gamesfest@sxswsydney.com

Your primary contact should be someone that is authorised to respond on behalf of the developer, and also someone that frequently checks their email. All notifications from SXSW Sydney will be sent to the Primary Contact’s email address, and it’s important they are responded to in a timely fashion. 

You’ll receive a confirmation email from the SXSW Sydney team within 48 hours of submitting an application. If you do not receive a confirmation email within that time, please contact gamesfest@sxswsydney.com as soon as possible to ensure your showcase application has been received.

The SXSW 2023 Games Festival programming team reads, plays, and evaluates submissions according to the following criteria: originality, technicality, graphical, narrative game design, and gameplay. Every single submission is reviewed and assessed by multiple parties. Following the assessment, successful applicants will receive an invitation to showcase at SXSW Sydney. 

Unfortunately, as we anticipate a large number of submissions, it will not be possible to accommodate every application. 

A submission is a request to showcase your title at the SXSW Sydney 2023 Games Festival. A Games Badge is a pass that allows you to attend SXSW Sydney events. 

You don’t need to purchase a Badge to make a submission for the Games Festival. Regardless of whether your submission is successful, all Games Festival applicants will have the opportunity to purchase a Badge at the lowest rate. 

Please note: If you buy a Badge at a higher rate, or you decided not to attend if you’re unsuccessful in your Games Festival submission, refunds are not available.

Each developer will receive two SXSW Sydney 2023 Games Badges if their application to showcase is successful. 

Successful developer teams will also have the option to purchase additional SXSW Sydney 2023 Games Badges at the lowest rate. 

Each successful applicant will be provided with a station that is powered and equipped with a PC, monitor, mouse, and keyboard. Any additional equipment such as consoles, controllers, or headsets must be supplied by the applicant. Please note that additional equipment that uses power sources must meet the AS/NZS 3760 Test and Tag standard. 

If you have any questions regarding technical support please contact gamesfest@sxswsydney.com. 

We strongly recommend securing your accommodation as soon as you receive your invitation for the Showcase. This will ensure you can select from the widest variety of available hotels. 

SXSW Sydney 2023 Games Festival submissions are now closed. We encourage you to sign up to our newsletter to stay informed about future opportunities.  

Of course! There are many opportunities for game developers and games creatives beyond the Showcase. The SXSW Sydney Conference will feature mentor sessions, panel discussions, interviews, meet-and-greets, and countless other opportunities to network and take the next step in your career. 

If you are not successful in your submission to showcase at the SXSW Sydney 2023 Games Festival, you can purchase a Badge at the lowest rate and experience everything SXSW Sydney has to offer. 

SXSW Sydney Music Festival welcomes applications from a range of emerging and established talent, both local and international. Submissions are now closed for 2023 – please see our ‘Participate’ page for more information.

The SXSW Sydney Music Festival offers a chance for both emerging and established artists to showcase their work, performing in front of industry reps, media, thousands of fans and fellow musicians from across the globe. No matter the genre, if you’re signed or unsigned, solo or part of a group, SXSW Sydney Music Festival offers artists the opportunity to enhance their careers with unparalleled access to industry leaders.

Taking place from 18 – 21 October 2023, the SXSW Sydney Music Festival will span across 25 iconic venues amongst the event precinct and neighbouring suburbs in Sydney, Australia.

The SXSW Sydney Music Festival will showcase:

• All music genres
• Artists from around the world
• Signed and unsigned artists
• Solo artists and musical groups
• Emerging and established artists

Music showcase submissions are now closed.

Additional Details: If selected to showcase, artists and/or members of performing acts will receive SXSW Sydney 2023 Artist Accreditation. Artist Accreditation grants access to official SXSW Sydney music showcases, conference programming, parties, artist specific activations, networking opportunities and more (unless otherwise noted). Some acts may be scheduled for more than one official showcase. Foreign, non-Australian performers are responsible for securing their own visas for entry into Australia.

Invited artists do not need to purchase a SXSW Sydney 2023 Music Badge to apply for or to perform at a SXSW Sydney 2023 showcase. Artists who are not selected to perform will be able to purchase SXSW Sydney 2023 Music Badges at the lowest available rate after notification of status, if they choose to do so. There are no refunds if you purchase a registration at a higher rate or decide not to attend if you are not offered a showcase.

The person listed as Primary Contact in your SXSW Sydney 2023 Music Festival Showcase submission should be authorised to respond on behalf of the act applying and frequently checks their email. Notifications from SXSW Sydney will be sent to the Primary Contact email address and will require timely responses.

To keep important SXSW Sydney emails from landing in your spam folder, add the following address to your contact list: musicfest@sxswsydney.com.

The SXSW Sydney 2023 Music Festival programming team listens to and evaluates artist submissions according to originality, technical ability, song-writing skills, career establishment, export readiness and overall artistry. Every submission is reviewed and evaluated by multiple parties, then invitations are extended to those selected to perform. As SXSW Sydney anticipates a large number of submissions, it is unfortunately not possible to invite and accommodate every great act who applies.

For the inaugural event, SXSW Sydney will offer showcasing artists the choice of an Artist Wristband for each performing member of the artist and its management representative (limited to one manager per artist) or a one-off payment of AUD$350 (regardless of how many showcases it performs). The Artist Wristband provides access to the SXSW Sydney 2023 Music Festival and Conference as well as the Young Henrys Artist Lounge.

An administration fee of AUD$55 per artist submission applies.

The SXSW Sydney Artist accreditation provides you with the opportunity to make the most of SXSW Sydney 2023 by providing the same access as a Music badge as well as access to the official SXSW Sydney 2023 artists lounge.

Enjoy primary access to:

• Conference Keynotes
• Conference Panels and Featured Sessions
• SXSW Sydney Tech & Innovation Expo
• Music Festival Shows and Events
• Music Industry Workshops and Mentor Sessions
• Music Industry Meet-ups, Networking Events and Parties
• Music Industry Showcases, Launches and Exclusive Events

And secondary access to all other activities across the week, including:

• Tech Industry Meet-ups, Networking Events and Parties
• Tech Industry Showcases, Launches and Exclusive Events
• Startup Pitch
• Games Ex
• Games Festival
• Games Industry Meet-ups, Networking Events and Parties
• Games Industry Showcases, Launches and Exclusive Events
• Screen Festival Screenings and Events
• Screen Festival Exclusive Premieres
• Screen Industry Meet-ups, Networking Events and Parties
• Screen Industry Showcases, Launches and Exclusive Events

Opportunities for performers do not stop at showcases. The SXSW Sydney Conference offers informative panels, mentor sessions, artist and industry leader interviews, attendee lounges and parties, endless opportunities to network, and more. As a Music Festival Showcase applicant, if you are not offered a showcase, you can purchase a SXSW Sydney 2023 Music Badge at the lowest rate and access the many benefits of SXSW Sydney 2023. Email musicfest@sxswsydney.com for questions.

A submission is a request to be considered for an official showcase performance slot at the SXSW Sydney 2023 Music Festival. A SXSW Sydney 2023 Music Badge is a credential that allows the holder to attend SXSW Sydney 2023 events. Artists do not need to purchase a SXSW Sydney badge to make a showcase application. All applying artists, whether accepted to showcase or not, will be able to buy a SXSW Sydney badge to attend SXSW Sydney 2023 at the lowest rate after notification of status, if they choose to do so. If you buy a badge at a higher rate or decide not to attend if you are not offered a showcase, refunds are not available.

An administration fee of $55 per submission applies.

We recommend booking your hotel rooms as soon as you receive your acceptance. Making your hotel arrangements early will allow you the most hotel selections. We invite you to explore the range of SXSW Sydney exclusive accommodation options available here.

As a SXSW Sydney 2023 Screen Festival applicant, if you are not offered a showcase, you will then be given the opportunity to purchase a SXSW Sydney 2023 Badge at the lowest rate and access the many benefits of SXSW Sydney.

From feature premieres to short films, music videos and episodics, XR and AR projects and everything in between – the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival will be a game changer for filmmakers and screen creatives. Hosting a range of screenings, panels and events with leading industry experts, this is an exceptional opportunity to be at the forefront of discovery, creativity, and innovation.

The SXSW Sydney 2023 Screen Festival takes place 15-22 October 2023 in Sydney, Australia.

SXSW Sydney Screen Festival will showcase:

• Features – Narrative and Documentary (40 mins or above)
• Episodic / TV
• Shorts films (less than 40 mins)
• Music videos (less than 10 mins)
• XR experiences

The premiere status of your submission is an important factor. However, it is not absolute. All things being equal, a higher premiere status will get the spot. Premiere requirements will vary by screening section.

SXSW Sydney recognises the following premiere statuses:

World Premiere: your submission has never screened before, online or at a physical festival or cinema.
Australian Premiere: your submission has* screened outside of Australia.
Sydney / NSW Premiere: your submission has* screened in Australia, but not in Sydney or the State of NSW in Australia.
Not a premiere: your submission has* screened in Sydney or the State of NSW in Australia.

*Already has or will have by October 2023.

SXSW Sydney does not place any restrictions on the premiere status of music videos. We recognise that the vast majority of music videos screened at SXSW Sydney 2023 will have premiered online prior to the festival.

It’s important to note that only OFFICIAL ARTIST APPROVED music videos are eligible for SXSW Sydney, meaning that the music video should be the official music video for that song by that artist, that is, the artist and/or label commissioned the video and have approved the creation. SXSW Sydney will require proof of approval if your music video is selected.

Entries for the SXSW Sydney 2023 Screen Festival are now closed.

SXSW Sydney requires all projects to be submitted digitally, via URL link. If you change this link without contacting SXSW Sydney, your submission may become ineligible for consideration.

• Your submission link must be to a secure, online version of your film via an external site (i.e. your own website, Vimeo, etc.) and must be working before you submit your application.
• If you submit a project which contains dialogue in a language other than English, please include English subtitles.
• Please do not send physical copies (e.g. DVD, Blu-Ray) as physical media will not be considered.

For more information visit our SXSW Sydney 2023 Screen Festival submissions page. Once you’ve read through that information, submit your film or project!

• Feature Film: over 40 mins.
• Episodic/TV: no time restrictions on Episodic submissions.
• Short Film: under 40 mins.
• Music video: must be under 10 minutes in length.
• XR Experience: no time restrictions.

The premiere status of your submission is an important factor. However, it is not absolute. All things being equal, a higher premiere status will get the spot. Premiere requirements will vary by screening section.

SXSW Sydney recognises the following premiere statuses:

• World Premiere: your submission has never screened before, online or at a physical festival or cinema.
• Australian Premiere: your submission has* screened outside of Australia.
• Sydney / NSW Premiere: your submission has* screened in Australia, but not in Sydney or the State of NSW in Australia.
• Not a premiere: your submission has* screened in Sydney or the State of NSW in Australia.

*Already has or will have by October 2023.

SXSW Sydney does not place any restrictions on the premiere status of music videos. We recognise that the vast majority of music videos screened at SXSW Sydney 2023 will have premiered online prior to the festival.

It’s important to note that only OFFICIAL ARTIST APPROVED music videos are eligible for SXSW Sydney, meaning that the music video should be the official music video for that song by that artist, that is, the artist and/or label commissioned the video and have approved the creation. SXSW Sydney will require proof of approval if your music video is selected.

• Features: $95.00, including GST
• Shorts / Music Videos / XR / Episodic: $55.00, including GST

Unfortunately not.

Information about our policies regarding refunds and use of credentials can be found here in our terms and conditions. Please make sure to read and understand these before making any purchases.

No. SXSW Sydney cannot accept any materials regarding submissions outside of the official SXSW Sydney Screen Festival submissions platform. Unfortunately, we receive too many submissions to accept stills, trailers, EPKs or other assets. Additionally, our audience will only be seeing your project, so our team makes its programming decisions based on the work itself.

Aligning with our goal to make SXSW Sydney a green event, we also request that you do not send any physical media kits, photos or any other extraneous material.

You will receive three emails from SXSW Sydney after successfully making your submission:

1. Receipt for your SXSW Sydney Screen Festival submission fee.
2. Submission confirmation — email confirmation that SXSW Sydney has received your submission within 24 hours of you making it through our Screen Festival submissions portal. If you do not receive this within 24 hours, please email screenfest@sxswsydney.com to ensure your submission has been received and is under consideration.
3. Screen Festival decision — it takes several months for the SXSW Sydney programming team to finalise the selection process. SXSW Sydney will send notifications beginning mid 2023. All applicants will be informed of their submissions’ status no later than 1 Sept, 2023.

A submission is a request to be considered for a screening slot at the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival. A Screen Badge is a credential that allows the holder to attend SXSW Sydney events.

You do not need to purchase a badge to make a Screen Festival submission. All Screen Festival applications, whether their submissions are accepted or not, will be able to buy a badge to attend SXSW Sydney at the lowest rate after notification of status, if they choose to do so. If you buy a badge at a higher rate or decide not to attend if you are not offered a showcase, refunds are not available.

We will require a DCP (Digital Cinema Package) file for exhibition playback at all SXSW Sydney Screen Festival events. A backup format may be required in addition to the DCP. You can email screenfest@sxswsydney.com for further questions concerning exhibition playback.

All XR Experiences accepted as part of the festival may be required to provide their preferred supported devices and additional technical support for the duration of the exhibition during SXSW Sydney 2023. Please email screenfest@sxswsydney.com if you have any further questions.

No. SXSW Sydney provides a limited number of complimentary SXSW Sydney Screen badges for applicants whose projects are accepted into the SXSW Sydney 2023 Screen Festival. Successful applicants must cover their own travel and accommodation costs and will not be compensated monetarily.

Opportunities for filmmakers and screen creatives do not stop at screenings. The SXSW Sydney 2023 Conference offers informative panels, mentor sessions, artist and industry leader interviews, attendee lounges and parties, endless opportunities to network, and more. As a SXSW Sydney 2023 Screen Festival applicant, if you are not offered a showcase, you can purchase a SXSW Sydney 2023 Badge at the lowest rate and access the many benefits of SXSW Sydney.
Email screenfest@sxswsydney.com for questions.

If selected for the SXSW Sydney 2023 Screen festival, each film will receive two SXSW Sydney Filmmaker Accreditations.
Each successful team also has an option to purchase additional discounted SXSW Sydney 2023 Screen badges at the early bird price.

The SXSW Sydney 2023 Filmmaker accreditation provides you with the opportunity to make the most of SXSW Sydney 2023 by providing the same access as a SXSW Sydney 2023 Screen badge PLUS access to the official SXSW Sydney filmmakers lounge.

Enjoy primary access to:

• Conference Keynotes
• Conference Panels and Featured Sessions
• SXSW Sydney Tech & Innovation Expo
• Screen Festival Screenings and Events
• Screen Festival Exclusive Premieres
• Screen Industry Workshops and Mentor Sessions
• Screen Industry Meet-ups, Networking Events and Parties
• Screen Industry Showcases, Launches and Exclusive Events

And secondary access to all other activities across the week, including:

• Tech Industry Meet-ups, Networking Events and Parties
• Tech Industry Showcases, Launches and Exclusive Events
• Startup Pitch
• Games Ex
• Games Festival
• Games Industry Meet-ups, Networking Events and Parties
• Games Industry Showcases, Launches and Exclusive Events
• Music Festival Shows and Events
• Music Industry Meet-ups, Networking Events and Parties
• Music Industry Showcases, Launches and Exclusive Events

We recommend booking your hotel rooms as soon as you receive your acceptance.

Please send your film in the most complete and finished form possible. While SXSW Sydney does accept work-in progress cuts, we will not consider more complete versions after your application has been submitted. Note that work-in-progress cuts must be at picture lock; temporary sound or colour is acceptable.

As part of your application, you will be asked to provide a list of incomplete elements, which should include detail on the state of your work’s colour-correction, sound mix, special effects, etc.

To reiterate: SXSW Sydney will only review the first submitted cut. Please do not submit trailers, screenplays, press kits, or anything else in lieu of a completed (or near-completed) film.

We recommend booking your hotel rooms as soon as you receive your acceptance. Making your hotel arrangements early will allow you the most hotel selections. We invite you to explore the range of SXSW Sydney exclusive accommodation options available here.

Session Select is a session proposal platform that gives the SXSW Sydney 2023 community a significant voice in programming conference activities (presentations, panels, discussions, talks etc.) for the SXSW Sydney Conference. Prospective speakers submit their session ideas to Session Select, then the community, our independent industry evaluators and SXSW Sydney staff choose the best proposals.

Session Select is SXSW Sydney’s version of SXSW PanelPicker®. which is an important part of the annual SXSW event in Austin, TX.

Submissions for SXSW Sydney 2023 Session Select are currently closed. Stay tuned for public voting and future announcements.

Submissions for SXSW Sydney 2023 Session Select are currently closed. 

Please note that we are unable to receive proposals after the deadline.

Public voting will commence soon after the closing of submissions. We will update these FAQs and the SXSW Sydney 2023 Session Select site with further information soon.

A combination of public voting, feedback from the SXSW Sydney’s programming teams and independent industry evaluators and advisors are all taken into account.

SXSW Sydney 2023 Session Select will follow a similar model as SXSW PanelPicker® selection process.

The Primary Contact is considered the session organiser for this idea and will be listed in the Session Select public interface as such. They are the person ultimately responsible for turning the proposal into a reality.

All SXSW Sydney 2023 communications will go through the Primary Contact and they are responsible for communicating this information to their speakers (if applicable).

The Primary Contact can also be a speaker on the session they are organising, but do not necessarily have to participate directly.

If you will not be organising the session yourself, you should enter the name of the person who will ultimately be responsible for the session in the Primary Contact section. This person will be responsible for every aspect of the proposal if it is chosen to be a part of SXSW Sydney 2023 Conference.

At time of entry, if you are not sure who will be the final Primary Contact, enter your own details – you will have the opportunity to change the Primary Contact if your proposal is accepted.

No. We ask for a lot of information to help SXSW Sydney staff and our evaluators fully evaluate all proposals. However, only a select amount of information about your idea will appear in the public interface.

Your contact information and any contact information you provide for proposed speakers in your proposal will NOT be viewable to the public or during voting processes. The HELP ICON (?) will indicate which contact information is NOT viewable.

• The information below will be viewable in the public interface:
• Primary Contact’s name
• Primary Contact’s website URL
• Primary Contact’s job title / company or organisation
• Names of proposed speakers
• Speakers’ social media profiles / website links
• Session title
• Session description
• Session takeaways
• Speaker biography / title / company or organisation

Proposals should be specific, well-titled and illustrative of the impact of your ideas and the depth of research behind them.

• The more specific a proposal, the better.
• Catchy titles are great, but remember your title is going to be fighting for attention with hundreds of other titles. Direct and explanatory titles work best.
• The supporting material you enter helps viewers to understand your proposal and distinguish it from other submissions. Materials you submit become visible
• When the SXSW Sydney 2023 Session Select voting phase begins, so it’s important that you have the right to use anything you include

Session Select is SXSW Sydney’s version of the SXSW PanelPicker®. You can find plenty of ideas and tips online and you can also find a selection of video excerpts from previous SXSW events by visiting the SXSW YouTube Channel.

• SXSW PanelPicker®.
• SXSW YouTube Channel.

SXSW Sydney’s Conference held in 2023 will feature many different session formats. Below are some possible formats you can submit via Session Select.

If you can’t see your format in the drop-down box, that’s okay. Simply specify this in the session description.

All sessions can include audience Q&A and are 60 minutes unless it’s a workshop, meet-up or mentoring session.

Session Formats

• Panel (4 speakers): diverse discussion around a particular topic. Four speakers maximum including a moderator, if applicable. Live podcast recordings can be part of this format. 60 minutes.
• Presentation (1-2 speakers): a prepared presentation, talk, interview, conversation or book reading by a recently published author. Live podcast recordings can be part of this format. 60 minutes.
• Workshop (1-2 speakers): deep dive sessions with more hands-on learning activities and specific takeaways for professional growth and development. 60-120 minutes.
• Meet-up (1-2 hosts): networking event of like-minded attendees around a particular topic. 60-120 minutes.
• Mentor Session (1-on-1): session with an industry expert. The Mentor counsels each individual attendee for fifteen minutes, meeting with up to five registrants. 75 minutes total. To nominate someone or yourself as a mentor, please make this clear in the session description.

Speaker diversity plays an extremely important role in the decision making process.

The most interesting sessions are ones that include different perspectives. When choosing speakers keep in mind these basic diversity guidelines.

All sessions with three or more speakers should aim to include diversity in gender, ethnicity, stage of career, age, disability, or thought and opinion.

We understand that some sessions work best with full representation of a particular group and will review these on a case by case basis.

The moderator is a neutral party that helps run the session and leads the panel discussion. Having a neutral moderator will help keep your session focused on the proposed topic and will allow for a more balanced presentation. This is strongly recommended to ensure all points of views on a given panel are equally represented.

Ideally, yes. All speakers (and moderator, if applicable) should be confirmed before being added, since the speakers listed on a proposal will have an impact on the selection process. To that end, we ask for a lot of information about each speaker, including contact information and how they can contribute to the session.

Blatantly advertorial content or sales pitches disguised as information is unlikely to progress to the Public Voting stage. We are looking for compelling and balanced content that highlights many solutions to a particular issue.

This is not to say that audiences will not be interested in discovering the latest new media products and services, so if your intention is to introduce your innovative product or service to the SXSW Sydney 2023 audience, contact our sales representatives for information on the many opportunities we offer to companies looking to make an impact on SXSW Sydney 2023 audiences.

For SXSW Sydney 2023 Partnership opportunities, please contact partnerships@sxswsydney.com

Submissions cannot be edited now the deadline for session select has closed for SXSW Sydney 2023.

• How can I vote in SXSW Sydney 2023 Session Select?

During the public voting phase all you need to do is create a Session Select account. Your sign-up information remains completely confidential.

• Can I encourage my friends to vote for my proposal, or promote it on my blog or social media?

Yes. Rallying support for your idea can be an important part of the process, but large voting totals do not guarantee acceptance.

• Will SXSW Sydney post the voting totals?

No, we won’t post voting totals because we don’t want to influence anyone’s voting.

If your proposal is accepted, the hard work is just beginning! SXSW Sydney team will reach out to you with more information after the votes are tallied and decisions are made.

The best sessions are the ones in which the organiser has devoted a significant amount of time to the process. As well as providing logistical and schedule information, where necessary we will work with you to refine and polish your idea in the months leading up to SXSW Sydney 2023.

• Accepted Session Select proposals will receive ONE PLATINUM BADGE at SXSW Sydney 2023. This may be used by the Primary Contact or allocated to another speaker in your session; and
• Speakers in your session (up to four individuals maximum), will receive the opportunity to register their interest to receive a complimentary day pass to attend any SXSW Sydney 2023 Conference session. The complimentary day pass will only be valid on the same day as your session or sessions if you are participating in multiple sessions across the SXSW Sydney 2023 event dates; and
• Additionally, speakers in your session (up to four individuals maximum) will receive the opportunity to purchase one Platinum Badge to attend SXSW Sydney 2023 at a special Session Select discounted rate.

Exact details of the above admission to SXSW Sydney 2023 will be communicated to you in 2023.

Yes. At any point through completing your proposal, you can click the ‘Preview’ button at the bottom of the Session Select Application Form. On the ‘My Entries’ dashboard you can also view a PDF version of your entry by clicking the icon on the left.

Session Select is created through Awards Force. If you have used Awards Force before, please login with your previous email and update password if you need to. Otherwise, you can register a new email address.

For any questions, please contact sessionselect@sxswsydney.com

Session Select is a session proposal platform that gives the SXSW Sydney 2023 community a significant voice in programming conference activities (presentations, panels, discussions, talks etc.) for the SXSW Sydney Conference. Prospective speakers submit their session ideas to Session Select, then the community, our independent industry evaluators and SXSW Sydney staff choose the best proposals.

Submissions for SXSW Sydney 2023 Session Select are currently closed.

A combination of public voting, feedback from the SXSW Sydney’s programming teams and independent industry evaluators and advisors are all taken into account. SXSW Sydney 2023 Session Select will follow a similar model as SXSW PanelPicker® selection process.

Game Developers and content creators who are Platinum and Games Badge holders were given the opportunity to be matched up with prospective investors, funding bodies and publishers at SXSW Sydney 2023.

These one-on-one Matchmade Investor Sessions are a chance to pitch your game, develop your network and discuss funding opportunities.

Successful applicants will be notified closer to the event and provided with their custom schedule in early October. They will be allocated 30 minute sessions with any relevant matches throughout the Investment Meet, happening between October 18-20.

Registrations for the Investment Meet have now closed. If you registered, you will be contacted closer to the event with more information regarding your match. 

Prospective investors and publishers can still register interest by contacting gamesfest@sxswsydney.com for a chance to be included.  

SXSW Sydney Pitch is a competition for startups across a range of industries. This event is a platform for thought leaders with ground-breaking and creative ideas to compete for prizes and the opportunity to present their pitch as part of SXSW in Austin.

Investment Meet is a series of Matchmade Investor Sessions, informal meetings spaces, networking mixers, pitch nights, seminars and workshops that allow up-and-coming game developers to meet with investors, publishers and agencies to gain support and funding opportunities for their games. This is a non-competitive series of events that encourage emerging game developers and studios to gain support for their current games and future projects.

Yes, the Investment Meet and industry networking events are only available for people attending SXSW Sydney 2023. Successful applicants will be provided with their custom schedule closer to the event.

We suggest that you come prepared and bring a playable demo or gameplay trailer if you want to pitch your game or studio.

No more than three people can attend a session at a time, they all must represent the same game or studio relevant to the session. Each attendee must be a Platinum or Games Badge holder.

Applicants 

Application Opens: Thursday 22  June 2023, 9:00AM (AEST) 

Application Info Webinar: Thursday 27 July 2023, 2:00PM – 2:30PM (AEST) 

Application Closes: Thursday 3 August 2023, 11:59PM (AEST) 

Applicants Notified: Monday 4 –21 September 2023 [on a rolling basis] 

Participants 

Pitch Preparation Webinar: Thursday 28 September, 2:00PM – 2:30PM (AEST) 

Final Pitch Deck Submission: Thursday 5 October 2023, 5:00PM (AEDT)  

SXSW Sydney Conference: 15-22 October 2023  

Applicants may be an early-stage startup company or a team of founders of an impactful, innovative business product/innovation/solution in the SXSW Sydney Pitch Entry Categories. ‘Pitchers’ are those selected to present their pitch at the SXSW Sydney Pitch competition and must be available to present at the Pitch Round and the Showcase Final in person. Individuals and solo founders are also eligible to apply. One entry per applicant. 

SXSW Sydney Pitch encourages underrepresented founders and diverse teams to apply and to put their best pitchers forward. ‘Pitchers’ do not have to be founders.   

If you have any accessibility or additional requirements to participate in SXSW Sydney Pitch, please advise the SXSW Sydney Pitch team at pitch@sxswsydney.com or in your application. 

Participation in SXSW Sydney Pitch is also subject to our standard terms and conditions of entry and the eligibility requirements below.  

To apply to SXSW Sydney Pitch, applicants must fit into one or more of the following categories:  

We’re looking for creative innovations, products, technologies and solutions in:

Sustainability, Circular Economy & Urban Innovation: Showcase startups focused on sustainable solutions, renewable energy, waste management, carbon footprint reduction, civic services, public works, smart city design and other innovative clean technologies to address environmental challenges. These innovations may find applications in urban home design and products, disaster detection, real estate development, product delivery, infrastructure, utilities, public works, security, population data, government and civic services, and more. 

Generative AI and Robotics innovation: Spotlight on startups leveraging AI/ generative AI and automation technologies to enhance human creativity, learning and productivity, optimise decision-making, develop intelligent systems, collaboration tool, building infrastructure for new technologies in any industry, new learning and research platforms, Robotics with a purpose, virtual people, life extension, artificial immortality. Advanced humanoid robotics, drones, quantum computing, dark matter, and other deep tech solutions or technologies. 

Healthcare, Biotech, Future of Medicine, Augmenting Humans: Highlight startups revolutionising human-centric healthcare delivery, medical diagnostics, nanotechnology, personalised medicine, digital therapeutics, nutrition, ageing, fertility, brain computer interface applications for improving mental wellbeing, degenerative brain disorders, or speech,  longevity technology, psychedelics and cannabis medicine, health monitoring wearables, AI-powered medical devices, exoskeletons, and other technologies improving patient outcomes and transforming healthcare. 

Space Habitation, Travel & Transport: Who’s leading the world in space startups? We’re looking for space innovations that can apply terrestrially, solutions around housing, construction, new sustainable materials that may also be used, technologies that create and advance smart cities, transportation, or space exploration by providing services and products for localised environments, autonomous vehicles, ridesharing, large scale project management, human habitat design, alternate self-sufficient housing, transportation, logistics.   

Law & Order in Cyberspace, Security & Fintech: Featured startups disrupting the legal and financial sector with innovative financial technologies, digital banking solutions, decentralised finance (DeFi), blockchain applications, cryptocurrency platforms, smart contracts, regtech, and other advancements shaping the future of finance and transactions. What cyberspace measures should we be taking? Protection from cybercriminals, protecting our privacy, safe surveillance.

Game On, Let’s play: Groundbreaking ideas and new technologies in the entertainment, media and gaming world spanning gaming, music, film, television, video, arts, fashion, news, publishing, streaming, and digital storytelling, XR, VR, AR, MOBAs, mobile gaming, esports, and more. Startups in this category strive to immerse consumers with multisensory integration or “invisible tech”, high fashion wearables, web 3.0 retail. Looking for the leading technologies in the future of immersive consumer experiences and people connecting/comms industries, social activities and arts:  dating, networking, content creation, NFTs/blockchain, social media, messaging, extended reality, holographics and mass media.
 

• The applicant startup must have been activated no earlier than October 15, 2019 
• Each applicant may only enter one (1) product/ innovation/ solution to SXSW Sydney Pitch  
• Founders of any company applying must retain a portion of ownership in their company 
• The applicant company/ team must not have raised more than five (5) million dollars in funding from combined funding sources at the date of entry into SXSW Sydney Pitch 2023 
• The applicant company/ product/ innovation/ solution must fall into one of the SXSW Sydney Pitch categories  
• Founder (if pitching) or nominated Pitcher must be available in person to pitch in their Pitch Round and the Showcase Final at SXSW Sydney 2023, which will be held from 15-22 October 2023. It is the responsibility of the Pitcher/ Founder to arrange for and cover any costs associated to their appearance at SXSW Sydney 2023).

A non-refundable AUD$55.00 inclusive of GST entry fee is required from all applicants who would like to be considered for participation in SXSW Sydney Pitch.  

Each applicant can only submit only one (1) entry at SXSW Sydney Pitch. An applicant may nominate one Pitcher to pitch in at SXSW Sydney Pitch, unless there is a requirement for two Pitchers for a live demo. Please advise SXSW Sydney Pitch team if you have this requirement in your application. 

We strongly encourage you to submit or include a video or demo video in your entry that could further illuminate your submission for the selection team. Videos or demos can be no longer than 90 seconds. 

All applicants will receive an email confirming they have been selected to participate in SXSW Sydney Pitch, with the date and time slot of their Pitch Round. Successful applicants must also ensure their nominated Pitcher is available in person to pitch for both the Pitch Round (Wednesday 18 October 2023) and for the Showcase Final (Thursday 19 October 2023).  

All finalists for the Showcase Final will be announced at the end of the Pitch Rounds on Wednesday 18 October 2023, and this will be confirmed in an email to successful finalists.  

We value every potential participant no matter where you are along your journey. There are plenty of opportunities to attend SXSW Sydney 2023. If you aren’t selected this round, we encourage you to attend SXSW Sydney 2023. All entrants will receive a special coupon to register to attend SXSW Sydney 2023 at the early bird rate. We ask that you not register if you are not sure that you will be attending the event as your registration cannot be refunded.  

Congratulations! All our applicants will be notified by email if selected to pitch for SXSW Sydney Pitch. There are 3-4  positions in each of the 6 categories for the Pitching Rounds. Winners of each Pitch Round will automatically qualify for the Showcase Final. There are six (6) Finalist slots selected for the Showcase Final on Thursday 19 October 2023. 

Successful applicants will need to: 

• Nominate their designated “Pitcher” who must have their Pitch ready to pitch in person for the Pitch Rounds and Showcase Final at their allotted time  
• Ensure their Pitcher (and support team) will be available to attend a Pitch Preparation Webinar on 28 September 2023 (Note there can be no more than one Pitcher per pitch)    
• Submit their final Pitch Deck by 5 October 2023 at 11:59PM AEDT via the SXSW Sydney Pitch application portal.  
• Ensure their Pitcher is ready to make the Pitch in person for the Pitch Rounds and Showcase Final at their allotted time and prepare their Pitcher for any questions which may be asked live on stage. 

Successful applicant Pitchers will be allocated a time slot to pitch in their Pitching Round for their category round in front of a small panel of industry experts in that category.  

Winners of each Pitch Round are automatically entered into the Showcase Final, and the winning Pitcher from each Pitch Round will present a one (1) minute version of their pitch again before a panel of industry expert judges and a live audience at the SXSW Sydney Pitch 2023 Showcase Final.   

All Finalists will be allocated a time slot to pitch at the SXSW Sydney Pitch 2023 Showcase Final.  

There will be one overall “Best in Show” winner of the SXSW Sydney Pitch 2023 which will be announced at the end of the Showcase Final. 

Yes, selected applicants will receive two (2) complimentary registrations for SXSW Sydney 2023.  At least one of these complimentary registrations must be assigned to the Pitcher presenting at the event. 

If your SXSW Sydney Pitch entry is not accepted, you will receive a code allowing you to register to attend SXSW Sydney 2023 at the lowest rate. Please do not register if you are not sure that you will be attending the event as your registration cannot be refunded. 

“SXSW Sydney Pitch Best in Show” Prize includes:   

• SXSW Sydney Pitch “ Best In Show’ Winner Package consists of  x two (2) Platinum Badges for SXSW Austin 2024 and x two (2) economy return airfares, to Austin, Texas (terms and conditions apply); a special slot to present a one (1) minute speed pitch during the SXSW Pitch Winner Ceremony on Sunday night in Austin Texas [to be called the – SXSW Sydney Pitch “Best in Show” winner]; a suite of SXSW Sydney Pitch sponsor gifts, and a tailored mentorship package for the Best in Show winner;  
• Finalists will also receive additional prizes to be announced as the event date approaches.
   

The SXSW Sydney Pitch Advisory Board made up of key industry leaders, experts and investors together with SXSW Sydney team screen each application to make sure all key criteria are met and are here to ensure that as many voices as possible have an opportunity to become Pitchers. The SXSW Sydney Pitch Advisory Board and SXSW Sydney team will decide who will move to the Pitch Round. 

Winners of the Pitching Rounds and the Showcase Final winner are decided by industry expert judges, based on key judging criteria in their categories.

The evaluation of each application is based on many factors, but the judges will look at the following six (6) key criteria:  

• Innovation/Originality: Uniqueness of the core concept/innovation/business – is it truly something different/out of the box? 

• Viability: Capacity to sustain in market, actualization and profitability /business model 
• Marketability: Market traction with regards to sales, adoption by users, existing marketing exposure or brand awareness 
• Potential for growth: Growth strategy, go to market strategy and potential to scale 
• Capacity for Impact: How does the product/service impact or improves the world? 
• Team / People: Who are the team and their capacity to make the company a success, company dynamics, values, mission & culture 

These key criteria will also be considered by the Pitch Round judges and the Showcase Final judges. 

If accepted, each pitcher will have up to 3 minutes to present their idea, with an additional 3 minutes of Q&A with a panel of industry expert judges. These times will be strictly adhered to. 

Each applicant can only have one (1) Pitcher presenting to the judges, unless there are extenuating circumstances. Please advise the SXSW Sydney Pitch team of your requirements if you require more than one person on stage.  

Successful applicants should focus on showcasing their startup and its product/innovation/business and not mention details that could be construed as soliciting offers of investment from the judges or audience in their presentations and presentation materials. 

For example, you can say what stage you are at and are looking to fundraise to support the next stage of growth of the startup, but should not include detailed financial projections, offer of shares and terms of offering. Please reserve all conversations about fundraising to private one-on-one meetings with known accredited investors. By participating in SXSW Sydney Pitch, you agree that SXSW Sydney does not give investment or legal advice and that you are responsible for ensuring your compliance with applicable securities laws in your country and Australia.  

For further information about fundraising requirements and laws in Australia consult your legal representative or contact ASIC (asic.gov.au) 

The applicant is solely responsible for protecting any intellectual property rights (patents, trademarks, copyright, trade secrets, etc.) in their application. If you think you have intellectual property rights or you might want to patent your idea someday or your feel confidential information may be compromised, it is strongly recommended that you consult a lawyer before disclosing this information in your application.  

By submitting an application, you acknowledge that applying for SXSW Sydney Pitch could result in disclosure of your intellectual property if such information is included in your application.  

SXSW Sydney is not in a position to protect or advise you on your intellectual property rights and does not take any responsibility for doing so. Additionally, SXSW Sydney does not require non-disclosure agreements or other confidentiality obligations from anyone involved in the SXSW Sydney Pitch process.  

Unfortunately, no refunds are available for submitted applications.  

If you register to attend before being notified by SXSW Sydney of your status as an applicant to SXSW Sydney Pitch, you will not be eligible for a refund of that ticket, however you can transfer to another person if your application is subsequently successful. Please contact pitch@sxswsydney.com for further information. 

Yes, we do, please see below:

“Startup” means an early-stage company or business that has launched or is about to launch a new product/innovation/platform in its early stages of operation, and/or is seeking to expand, raise or raising its first or second round of investment; 

“Team” means a team of two (2) or more founders of a company, business, or owners of an innovation, invention or product; 

“Founder” means the person or persons who incepted the Startup/new product/innovation/business/company and are legally responsible for its development and growth; 

“Company” means a legally incorporated entity owned by the majority of the founding team;   

“Best in Show” means the overall winner of SXSW Sydney 2023; 

“Pitcher” means the person or persons on stage presenting the details of the “Pitch” to the team of judges and industry experts; 

“Pitch” means a presentation (whether aided by audio visual materials or live demo or not) of a new product/innovation/business/company, which showcases key elements to attract customers, investors, advocates and advisors to help grow the venture; 

“Pitch Round” means a competition with 3 entrants in an eligible category;  

“Pitch Deck” means a visual presentation of no more than 10-15 slides of the Startup/ new product/innovation/business/company aiding a Pitcher to present the Pitch to a  

live audience;  

“Showcase Final” means the final Pitch in the SXSW Sydney Pitch competition for the SXSW Sydney Pitch Prize; 

“SXSW Sydney Pitch Prize” means the suite of prizes made available to the winner and finalists of the SXSW Sydney Pitch Competition;    

“SXSW Sydney Pitch Competition” means a competition whereby eligible Pitchers, make a Pitch in front of a panel of industry expert judges, who decide winners of the “SXSW Sydney Pitch Prize”; 

“SXSW Sydney Best in Show Winner Package” includes: 

(I) two (2) Platinum Badges for SXSW Austin 2024 and two (2) economy return airfares, to Austin, Texas, excludes accommodation, transfers, travel insurance, spending money & miscellaneous costs) 

(ii) a special slot to present a one (1) minute speed pitch during the SXSW Pitch Winner Ceremony on Sunday night in Austin Texas [to be called the – SXSW Sydney Pitch “Best in Show” winner]; 

(iii)  suite of SXSW Sydney Pitch sponsor gifts; and  

(iv)  a tailored mentorship package for the Best in Show winner

Applications to volunteer with SXSW Sydney 2023 are now open and close on October 5th! All candidates will need to submit an official application form through I Need Helpers to be considered.

All applicants must satisfy the minimum criteria set by I Need Helpers’ to be considered for involvement with SXSW Sydney 2023. A list of these requirements:

• 18 years of age at the time of event.
• Availability expressed for a minimum of four shifts across the event.
• Comfortable to volunteer for various shift times between 9am-12am.
• Accept I Need Helpers’ Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
• Have a valid email address & mobile phone number.
• Disclose personal contact information.
• Willing to complete an interview with I Need Helpers’ recruitment team.

Volunteers will play a visitor facing role with SXSW Sydney. This will include (not limited to) providing directions and accurate information about the event, assisting with queue management/ ticketing and ensuring the public has a safe and enjoyable time.

Volunteering is a fantastic way to receive a behind-the-scenes insight to a major event and to build new friendships. SXSW Sydney and I Need Helpers are very appreciative of all volunteers who contribute their time to make this event one to remember. A few additional benefits include:

• University, TAFE & RTO approved certified hours for course placement
• Access to the I Need Helpers community (join 20,000+ like-minded volunteers)
• Guidance and supervision by an industry leader in volunteer management, I Need Helpers
• In-depth e-training and on-shift briefings to ensure you feel comfortable within your assigned role(s)
• Involvement with one of the most innovative volunteer programs – allowing you to manage your involvement through an online portal
• All volunteers assigned to a shift greater than 5hrs will receive a meal offering
• Certificate of Appreciation for your involvement with a prestigious event
• Be REWARDED with a coveted SXSW Sydney Badge (you must meet the minimum volunteer hours)

At least 24hours for an Industry Badge, 32+ Hours for Platinum. You will need to commit to a set amount of volunteer hours to earn a SXSW Sydney Badge. Please refer to the application form for more details, or call the friendly INH staff during office hours.

The application process is split into two phases. Phase one Volunteers (applications submitted by 24 August) will be notified of the outcome of their application by early September via email. Phase two applicants (25 August – 15 September) will be notified by the end of September.

The application process is split into two phases. Phase one Volunteers (applications submitted by 24 August) will be notified of the outcome of their application by early September via email. Phase two applicants (25 August – 15 September) will be notified by the end of September.

I Need Helpers are managing the SXSW Sydney 2023 volunteer program and will be making sure you receive the most out of your experience. If you have any questions, please contact the friendly team at volunteers@ineedhelpers.com or on 02 8417 1050 (Mon-Fri 10am – 5pm).

Your primary contact for volunteering is the Staff and Volunteer Manager Jen. You can contact Jen via the details above or by sending her an INH Mail message through your account with I Need Helpers.

Wristbands grant you access to a carefully curated collection of events, launches and parties across games, music or screen industries. Each Festival runs as various points throughout the event week:
– Music Festival – 18-21 October 2023
– Games Festival – 18-22 October 2023
– Screen Festival – 15-21 October 2023

Refer to our explainer for details on each event.

SXSW Sydney Badges allow you access to everything: Conference, mentor sessions, workshops, networking events, festivals, parties, and more with either an industry focus (Tech, Games, Music or Screen) or Platinum for primary access to the full event.

If a badge isn’t quite right for you but you still want to make the most of all things new and emerging in your respective industry, a wristband could be just what you’re after.

A wristband gives you access to either our Games, Music or Screen Festivals.

SXSW Sydney also offers a Tech & Innovation Expo Day Pass.

See our Attend page for further details and pricing.

Wristbands are available for Games, Music and Screen Festivals at SXSW Sydney 2023:

• A Music Wristband gives you access to more than 300 artist performances throughout the 4 day Festival, taking place at 25 iconic venues around Sydney
• A Screen Wristband gives you access to exclusive red carpet premieres and screenings that take place throughout the Screen Festival, as well as the XR Showcase.
• A Games Wristband gives you access to live playthroughs, product launches, performances, hands-on demos and parties at events such as the Games Showcase, Tabletop Festival, XR Showcase plus a Games Awards hosted by Tom Cardy

No, only Badge holders can access the conference, which includes keynotes presentations, panels, workshops and mentor session. If you’re more interested in these sessions, see our Badge pages for information on access between Platinum and Industry badges.

No, the Expo can only be accessed with either a Badge, or a Tech & Innovation Expo Day Pass (day of choice during the event week).

No, the wristband only grants you entry to its respective Festival. If you’d like to experience more of SXSW Sydney 2023, consider a Platinum or Industry Badge.

It is highly unlikely that individual tickets will be available for SXSW Sydney. There are various levels of access available to be able to enjoy everything the event has to offer.

A Platinum Badge grants access to the full event, and industry-focused badges (Tech & Innovation, Games, Music and Screen) to their respective industry events

. Access to a curated collection of events, launches and parties across Games, Music or Screen is available via a wristband, plus one day passes to the Expo.

See the Attend page for more information.