The countdown to SXSW Sydney 2025 is on, and if you're looking to be part of the conversation, now’s the time to submit your session idea. In a recent webinar, SXSW Sydney’s programming team broke down everything you need to know about how to set your session up to have the best chance of being selected. If you didn’t catch the webinar, you can watch here, or read on for an essential guide to making your submission stand out.
What is SXSW Sydney?
SXSW Sydney is a massive gathering of creative minds, industry leaders, and forward-thinkers across tech, music, screen, and culture. From October 13–19, 2025, the city will come alive with groundbreaking discussions, networking events, and immersive activations. At the heart of it all? The conference, where ideas shape the future.
Why Submit a Session?
Session Select is your chance to help shape the SXSW Sydney conference. It’s an opportunity to bring fresh perspectives, challenge conventional thinking, and share expertise with an engaged global audience. The conference team is on the lookout for bold ideas that push industries forward, and that’s where you come in.
Conference Themes for 2025
This year, conference tracks are grouped into key themes, making it easier to position your session:
- - Tech & Innovation: AI, robotics, cybersecurity, health tech, and more.
- - Business & Leadership: Fintech, commerce, startups, and the future of work.
- - Marketing & Media: Advertising, creator economy, media, and journalism.
- - Future & Sustainability: Climate tech, energy, food innovation, and smart cities.
- - Culture & Lifestyle: Sports, fashion, beauty, and travel.
- - Creative Industries: Music, screen, and games.
Session Formats
SXSW Sydney offers a variety of formats to ensure dynamic discussions:
- - Panels: Up to four speakers, including a moderator, for a deep dive into a topic.
- - Talks & Presentations: Solo or duo-led sessions, including short talks and in-conversations.
- - Workshops: Hands-on sessions with interactive learning components.
- - Meetups: Facilitated networking sessions around key industry themes.
- - Live Podcasts: Recorded conversations in front of a live audience.
What Makes a Strong Submission?
The best submissions stand out by being:
- - Forward-thinking: What’s next? How is your session addressing emerging trends and future challenges?
- - Well-structured: Clear, concise, and engaging—both in the title and session description.
- - Audience-focused: Who will benefit from this session, and what will they take away?
- - Diverse: Featuring a mix of perspectives, backgrounds, and industries.
Tips for a Winning Proposal
- - Choose the right track: Pick the category that best aligns with your topic.
- - Craft a compelling title: Make it intriguing and to the point.
- - Write a strong description: Explain why your session matters and what attendees will gain.
- - Secure strong speakers: Ensure your speakers are knowledgeable, dynamic, and confirmed.
- - Avoid duplication: Research past sessions to ensure your idea is fresh.
The Selection Process
Submissions are reviewed through a combination of:
- Public Voting (March 17–31, 2025): The SXSW Sydney community weighs in.
- Industry Evaluators & Advisors: Experts provide insights on session relevance.
- SXSW Sydney Programming Team: The final selection is curated for balance and impact.
Key Dates to Remember
- - Submissions Open: Now until March 23, 2025
- - Public Voting: March 17–31, 2025
- - Final Selections Announced: June 2025
Ready to Submit?
If you have a groundbreaking idea, now’s the time to bring it to the SXSW Sydney stage. Head to the Session Select portal to start your submission, and be sure to download the programming guidelines to set yourself up for success.
See you in October at SXSW Sydney 2025!
