The Gold Coast will become an international showcase for drones, robotics and autonomous technology when it hosts Global Drone 2026 this November.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate today announced the city had secured Global Drone 2026, a three-day event bringing together industry leaders in drones and robotics.
Global Drone 2026 will feature an international exhibition, an industry congress, keynote speakers and more than 120 live demonstrations of the latest autonomous technologies across air, land and sea.
Mayor Tate said the event would provide an important platform for the Gold Coast to showcase its growing technology and innovation capabilities while opening doors to new investment, trade and business opportunities.
‘Global Drone is exactly the kind of event that can help put the Gold Coast on the world stage for the technologies that will shape our economy in the years ahead,’ Mayor Tate said.
‘Drones, robotics, autonomous systems, advanced manufacturing, space and defence are areas of significant opportunity for the Gold Coast, building on the strengths we already have across our economy.
‘This is not just about showcasing technology. It is also about inspiring young people to see themselves in the industries that will help drive our city’s next wave of economic growth.
‘With 15,000 people expected to attend, Global Drone will deliver a significant boost to our economy while demonstrating the Gold Coast is a city that says yes to innovation, investment and new ideas.’
Global Drone 2026 will feature more than 200 commercial exhibitors and industry streams focused on advanced air mobility, agribusiness, entertainment and sport, health and disaster response, defence, mining and construction, asset inspection, future investment and future careers.
Supported by the City of Gold Coast through Invest Gold Coast, Global Drone 2026 will help launch the Gold Coast as a global destination for robotics, autonomous systems and advanced technology.
Global Drone chief executive Leanne St George said the Gold Coast was uniquely positioned to host an international event focused on autonomous innovation.
‘Our vision is to create an event that delivers a lasting legacy for the Gold Coast,’ Ms St George said.
‘The Gold Coast has the right combination of industry, research, investment, infrastructure and lifestyle to become a leading hub for autonomous innovation.
‘Global Drone is designed to bring the world to the Gold Coast and give Australian businesses, researchers, students and investors access to the people and technologies shaping this rapidly evolving industry.’
The event is forecast to generate more than $19 million in trade and investment activity in the 12 months following the event, and is expected to reach a global audience of more than 15 million through broadcast and digital media.
Global Drone 2026 will be held at Cbus Super Stadium from 11 to 13 November. Tickets are on sale now at www.globaldroneshow.com.