The Australian Society for Parasitology Inc. (the Society) and the Australian Bid Committee, are delighted to be shortlisted to host the International Congress on Parasitology (ICOPA XVI) in 2026 in Sydney, Australia. We would be proud to host ICOPA XVI, providing an excellent opportunity to showcase Australia’s globally important research, to forge new international connections and strengthen existing collaborations with our global peers.

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Why Sydney?

1. Sydney is a dream destination to tick off the bucket list. Come and experience our unique wildlife first-hand, learn about the oldest continuous culture on Earth with an Aboriginal guide, discover our famous beaches or climb the iconic Harbour Bridge.

2. Our high-quality scientific congress program that will cover a range if topics of interest to delegates from all areas of Parasitology, exploring the impacts of change to the Tropics, Sub-Tropics, Temperate Zones and Poles. Suggested congress streams include Crisis & Calamity, Wildlife, Vectors, Framing the Future, Pillars of Parasitology, Education & Knowledge, Water, Food & Family.

3. Australia is committed to supporting the Federation’s important ICOPA outreach and education goals, through the delivery of public presentations and hands-on science activities about parasites for students. To support developing nations, we will provide a travel grants program and access to virtual keynote sessions for delegates who cannot attend in person.

4. There will be meaningful networking opportunities during the congress, including a Gala Dinner, PhD students social evening and technical tours at local research centres like, Taronga Zoo’s Conservation Science Labs.

5. For those wanting to stay on for a long-awaited holiday, Australia's vast landscapes, gourmet food, Aboriginal cultural experiences and epic adventures will be sure to please!

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We look forward to your support for our bid.