Western Australia secures International Congress on Applied Phycology in 2027

Business Events Perth has announced its bid to host the 9th Congress of the International Society for Applied Phycology (ISAP) in 2027 has been successful. Organised by the International Society for Applied Phycology, the event will be held in Perth, marking the first time the congress will take place in Western Australia. ISAP convenes every three years, focusing on the practical applications of phycology, which is the study of algae, encompassing both microalgae and macroalgae. Previously hosted in Australia in Sydney in 2014, this event will bring together leading experts, researchers, and practitioners from around the world to exchange knowledge, insights and innovations in the field. Scheduled for mid-June 2027, the congress is expected to attract 700 industry professionals, injecting an estimated direct delegate expenditure of AU$5.8m (US$3.88m) into Western Australia’s visitor economy. Western Australia’s unique combination of abundant land, access to coastal seawater, and its favourable climate offers good opportunities for further advancement in algal cultivation, making it an ideal destination for ISAP 2027. Hutt Lagoon, an iconic lake in WA’s Coral Coast region, glows pink from the presence of carotenoid-producing algae, attracting thousands of tourists annually as well as the likes of the cosmetics and health industry due to its Vitamin A benefits. The lake also contains the world’s largest microalgae production plant, a series of artificial ponds used to farm Dunaliella salina. WA deputy premier and minister for Tourism of Western Australia, the Hon. Rita Saffioti MLA, said: “Hosting these types of business events is an important part of our overarching tourism strategy as it helps to showcase our State and its offerings, as well as generate valuable delegate spend for our local economy. “Importantly, it gives delegates a time-specific reason to visit our beautiful State, and we’re really excited to welcome attendees from around the world and showcase the diverse opportunities and capabilities that Western Australia has to offer.” Tourism Australia managing director Phillipa Harrison said supporting Western Australia’s successful bid to host the International Society for Applied Phycology conference (ISAP) 2027 via the Business Events Bid Fund Programme presented a huge opportunity for Australian tourism. “Since its inception, our Business Events Bid Fund has been helping to support a thriving visitor economy by building a strong pipeline of future international business events across Australia,” said Harrison.