If you work in construction, design, or clean energy, this is not just another industry event. The Sydney Build Expo, held on April 29 and 30 at the ICC Sydney, is Australia’s largest construction and design show. It brings together over 28,000 professionals, 700 exhibitors, and more than 750 speakers across 16 stages.
This is where the future of Australia’s built environment is debated, challenged, and, importantly, shaped.
What makes Sydney Build Expo stand out?
Most expos promise networking and insights. Sydney Build delivers both, but at scale and with purpose. The event covers a wide range of sectors, including sustainability, digital construction, architecture, housing, and infrastructure.
Attendees can expect:
- 16 conference stages covering critical industry themes
- CPD-accredited workshops and training sessions
- 700+ exhibitors showcasing new technologies and materials
- Dedicated hubs for government, architecture, and innovation
- Major networking opportunities, including diversity and inclusion events
This is not just a showcase. It is a working forum for industry transformation.
Why sustainability is front and centre
If there is one theme cutting across nearly every stage, it is sustainability. The construction sector is under increasing pressure to reduce emissions, rethink materials, and design for long-term resilience. Sydney Build reflects this shift through entire stages dedicated to sustainability and climate response.
Key discussions include:
- Adaptive reuse and reducing embodied carbon
- Circular construction and material innovation
- Climate resilience in urban development
- The role of construction in achieving a sustainable planet
For anyone in renewables or electrification, this is where the conversation intersects with real-world delivery.
Standout speakers shaping the conversation
With over 750 speakers, choosing highlights is no easy task. However, a few stand out for their relevance to sustainability, clean energy, and the future of construction.
Marcus Dawe, CEO – MCi Carbon
- Date: 30 April
- Time: 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM
- Panel: The Biggest Challenges & Solutions in Embodied Carbon in Construction
Marcus Dawe is at the forefront of carbon utilisation technology. His work focuses on turning industrial emissions into valuable materials, which could reshape how construction manages carbon.
Adrian Taylor, Regenerative Lead – BVN Architecture
- Date: 29 April
- Time: 10:00 AM – 10:50 AM, 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM
- Panel: Can Architects Lead the Way in Sustainability?, Sustainable Material Selection
Adrian Taylor brings a regenerative design lens to architecture. His work goes beyond sustainability, aiming to create buildings that actively improve environmental outcomes.
James Stevens, Principal – Sustainable Infrastructure, Jacobs
- Date: 29 April
- Time: 11:00 AM – 11:50 AM
- Panel: What is the Construction Industry’s Role in Shaping a Sustainable Planet?
James Stevens focuses on large-scale infrastructure and sustainability strategy. His perspective connects policy, engineering, and climate outcomes, making him highly relevant for Australia’s transition.
Maddie Acutt, Sustainability Consultant – Arup
- Date: 29 April
- Time: 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM
- Panel: Setting the Foundations for Regenerative Precints and the Power of Early Engagement
Maddie Acutt, Sustainability Consultant at Arup, represents the practical side of decarbonisation. Working across major projects, her focus is on embedding sustainability into real-world construction outcomes, not just strategy.
These speakers reflect a broader shift. Sustainability is no longer a niche topic. It is now core to how projects are funded, designed, and delivered.
More than just talks: a platform for real industry change
What sets Sydney Build apart is its ability to connect ideas with action. The event attracts senior decision-makers, including CEOs, directors, engineers, and government representatives.
This means discussions do not just stay theoretical. They influence:
- Project pipelines
- Procurement decisions
- Technology adoption
- Policy direction
It is also a rare chance to see how different parts of the industry interact. Developers, engineers, architects, and energy specialists all converge in one place.
The role of technology and digital construction
Another major theme is digital transformation.
From AI-driven design to digital engineering, the construction industry is rapidly evolving. Dedicated stages explore how technology is improving efficiency, reducing waste, and enabling smarter buildings.
Key areas include:
- AI and data in construction planning
- Digital twins and modelling
- Automation and prefabrication
- Smart infrastructure systems
These technologies are not just improving productivity. They are also enabling better energy outcomes and more sustainable developments.
Why this matters for Australia’s energy transition
Construction and energy are now deeply linked.
Every new building, precinct, or infrastructure project is an opportunity to:
- Electrify energy use
- Integrate solar and storage
- Improve efficiency
- Reduce lifetime emissions
Events like Sydney Build highlight how these opportunities are being realised in practice.
The shift is clear. The built environment is no longer just about structures. It is about systems, energy flows, and long-term sustainability.
Who should attend?
Sydney Build is designed for anyone involved in shaping the built environment.
This includes:
- Builders and contractors
- Architects and designers
- Engineers and consultants
- Energy professionals
- Government and policy leaders
If your work touches construction or sustainability, there is value here.
More than an expo
Sydney Build Expo is not just another industry gathering. It is a snapshot of where Australia is heading. The scale alone is impressive. However, the real value lies in the conversations happening across its stages. From carbon reduction to digital innovation, the themes are clear. The construction industry is evolving rapidly, and sustainability is no longer optional.
For those in clean energy, this is a critical touchpoint. It is where your industry connects with one of the biggest drivers of emissions and one of the biggest opportunities for change.
If Australia is serious about its net-zero goals, events like this are part of the solution.
Sydney Build
29 – 30 April 2026
ICC Sydney
