SXSW Sydney 2023 is counting down to its inaugural event with even more brand partners on board to give attendees the opportunity to connect and collaborate through activations, conferences, concerts and more, in the largest event of its kind in the Asia Pacific region.
Attendees are invited to experience the future of Music, Games, Screen, Technology and Ideas – with brand partners offering one-of-a-kind experiences for badge, wristband and expo pass holders, from Flex with HP where HP and Intel have partnered to showcase technologies and ideas that are changing the way we live, work and play to TikTok’s House of Music Discovery at Pleasure’s Playhouse, where they’re bringing the magic of music discovery to life.
Tumbalong Park in the heart of Sydney’s Darling Harbour will be transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity featuring free events and captivating and immersive experiences, including the opportunity to climb the Suntory –196 three-story vending machine, take a turn through the CommBank House maze to surface tech innovations or witness the fusion of innovation and creativity at Porsche House, plus much more.
Sponsor and brand activity highlights are noted below, more details can be found at sxswsydney.com.
Geoff Jones, SXSW Sydney Chair, said: “We’re thrilled at the level of diverse, interesting and innovative brands involved in our first SXSW Sydney event. Our dedicated brand partners will play a key role in cultivating the unexpected discoveries attendees will come to know and love this coming week.”
Key Information
SXSW Sydney 2023 Super Sponsors
CommBank: CommBank is the biggest corporate user of AI, and attendees will have the chance to explore how they are using the technology to help protect from scams, combat financial abuse, save money, create a more seamless customer experience and so much more.
QANTAS: Qantas is bringing ‘The Wellbeing Zone’ to SXSW Sydney – a unique space inspired by the world-leading research into wellbeing throughout the entire customer journey when travelling, and the designs that will be featured on the airline’s Project Sunrise flights’.
SXSW Sydney 2023 Major Sponsors:
HP in partnership with Intel are the official Major Sponsor of the Tech & Innovation Expo at Sydney’s inaugural SXSW.
HP is a global technology leader and creator of solutions that enable people to bring their ideas to life and connect to the things that matter most. Flex with HP at SXSW Sydney, where HP and Intel have partnered together to showcase the best technologies and ideas that are changing the way we live, work and play.
“As a brand that prides itself on creating technology for the future, we’re thrilled to partner with SXSW to celebrate the convergence of innovation and creativity, and bring the best of technology that is designed to flex around you and how you live your life today.” — Bradley Pulford, Managing Director at HP Australia and New Zealand
Young Henrys is the Major Sponsor of the SXSW Sydney 2023 Music Festival
Sydney’s local brewers will be slinging their famous selection of delicious beverages available throughout the precinct, as well as their own pop-up bar at Tumbalong Park. They will also launch the music programming at the Tumbalong Park Outdoor Stage with their iconic Rock & Roll Circus event, as the festival’s Official Music Festival Major Sponsor.
Telstra is the Major Sponsor of the SXSW Sydney 2023 Screen Festival
Telstra have shown an unwavering commitment to connecting Aussies with each other and the world. By bridging the gap between imagination and execution, Telstra emerges as the perfect partner for propelling the creative screen arts to new heights.
SXSW Sydney 2023 Brand Activations:
CommBank: CommBank’s interactive experience in Tumbalong park, is a journey through tech innovation as the building blocks of the world we live in today. The CommBank experience is a hub for meeting up with friends, colleagues and fellow SXSW-goers to engage in meaningful conversations and exchange ideas about how we can utilise technology to make a positive impact, and maybe score some free food and drinks along the way.
Porsche House: Embark on a captivating journey into the realm of Porsche House, where the fusion of innovation and creativity takes centre stage, with a curated ensemble of exceptional talents including a masterful fine line tattoo artist, a visionary photographer, and an awe-inspiring artist.
Suntory –196: Minus 196 is hosting an activation of epic proportions with a three-story Vending Machine at Tumbalong Park during SXSW. The machine will transport Aussies into the innovative and intensely Japanese world of Minus 196.
Seven Network: Experiencing the moments that grip the nation, game-changing innovation and the next wave of inspiration under one roof? That’s massive. That’s Seven House at SXSW Sydney. Re-wire the way you think about the future of content and connection with a full program of guests, workshops and experiences. Or drop by for a welcoming place to relax.
Primeville presented by Prime Video: Prime Video is creating Primeville at SXSW Sydney, taking over Fratelli Fresh Darling Harbour. In this town, prepare to lose yourself in the world of Prime Video and experience your favourite shows brought to life including Reacher, The Summer I Turned Pretty and Gen V.
WPP HOUSE: Championing the power of creative transformation, WPP House brings together the most influential thinkers and do-ers to tell extraordinary stories that unlock change through creativity. Hosting a combination of keynotes, experiences, panels and fireside chats that can also be viewed from the WPP House Courtyard – WPP House is open to all.
MilkLab: MilkLab are bringing Good Brews to The Goods Line for SXSW Sydney! Head over to The Goods Line from Wednesday – Saturday for a free coffee to fuel your SXSW Sydney adventure. See the partner profile HERE
AWS: Amazon Web Services (AWS) will showcase their approach to innovation across multiple activations and talks, such as the revolutionary, check-out-free shopping experience, Amazon’s Just Walk Out, Gen-AI collaboration with Canva, and the next generation in GameTech.
See the partner profile HERE
Clear Hayes: B2B media and marketing company Clear Hayes are producing two days of conference content taking a deep dive into the cutting edge of marketing and media at their pop-up Clear Hayes House located at Harajuku in Darling Harbour.
See the partner profile HERE
Riot Games : Join us for a day of games, food, and drink as we come together to celebrate the road to League of Legends World Championship 2023! Open to the public, come and explore the rift with broadcasts from Worlds qualifiers screened throughout the day. Friday Oct 20, doors open at 11:30am, Harajuku Gyoza, Darling Harbour.
Too Far Media: Immerse yourself in New York based Too Far Media’s, The Storyworld of Beneath Caaqi’s Wings – Where Art and Technology meet, at The Discovery Stage at the Tech & Innovation Expo and at The TooFar Media PopUp at Sydney Central Mall.
Defender House: Defender House is making its Australian debut alongside SXSW Sydney; offering a unique journey where urban meets nature, immerse yourself in sensory moments as you wander through the space, and discover the latest tech and innovation that underpin the Defender collection.
Snapchat House: Snap Inc. is throwing open the doors to Snapchat House, inviting both SXSW Sydney badge holders and the general public to drop in and enjoy the wonder of technology overlaid on the real world.
The DEPT Garden House: The DEPT Lounge is the perfect spot to unwind, catchup on work, and connect during SXSW Sydney. Enjoy the scenic views of the lovely Chinese Gardens of Friendship, kick back, and enjoy lunch or Happy Hour on the house!
Uber Advertising: Advertising by Uber is bringing back Uber’s “Bar in a Car” at SXSW Sydney, where attendees can enjoy a beverage or two, relax between sessions and learn how brands can use Uber to reach their audience as consumers go anywhere and get anything.
SXSW Sydney 2023 International Houses
USA House: Indulge in visuals, food, wine, cocktails, beer, music, and cultural experiences from the original home of SXSW. However you might want to explore the Unexpected States of America, you can find it at USA House.
Canada House: A creative hub fostering connections and exploring new business opportunities. “Conversation corners” as well as performances from talented Canadian musicians will be the cornerstones of CANADA HOUSE and badge-holders are invited to join these special events.
Aotearoa House: A three-day activation based at Rouge Sydney focused on creations and innovations that share the unique cultures and voices of Aotearoa New Zealand across music, screen, tech and gaming with each day featuring some of the most exciting talent Aotearoa has to offer.
New South Wales House: Over three days, from 17-19 October, NSW House will showcase cutting edge tech and innovative activations and hear from the brightest minds on the most thought- provoking topics, and uncover the best our state has to offer.
SXSW Sydney 2023 Music Festival: Presenting Partners and Brand Activations
The Courtyard Presented by Rolling Stone: Rolling Stone will be activating The Courtyard at SXSW, supported by partners Jim Beam, Twilio Segment and Old El Paso. The Courtyard presented by Rolling Stone will host the ‘Jim Beam Sessions’ featuring exclusive live performances.
The lineup includes the high-strung rock of Adam Newling, to indie upstarts The Terrys, the cinematic psych of Telenova, to the explosive hip hop of First Nations rapper Barkaa, and more. The full lineup can be seen here. There will also be a deep dive into the intersection of technology and creativity through an expert panel discussion, and secret headline slots from major touring artists.
BWS Cool Room: Snowfall at SXSW Sydney? With Lime Cordiale?! It’s happening at music’s coolest stage: The BWS Cool Room. Be there for a live gig experience that takes the walk-in fridge outta the BWS bottle shop and into the Aussie summer. Indie superstars Lime Cordiale will be headlining the Cool Room at SXSW Sydney; the first of three BWS Cool Room parties this summer that will excite every sense you have. It’s going down Thursday, October 19th in Central Park, Sydney.
AMEX x Universal Music House: Welcome The American Express X Universal Music House, A space to listen, feel and engage with the Future of Music. Across three days and nights we are bringing together the smartest minds and loudest voices in music culture. With live performances each night from names such as Caity Baser (UK), Middle Kids, Drax Project, Sarah Kinsley (US) and more, this is an event on the SXSW Sydney calendar not to be missed.
TikTok: TikTok’s House of Music Discovery at Pleasure’s Playhouse on Wednesday 18th October brings the magic of music discovery to life, transcending the digital realm and making it a real-world experience. While over at Soho House, TikTok is Spilling the Tea with 3 TikTok creator led conversations on Monday, Wednesday & Friday.
Billboard’s THE STAGE at SXSW Sydney: Prepare for an unforgettable night as global girl group superstars XG make their way to Australia for an exclusive, one-night-only concert at Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion, Friday October 20, 2023. Known for their fresh hip-hop and R&B inspired musical fusions, remarkable production and sensational choreography, XG promises to set THE STAGE alight at SXSW® SYDNEY with this one-off exclusive performance, supported by Lil Cherry & GOLDBUUDA.
House of Vans: This year Vans Australia will be hosting a House Of Vans Pop Up with a large lineup of the best local and international acts as part of SXSW Sydney.
Doc Martens House: Dr Martens are thrilled to kick off SXSW Sydney at The Chippo Hotel this year after such a strong presence globally. Throughout Dr Martens’ history, the brand has been adopted and subverted by diverse individuals, musicians, subcultures and tribes. They pride themselves by inspiring free thinking individuals who stand out from the crowd in their own unique way. Continuing to push the boundaries with a rich culture and DNA of rebellious self-expression and authenticity, especially in the art and music space, they are excited to be a part of such a significant music event.
Spotify: Spreading across four days, from Oct. 18-21, Spotify House boasts a daytime schedule of panels, workshops and fireside chats, covering-off such topics as music discovery, the next phase of K-Pop, the battle for gender equity and more. At night, the stage will light up with some of the best and brightest talent from across the Asian Pacific region.
Inertia Music & [PIAS] present DAYTONIGHT
Korea Spotlight presented by KOCCA
Laneway Festival SXSW Sydney Party
Untitled & PROXY PRESENT SXSW SYDNEY KICK-OFF
TOUCHDOWN UNDER PRESENTED BY YEG
SXSW Sydney 2023 Conference and Tech and Innovation Partners
UTS: As the Education Partner of SXSW Sydney, UTS are at the heart of the action. From conference hosting duties to main stage presenting, the EV launch at Tumbalong Park with UTS students, and UTS House at CB08.03.Event Space – UTS!
Accenture: Accenture is sponsoring both the Official Music Festival Opening Event and AI and Robotics track as they bring SXSW Sydney attendees and the communities they serve, on a journey of innovation, creativity and inspiration.
Culture Amp: The Culture Amp Lounge will be your escape to relax, recharge and reconnect in a space that is consciously designed, fostering connection and creativity.
Main Sequence/CSIRO: Join CSIRO, and Asia Pacific’s largest dedicated deep tech fund, Main Sequence, to unlock the impact of how we produce, consume and behave to meet the UN’s ambition of delivering more sustainable, productive and resilient food systems.
Kingfisher: Kingfisher are the Climate and Sustainability Track Sponsor at SXSW Sydney. Reinventing the phone ownership experience, by transforming the way people buy, own and trade-in mobile devices, Kingfisher’s device ownership solutions are better for carriers, their customers, and the planet.
QMS: QMS will be hosting the programming that covers the media landscape, the power of the companies who currently control the message, and the players bringing new ideas to the table – including the Paris 2024 Olympic themed panel discussion on Tuesday 17th October.
Powerhouse: Powerhouse will present the SXSW Conference Design Track; a program of keynotes and conversations from the world’s leading designers, developers, artists and creatives about how they build physical, digital and virtual worlds with purposeful intent.
Venture Crowd: Venture Crowd are the presenters of Start-up Pitch, the highly anticipated SXSW Sydney 2023 event, where brilliant minds and creative thinkers worldwide converge. Providing a platform for remarkable individuals to showcase revolutionary ideas and forge valuable connections.
Dell Technology: Dell is joining with Venture Crowd to support the SXSW Sydney Startup Pitch – showing their support for Australia’s emerging and exciting entrepreneurs through their Dell for Startups program.
See the partner profile HERE
Sennheiser: International pro-audio provider Sennheiser are providing technical support for SXSW Sydney’s highly anticipated Podcast Stage, as well as providing private consultations with music festival artists about live and studio sound.
Remote: As the Tech & Innovation Expo Social Impact Zone Sponsor, Remote will showcase their new Global HR Platform makes it simple to hire, manage, and pay people anywhere in the world.
ACCOR: Accor is the Official Accommodation Partner of SXSW 2023 Sydney. This exciting collaboration expresses Accor’s commitment to supporting the arts, innovation, and cultural experiences. SXSW participants can access a special accommodation rate at select Sydney hotels on the SXSW website.
Sonos Frisson: Join GRAMMY-winning producer Eric J Dubowsky and music psychologist Dr Solange Glasser to explore the psychophysiological phenomenon of frisson. Discover how Eric J combined art and science to create Frisson Trigger a groundbreaking track engineered to give listeners goosebumps.
V2 and Nourish: Join Nourish Ingredients and v2food on the Discovery Stage to experience a taste of tomorrow as they demonstrate Australia’s breakthrough science and technologies leading the way to a plant-based future with an exclusive SXSW Sydney burger.
Sixt: Leading vehicle and mobility solution company Sixt are supporting SXSW Sydney by providing a fleet of vehicles to ferry talent and teams around Sydney – look out for the specially branded vehicles at the airport and around Darling Harbour.
Lyre’s: If you feel like socialising at SXSW Sydney, but want to be fresh for the next day’s adventures, Australian founded company Lyre’s replicates the world’s most popular spirits in a non-alcoholic format. Lyres are hosting non-alcoholic “Mocktail” Happy Hours at Cartel.