Australia Sports Tech Conference looks to future of $3 billion industry

More than 700 stakeholders in the fast-growing sports technology industry have gathered in Brisbane today for the 2022 Australia Sport Tech Conference.

The culmination of Australia Sports Technology Week (ASTW), the conference featured leaders from around the world along with industry panels covering key topics in the sports tech industry in Australia, as well as internationally.

With delegates able to attend in-person after two years of virtual events, the largest sports tech event in the southern hemisphere saw conference had an agenda focussing on innovation and the role of technology in the future of sport.

Commencing on Tuesday, the first day of ASTW offered a series of field tours showcasing innovation and technology in Queensland sport.

Wednesday featured the ASTN Masterclass along with Sports Technology Education Program for high school students.

Thursday saw a seminars to inspire the next wave of sports tech founders before the presentation of the Australia and New Zealand Sports Technology (ANZSTA) Awards, while today saw the flagship event of the week, bring parties together for a full day of learning from world class presenters and networking.

With an annual estimated value of more than $3 billion, the sports tech sector represents about 10% of Australia’s sport industry, employing almost 11,000 people.

With Australia a global innovator in sports tech, as well as related sectors such as esports and gaming, its unprecedented decade of hosting major international sporting events, culminating in Brisbane's staging of the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics, suggests that the sector will continue its steep growth trajectory as the way sport is consumed and technology is applied is redefined.

Cam Vale, General Manager of event host the Australian Sports Technology Network (ASTN), said the conference was “back with a bang”, telling News Corp that it highlighted latest in technology and innovation, commenting "we’re talking from fan engagement to all aspects of the business of sport, venue technology, high performance, participation, healthy living, equipment, anything in that space."

The event also saw James Demetriou, ASTN's Chair since its foundation in 2012, step down from the role.

Speaking in July at the launch of the ASTN's Sports Innovation Report 2022, Demetriou advised “Australia is punching above its weight and is now regarded as one of the top five nations globally in sports tech.

“We are building one of the world’s most advanced and integrated sports innovations ecosystems over the next decade leading up to several major events in Australia’s sporting calendar including the 2032 Summer Olympic Games.

“The future looks fit for sports tech businesses if the industry is to follow the trajectory of the past 10 years. Job creation, economic growth, and trade and investment are on track to be among the great legacy achievements of which Australia can be immensely proud.”

Images: Delegates at the 2022 Australia Sport Tech Conference (top), ASTW sponsors (middle) and outgoing ASTN's Chair James Demetriou (below).