Social & Networking Events

Join us for the IFA Congress 2026 in Melbourne and experience the excitement of the 1st Tennis IFA Tournament. This exclusive fast moving, social and engaging event offers a half-day tennis tournament at the National Tennis Centre, the iconic home of the Australian Open. The afternoon will conclude with a social hour at St Andrews Brewery a few paces away. St Andrews Beach Brewery brings the flavours and coastal flair of the Mornington Peninsula to one of Victoria’s most popular sporting precincts! The event is open to both participants and accompanying persons, providing an exceptional opportunity to network. Don't miss out — reserve your spot by 31 July 2026 through the registration form (kindly note that no spots can be guaranteed after that date)!

Limited spots available; first-come, first-served.
Price per person: AUD $195, incl. 10% Australian tax (GST). 
Bus transportation and refreshments included. 
Tennis racquets and balls included.

Story of Melbourne Walking Tour
Explore the history and charm of Melbourne on this insightful guided walking tour, offering fascinating story and a deeper understanding of the city's origins, culture, and iconic landmarks.
Melbourne Botanical Gardens, Heritage Walk, National Gallery of Victoria, Federation Square
Head to the world-renowned Royal Botanic Gardens. Then head across to our central National Gallery Victoria and Federation Square. This provides insight into Melbourne’s history – gardens, heritage walk and Australian National Gallery.
MCG Sports Museum
Experience the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) - the heart of Australian sport. Includes - Tour the MCG & Sports Museum – the history and role in Australian sporting culture.
Melbourne River Cruise
Enjoy a relaxing 1-hour cruise along the Yarra River, offering stunning views of Melbourne’s landmarks. This tour provides a unique perspective of the city, perfect for unwinding and appreciating Melbourne from the waterfront.

Included in the registration fee. Limited spots available; first-come, first-served. The choice of tour cannot be changed after the registration.

We are pleased to invite you to the Opening Ceremony of the IFA Congress 2026 in Melbourne, a prestigious event that will kick off an unforgettable week of discussions, networking, and collaboration. More details on the programme of the Opening Ceremony will follow soon.

Included in the registration fee.

This gathering offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow delegates, exchange ideas, and enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere before the scientific sessions begin. The Welcome Reception will take place at the Congress Exhibition Area located on the ground floor of the Congress venue (MCEC). Join us for an evening of networking, refreshments, and the chance to meet industry leaders and peers from around the world.

Included in the registration fee.

The Melbourne Museum, located in Carlton Gardens, showcases Australia’s natural and cultural history through interactive galleries, including Indigenous heritage, science, and wildlife. It features the Science & Life Gallery, including Triceratops and Treetops, offering an immersive educational experience for all ages.

Included in the registration fee. Transportation from/to the Congress venue (MCEC) will be provided.

Melbourne Recital Centre, in the Southbank Arts Precinct, is a world-class venue for live music. Opened in 2009, it features the 1,000-seat Elisabeth Murdoch Hall and the intimate Salon, renowned for exceptional acoustics and striking architecture, hosting over 500 concerts annually across diverse genres.

Included in the registration fee. Transportation from/to the Congress venue (MCEC) will be provided.

The Young IFA Network (YIN) Party will be held at Melbourne’s award-winning Showtime by the Yarra River. This stunning waterfront venue at South Wharf, blends historic industrial charm with modern luxury and glamour, featuring original hardwood floors, huge ceilings, a spectacular chandelier bar, and city skyline views. Expect an energetic night filled with music, dancing, and networking with young professionals from around the world. Have dinner with your friends and colleagues in the city centre after the recital at Melbourne Recital Centre, and then join the Party at 21.30 h.

Included in the registration fee. Showtime is just a minute’s stroll from the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

At 1 Hotel, dining experiences are crafted to nourish the body, mind, and soul. Chef de Cuisine Josh Bosen works with the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from local Victorian farmers, producers, and fishers. Inspired by his early days in Sydney and his fine-dining career in Australia’s top hatted kitchens, Chef Josh’s approach is intuitive and deeply connected to place. Each plate is an homage to the land, honouring Melbourne’s dynamic food culture while offering a truly refined experience. 
1 Hotel Melbourne is located on the Yarra River, directly opposite the Congress venue (MCEC).  The Congress dinner will take the form of an exclusive dinner and is open to both participants and accompanying persons, offering an exceptional opportunity for networking in a unique setting. 

Separate registration is required, and places are limited — don’t miss out and reserve your spot.