Host City

17–19 November 2026 | Brisbane, Australia

Welcome to our host city Brisbane, Australia  

The ACG is excited to host Ground Support 2026 in the capital city of Queensland – Brisbane, Australia. 

Brisbane, the vibrant capital of Queensland, welcomes you with its unique blend of cosmopolitan charm, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. Nestled along the Brisbane River and just a stone’s throw from iconic beaches and lush hinterlands, Brisbane offers an ideal setting for both business and leisure. As Australia’s third-largest city, it boasts a dynamic arts and culture scene, world-class dining, and a subtropical climate that ensures a warm and sunny experience year-round.

Whether you’re here for the conference or extending your stay to explore, Brisbane promises unforgettable experiences.

Attractions and Locations of Interest:

  • South Bank Parklands
    Stroll along the picturesque riverside precinct featuring lush gardens, a sandy beach, and a diverse range of restaurants and cafes.

  • Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)
    Dive into Australia’s largest modern art gallery, showcasing contemporary exhibitions from around the world.

  • Brisbane River Cruises
    Enjoy scenic views of the city skyline and iconic landmarks like the Story Bridge from the comfort of a river cruise.

  • Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
    Cuddle a koala, hand-feed kangaroos, and get up close with Australia’s unique wildlife.

  • Mount Coot-tha Lookout
    Take in panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas from this stunning vantage point, just a short drive from the CBD.

  • Queen Street Mall
    Shop till you drop at this bustling pedestrian street, home to a mix of international brands, Australian designers, and boutique stores.

  • Brisbane Botanic Gardens
    Escape to this peaceful haven filled with diverse plant collections and scenic walking paths.

  • Fortitude Valley
    Discover Brisbane’s nightlife and entertainment hub, featuring live music venues, trendy bars, and international cuisine.

  • Moreton Island
    A short ferry ride away, this pristine island offers snorkeling, sandboarding, and dolphin-feeding experiences.

  • Cultural Centre
    Located in South Bank, this hub houses the Queensland Art Gallery, State Library, and Queensland Museum, catering to curious minds.

We look forward to hosting you in Brisbane for a memorable conference experience!

Getting Around in Brisbane: Easy, Convenient, and Connected

Brisbane makes getting around a breeze, offering a variety of public transport options, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and scenic travel experiences. Whether you’re commuting to the conference venue or exploring the city’s attractions, Brisbane’s reliable and efficient transport network ensures you’ll get there with ease.

Public Transport Options:

Visit Translink to plan your journey.

  • Buses
    Brisbane’s bus network is extensive, with frequent services connecting the city, suburbs, and key attractions. The CityGlider and City Loop services are particularly handy, providing free or low-cost travel to major inner-city areas.

  • Trains
    The train network links Brisbane’s central business district (CBD) to surrounding suburbs, the airport, and the Gold Coast. It’s a fast and comfortable option for travelling longer distances.

  • Ferries and CityCat
    Cruise along the Brisbane River on the iconic CityCat ferries. These sleek and scenic boats connect key riverside locations, including South Bank, the CBD, and the University of Queensland. For a more leisurely ride, hop on one of the free cross-river ferries.

  • E-Scooters and Bikes
    Explore Brisbane at your own pace by renting an e-scooter or bike. Dedicated bike paths and scooter-friendly lanes make it a safe and enjoyable way to get around.

  • Walking
    The city’s pedestrian pathways, especially along the river and in the South Bank precinct, provide scenic and convenient routes for exploring on foot.

Tips for Travelers:

  • Use the go card, a prepaid travel card, for seamless access to buses, trains, and ferries. Cards can be purchased and topped up at stations, convenience stores, and online.
  • Plan your journey using the TransLink app or website, which provides real-time updates and trip planners.
  • For visitors staying in the CBD, many attractions are within walking distance or accessible via free services like the CityHopper ferry or City Loop buses.

Getting around Brisbane is not just about getting from point A to B—it’s an opportunity to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning river views!

Photo by Bhavesh Patel on Unsplash

Photo by Brisbane Local Marketing on Unsplash

Arriving from the Airport

Brisbane Airport is well-connected to the city’s central business district (CBD), making your arrival smooth and stress-free. Whether you’re looking for speed, convenience, or budget-friendly options, there’s a transport choice to suit your needs.

Travel Options from Brisbane Airport to the CBD:

  • Airtrain
    The Airtrain is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Brisbane Airport to the CBD. The journey takes just 20 minutes, with frequent services operating every 15–30 minutes. The Airtrain station is located at both the Domestic and International terminals, and tickets can be purchased online or at the station.

  • Airport Shuttle
    Shuttle services provide door-to-door transfers from the airport to hotels and key locations in the CBD. This is an affordable and hassle-free option for those carrying luggage or travelling in groups.

  • Taxi or Rideshare
    Taxis and ride-share services like Uber, Didi, and Ola are readily available at dedicated pick-up zones outside both terminals. A trip to the CBD typically takes 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Car Hire
    Major car rental companies operate at the airport, providing flexibility for those planning to explore Brisbane and its surrounding regions at their own pace.

  • Public Bus Services
    Several public bus routes connect the airport to various parts of Brisbane. While less direct than the Airtrain, buses offer an economical option for budget-conscious travellers.

Tips for a Smooth Arrival:

  • For the fastest connection, opt for the Airtrain, especially during peak hours.
  • Use the Brisbane Airport app for real-time updates on flight arrivals and transport services. The App can be downloaded for free from the iTunes store for iOS devices here and from the Google Play store for Android devices here.
  • If travelling by taxi or rideshare, confirm your driver and destination before departing.

Brisbane’s October Weather: Warm, Sunny, and Perfect for Exploring

October is one of the best times to visit Brisbane, offering delightful spring weather that’s ideal for both outdoor adventures and leisurely sightseeing. With clear skies, mild temperatures, and blooming jacaranda trees adding splashes of purple to the cityscape, Brisbane in October is a feast for the senses.

What to Expect:

  • Temperature: Daytime highs average between 25–27°C (77–81°F), while evenings are pleasantly cooler, around 15–17°C (59–63°F).
  • Rainfall: October typically experiences low to moderate rainfall, with occasional short-lived showers. It’s a great time to enjoy Brisbane’s outdoor attractions.
  • Sunshine: Brisbane boasts plenty of sunshine, with around 9 hours of daylight daily. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat!
  • Humidity: The humidity is comfortable, making outdoor activities enjoyable throughout the day.

What to Pack:

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing like t-shirts, dresses, and shorts.
  • A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
  • Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city and surrounding areas.
  • Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to stay sun-smart.
  • An umbrella or light rain jacket, just in case of a brief spring shower.

With its glorious spring weather, October in Brisbane is perfect for riverside picnics, exploring lush parklands, and enjoying the city’s vibrant outdoor events. Get ready for sunshine-filled days and balmy nights in this beautiful subtropical city!

The ACG acknowledges the Jagera people and the Turrbal people as the Traditional Custodians of Meanjin (Brisbane), the lands on which our conference is located. We pay our respects to Jagera and Turrbal Elders past, present and emerging.