The RACS Annual Scientific Congress (ASC) 2025 took place last month at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Sydney, marking its 93rd iteration with a refreshed and streamlined program format. For the first time, the event was held over a weekend with a condensed structure—designed to encourage greater cross-collaboration between specialties.

This year’s theme, Innovation, Precision, Excellence, was expertly guided by convener, Professor Henry Woo and scientific co-conveners, Professor Payal Mukherjee and Dr Pecky De Silva. The program delivered in spades, spotlighting cutting-edge research and transformative technologies aimed at advancing patient care.

A resounding success by all measures, the ASC welcomed more than 1750 experts, innovators, and delegates from across the health sector. It once again cemented its status as the College’s flagship event as the largest multidisciplinary English-language surgical meeting in the southern hemisphere. This is a testament to its enduring impact on the medical community across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand.
A standout feature of this year’s ASC was its TEDx-style plenary sessions, which saw speakers leave the podium behind to deliver dynamic, thought-provoking talks that sparked genuine discussion.  The sessions explored themes of innovation, AI, wellness, and clinical trials—covering everything from groundbreaking skin regeneration research to precision treatments for prostate cancer. They also offered a futuristic look at medicine in space.

Among these, the Sunday afternoon plenary stood out as a hallmark moment of the 2025 program.  The session featured US ophthalmologist and viral comedian Dr. Glaucomflecken. His sobering—yet hilarious—take on the fractured US healthcare system broke down what’s wrong, why it matters, and what reform could look like. Next was a lively Q&A-style panel on elective surgery in Australia, moderated by journalist and former ABC Q&A host, Tony Jones. The room buzzed with insights and exchanges between panelists and audience members. No surprise: eager crowds were queuing at the doors to get in.

Beyond the plenary sessions, a program of concurrent sessions showcased the depth and breadth of our specialty sections. Curated by our Section Conveners, these sessions offered something for everyone—allowing delegates to immerse themselves in a program designed for brilliant minds in medicine to converge, share groundbreaking research, and exchange expertise. 

Despite the condensed format, the Congress featured more than 500 lectures and keynote addresses delivered by section visitors, named lecturers, invited speakers and research presenters. It was a hub of intellectual exchange and innovation. With so many outstanding presentations taking place, the support of on-demand technology allows delegates to revisit—or catch up on—presentations they missed available on our website.

This ASC also welcomed the largest cohort of new Fellows to be officially inducted into the College in recent years. Cheered on by family, friends and colleagues 250 new Fellows took to the stage at the Darling Harbour Theatre to mark this momentous occasion and achievement—a tradition that underscores the prestigious nature of our institution. This year’s Syme Oration was delivered by National Rural Health Commissioner, Professor Jenny May AM, who shared a powerful and inspiring address titled Reimagining the Future. Her message encouraged new Fellows to lead with purpose, to “find their own compass,” ensuring that innovation serves the greater good in shaping a more equitable health system where technology benefits all—especially the vulnerable.

The ceremony was followed by a celebratory reception, and for many, the evening continued at the Congress dinner. This was a relaxed and convivial affair with food, drinks, conversation among peers and for the brave-hearted, a spirited boogie on the dance floor.

The Congress buzzed outside the lecture halls with a diverse range of themed breakfasts celebrating Indigenous Health, Women in Surgery, and the Christian Medical Fellowship. Meanwhile section dinners and networking functions created spaces for camaraderie and collaboration, and six masterclasses provided focused areas of interest, enriching the delegate experience.

The trade exhibition hall was another highlight—a space where delegates engaged with industry leaders and sponsors showcasing the latest in surgical technology and innovation. The RACS booth, located at the heart of the exhibition, was abuzz with activity as delegates connected with College staff to chat about CPD, the Library, the Foundation for Surgery, Education, or simply pick up a coveted pair of crazy socks or a goodie-packed RACS bag!

Preparations are underway for the 94th ASC, which will be held from 30 April to 3 May 2026 at the Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre in Western Australia. The ASC will return to Australia’s west coast after more than a decade. Led by an expert team of conveners, RACS looks forward to welcoming attendees, continuing its proud tradition of excellence and innovation in surgical education and practice.

For latest news and updates on the ASC 2026 keep an eye on our website. We look forward to seeing you there!