Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA) Meets Brisbane Innovation
Last month, SACC Queensland had the honour of welcoming a distinguished delegation from the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA) to Brisbane, as part of their participation in the CAETS 2025 conference. Over the course of a packed and productive week, 18 Swedish delegates explored Brisbane’s dynamic ecosystem of future-focused organisations, with SACC QLD proudly supporting and co-organising their visit.
The delegation included members of IVA’s leadership and research community, all eager to engage with forward-thinking companies and institutions that are shaping tomorrow’s solutions, today. Brisbane delivered.
Highlights from the week included visits to CSIRO, where Australia’s national science agency showcased its world-leading research into food sustainability and technology; Actualisation Group, who offered a deep dive into their strategic AI transformation work across sectors; and BlockTe xx, a circular economy pioneer rethinking textile waste as valuable resource, with a world-leading position in mixed fabric recycling.
Delegates also explored ARM Hub, a powerhouse of robotics, AI, and advanced manufacturing, and connected with PSI Quantum, whose work in quantum computing is already influencing global scientific and commercial pathways. Wrapping up, on the last day they visited Endua, an Australian clean energy startup that’s pioneering a new type of hydrogen-powered energy storage system to provide reliable, off-grid power.
As the visit evolved it became clear that today, Brisbane is not just keeping pace with global innovation – it’s helping set it.
The exchange of ideas was energising on both sides. For the IVA delegates, the trip offered rare access to breakthrough technology and policy thinking across sustainability, science, and business. For the Brisbane hosts, it was a valuable opportunity to share ideas, compare strategies, and build new relationships with Sweden’s engineering elite.
“This week highlighted what can happen when two innovation-minded cultures connect,” said Marie McIntyre, SACC QLD representative. “It’s not just about showcasing Australian expertise, it’s about learning from each other. That spirit of intellectual exchange is what made this visit so special.”
The week also strengthened the ties between Sweden and Queensland in meaningful ways—socially and academically. As we look ahead to new collaborations and opportunities for brand Sweden, SACC QLD is very happy to have played a part in this successful international engagement.
Our sincere thanks to IVA for their visit, to CAETS for the wider platform, and to all the organisations that opened their doors and ideas. Not to mention SACC QLD who helped bring it all together. The connections made during this visit are hopefully just the beginning.
SACC Brisbane QLD Chapter
