International Delegates
The AIMS National Scientific Meeting (NSM) 2026 welcomes laboratory professionals, researchers, educators and students from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
Held in Perth, Western Australia, NSM 2026 provides an accessible opportunity for international delegates to connect with Australia’s medical laboratory science community, explore emerging developments in laboratory medicine, and build professional networks across the region.
Whether delegates are looking to expand international connections, discover the latest advancements in diagnostics, or gain exposure to leading scientific research, NSM 2026 offers a collaborative environment for learning and professional growth.
📍 Perth, Western Australia
📅 16–19 September 2026
Why Attend NSM 2026?
NSM is one of Australia’s leading scientific meetings for medical laboratory professionals, bringing together delegates from multiple disciplines including Haematology, Microbiology, Clinical Biochemistry, Histopathology, Molecular Diagnostics & Genetics, Immunology, Transfusion Science, Cytology, Quality & Laboratory Management, and Workforce Development.
Delegates can expect:
- International and Australian expert speakers
- Scientific presentations and emerging research
- Networking opportunities with laboratory professionals and industry
- Access to the latest innovations and technologies
- Professional development opportunities
- Venue tours of local laboratories before or after the conference
Visa Information
Delegates are encouraged to review visa requirements early and apply well in advance of travel. Official visa information can be found via the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
Meeting participants, attendees and speakers that are not working, performing or being paid to attend or contribute at the event may be eligible to apply for the following visa options:
- Visitor (subclass 600) Business stream visa – for more information, click here
- Electronic Travel Authority – ETA (subclass 601) – for eligible passport holders and more information, click here
- eVisitor (subclass 651) Business stream visa – for eligible passport holders and more information, click here
It should be noted that eligibility for an eVisitor visa and ETA will be determined by the country of passport that the applicant holds.
It is extremely important that delegates ensure that their applications are complete and fully documented as decisions are made based on the information and documentation provided in the application, against legal requirements set out in Australia’s migration legislation. Neither the provision of an invitation letter or a letter of support, or the IECN’s assistance with visa matters for event participants guarantees that a visa will be granted.
The onus is on the visa applicant to demonstrate that they meet all the legislative requirements for the grant of an Australian visa. Once a decision is made, it is final and no further assessment or review of the application can take place. There is a guide regarding what information and documentation must be provided to support a Visitor (subclass 600) Business stream visa available on the department’s website at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/visitor-600/business-visitor-stream#HowTo.
See the ‘Gather your documents’ heading > ‘Show steps’ > ‘Genuine visitor documents’ heading and ‘Business visitor documents’ heading.
Meeting participants applying for the Visitor (subclass 600) Business stream visa should also provide information regarding the reason or purpose of attending the congress, and how their employment or studies relates to the nature of the congress. Applicants should also provide evidence of any international travel outside of their own country (for example, copies of visas and passport pages containing entry and departure stamps), and information and evidence of attendance at similar events of this type/nature.
Currency, Banking, Taxes & Tipping
All prices quoted for NSM 2026 are in Australian Dollars (AUD) and include a Goods and Services Tax (GST). In Australia, GST is calculated at 10%.
Customs
Delegates carrying commercial goods or samples may need to obtain permits for their goods depending on the nature of the goods, regardless of value. Quarantine and wildlife regulations and other restrictions may also apply to certain goods. All travellers must declare amounts of $10,000 or more in foreign or Australian currency (notes and coins) you take into or out of Australia. For more information visit www.customs.gov.au.
Changing Money
International airports and major hotels provide money-changing facilities. Banks are generally open from Monday to Friday from 9:30am – 4:00pm. Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are widely available.
The Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS)
International travellers can claim a refund of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) paid on goods bought in Australia. The refund only applies to goods taken as hand luggage upon departure. The refund will be paid on goods costing A$300 or more, bought from the same store. For details visit www.customs.gov.au.
Registration Cancellation
Cancellation and Refund Policy
Registration cancellations must be made in writing via email to All Occasions Group at conference@aomevents.com. Cancellations received more than 30 days prior to the NSM will receive a full refund minus a $150 administration fee. Cancellations received between after 30 days and up to 7 days prior will receive a 50% refund or may be refunded in exceptional circumstances at the discretion of the host. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 7 days of the NSM; however, a substitute delegate may attend in your place at no extra cost. There will be no refund for failure to secure a visa to attend the NSM. Refunds for deposits made to external providers (e.g., hotels, tour operators) are at the discretion of the supplier.
Transfer of Registration
Registrations can be transferred to another person without penalty by notifying in writing via email to All Occasions Group at conference@aomevents.com. Within 7 days prior to the NSM, no refunds will be provided for transfers of registration.
Accommodation and Travel Planning
Information regarding recommended accommodation options can be found HERE.
Perth Airport is located approximately 20–30 minutes from the city centre, with a range of transport options including taxis, rideshare services, airport shuttle services and public transport connections available.
Visa Letter
Delegates requiring a letter of invitation to support visa applications may request one after completing registration and payment.
Invitation letters are issued for the purpose of supporting travel documentation only and do not guarantee visa approval.
For invitation letter requests, please contact, conference@aomevents.com.
Credit Cards
Major credit cards, particularly VISA and Mastercard, are widely accepted. Most places also accept American Express.
Emergency Phone Numbers
In the case of an emergency, call triple zero (000) for ambulance, fire or police assistance throughout Australia.
If calling from a mobile, you may call 112.