ICC Sydney Awarded Top ‘Green Venue’ Status by Green Music Australia

International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney), managed by ASM Global, has been certified as a ‘Green Venue’ under Green Music Australia’s pilot sustainability program, achieving a score of 4 stars — the highest rank awarded to a venue in the program this year. This recognition highlights ICC Sydney’s exceptional environmental and social impact strategies and initiatives, setting a new standard for sustainability excellence in the live entertainment events sector.

ICC Sydney’s innovative practices foster social inclusion and reduce the environmental footprints of events, setting a benchmark for venues across Australia.

ICC Sydney, Chief Executive Officer, Adam Mather-Brown said: “We’re proud to be recognised as a certified Green Venue. Our mission is to make a difference and that includes delivering real environmental and social impact through the live entertainment events we host in ICC Sydney Theatre and Darling Harbour Theatre.

“Underscored by our passionate in-house team, this accreditation was made possible through their dedication to drive positive event legacies in partnership with our clients, communities, and performers.”

Green Music Australia, Chief Executive Officer, Berish Bilander said: “Green Music Australia is beyond thrilled to recognise ICC Sydney as one of the first certified sustainable venues in Australia. Through our program, we have independently assessed how venues are navigating their own path to environmental sustainability. It has been truly exciting to see how venues like ICC Sydney are implementing policies to reduce their impact and build environmental responsibility across the sector. We look forward to expanding the program across New South Wales and recognising the wide range of venues already undertaking important action to care for Country.”

ICC Sydney’s approach to improving environmental sustainability, community engagement, and economic development supports progress towards a net zero carbon events future, including:

• Residing on Gadigal land on the shores of Sydney’s vibrant harbour, ICC Sydney can activate sustainable, inclusive and accessible event practices that leave a positive legacy for the community through the five streams of its Legacy Program – Environmental Sustainability, First Nations, Inclusion & Belonging, Creative Industries and Innovators & Entrepreneurs.
• Together with its Darling Harbour Live partners, ICC Sydney purchases 20% renewable energy through its energy contract, which together with the onsite solar array, uses 25% renewable energy to power the venue.
• ICC Sydney works to embed a culture of environmental conscientiousness throughout the venue and delivers comprehensive campaigns aimed at educating and encouraging team members to travel sustainably to work, reduce waste and energy consumption, and support local sustainable suppliers – initiatives the venue team hopes will continue to reduce its environmental footprint.
• ICC Sydney aims to meet its waste diversion target of 75% by managing several waste streams, including in its entertainment venues ICC Sydney Theatre and Darling Harbour Theatre.
• Socially, ICC Sydney manages food and event goods donation programs contributing to a sustainable circular economy by providing items to local charities.
• ICC Sydney’s Accessible and Inclusive Events Guide for event organisers ensures welcoming environments and experiences reflecting the venue’s dedication to customer inclusivity and accessibility.

The Green Venue Program is supported by the New South Wales (NSW) Government through Sound NSW and the Australian Government through Music Australia. The program incentivises and celebrates venues undertaking positive change for the planet. 

Participating venues are assessed for their action in key environmental areas such as energy, waste, food and procurement. In 2025, the successful pilot of the Green Venue Certification in NSW saw nine of the state’s venues certified for their environmental action, including top-performer, ICC Sydney.

Green Music Australia is the national peak body for music and the environment. Led by a dedicated team of musicians and music industry professionals, the organisation facilitates industry improvements to environmental performance and advocates for ambitious climate action.