the 24th International Conference on Arabidopsis Research (ICAR), the largest annual international scientific conference devoted to Arabidopsis thaliana – a model plant worked with by an estimated 16,000 labs around the world，will be held in the recently refurbished Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre. With its prime Darling Harbour waterfront location and world-class facilities, the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre is adjacent to a wonderful array of restaurants to suit everyone’s budget, and within close walking distance of a variety of hotels, motels and apartments. Sporting and cultural events and shopping opportunities are a major part of life in Sydney and the integrated transport network of trains and buses make it easy and comfortable to get around. Sydney is one of the most dynamic cities of the Asia-Pacific region. It is renowned for scientific research and development and technological progress. Combined, these features will ensure a large and successful meeting.