National Conference & Industry Expo 2026

Australia’s airports are more than gateways, they are the vital connectors that link communities, enable economic participation, and keep the nation moving. This year’s theme, Strong Airports, Strong Communities, recognises the essential role airports play in strengthening regional, rural and urban Australia alike. From major gateways to remote aerodromes, airports support access to jobs, health, education, trade and emergency services, underpinning resilience, productivity, sustainability and long-term opportunity across the country.

This theme brings the sector together to explore how strong, safe, sustainable and well‑connected airports build stronger communities and how collective leadership, investment and collaboration will ensure Australia remains connected, inclusive and resilient into the future.

As the preeminent aviation event in the Asia-Pacific region, the National Conference and Industry Expo is a dynamic and forward-thinking gathering offering a unique platform for thought leaders, industry experts, and key stakeholders to share insights, explore the latest developments, and continue to redefine the customer experience and operational performance across the sector.

With an immersive program packed with plenary sessions, case studies, and collaborative breakout discussions, attendees will gain unparalleled access to the industry’s brightest minds as they delve into the most pressing challenges facing the aviation sector.

Preceding the National Conference and Industry Expo is the ever-popular Women in Airports Forum.
Aligned with the National Conference theme of Strong Airports, Strong Communities, the Women in Airports Forum recognises that connection is ultimately built by people. Diverse, inclusive and equitable workplaces are essential to creating strong airports that truly serve their communities. This forum celebrates the leadership, expertise and lived experience of women across the aviation sector, while challenging the industry to remove barriers, broaden pathways and embed inclusion at every level. By strengthening representation, fostering inclusive cultures and supporting the next generation of leaders, the sector can build a workforce that reflects the communities’ airports serve, ensuring Australia’s aviation network is not only connected, but resilient, innovative and future‑ready and reflective of the communities they serve.

In 2026, together the Women in Airports Forum and National Conference and Industry Expo is a four-day dynamic program, a must-attend event for all aviation professionals seeking to stay ahead of the curve and drive the industry forward.

Group Registration 5+

Individual Registration

Discount Accommodation

Host Airport

• Equity and inclusion
• Co‑designing with communities
• Customer‑centric airport design
• Delivering aviation accessibility reforms in practice
• Psychological safety and wellbeing

Connecting the Network

• Safety and security
• Risk assessment
• Navigating through crisis
• Economic regulation
• Strategic partnerships
• Resource sharing across the sector
• Supply chain and stakeholder coordination

Connecting Regions

• Regional and remote connectivity
• Regional services and workforce access
• Economic development
• Freight, tourism and supply chains
• Climate resilience in regional operations

• Sustainability and net zero
• Fuel security
• Climate adaptation and mitigation
• Environmental management and protection
• AI and advanced technologies
• Infrastructure planning and investment
• Data and digital transformation

Connecting People

• Workforce planning and skills development
• Gender equity and inclusion
• Non‑traditional pathways into aviation
• Leadership and culture