Conference Field Trips and Side Events give delegates more opportunities to learn and connect

Registrations are now open for Field Trip Friday and a new program of participant-led Side Events. These new additions to the Conference program in 2026 will help delegates to connect more deeply with each other and place. 

“Connection, generosity and place‑based engagement sit at the heart of this year’s Conference,” said Maree Sidey, CEO of Philanthropy Australia. “We are intentionally expanding how and where those connections happen by creating more space around the core program for delegates to connect in meaningful, practical and grounded ways.” 

Taking place on Friday 11 September, Field Trip Friday has been developed in partnership with our dedicated Queensland Working Group and local organisations. Guided by local leaders and community voices, participants will experience philanthropy in action and gain first‑hand insight into collaborative, place‑based approaches to impact in Queensland’s communities, landscapes and cultural spaces. 

Open exclusively to Philanthropy Australia Impact, Engage Organisation and Engage Individual members, delegates can choose from six carefully curated field trips, each aligned to a key area of impact across the philanthropic ecosystem. 

Tour of Brisbane Cultural Precinct
Half-day
Explore how creativity strengthens community connection, wellbeing and identity 

3-Day Environment Field Trip
3 full days
Immerse yourself in Queensland’s natural landscapes and learn how philanthropists and environmental organisations are working together to protect and restore ecosystems 

Doing things differently: reimagining integrated hubs and working in partnership with young people
Half-day
Experience how the education sector is reimagining pathways to learning, healing and opportunity 

Mobilising Generosity in Medical Research
Full day
From Ecosystem to Impact: explore how philanthropy fuels an interconnected research ecosystem, from early discovery through to community impact 

Brisbane Social Enterprise & Philanthropy Tour
Full day
Discover how purpose-driven enterprises are building inclusive, sustainable local economies, and the catalytic role philanthropy plays in their growth 

Women, Safety and Futures: From Crisis to Safety to Thriving – How Philanthropy Changes the Story for Women and Children
Full day
Follow the journey from crisis to thriving, and see how coordinated supports can transform long‑term outcomes 

Places are limited, and members are encouraged to register early to secure their place. Register here. 

Side Events: extending connection beyond the program 

In a new addition, delegates who are organising events for their networks or groups alongside the Conference will now have dedicated space in the program to schedule a breakfast or dinner gathering.  

“We know that connecting with peers and networks is a vital part of the sector coming together,” Maree said. “To support this, we have introduced time around the core program for people to come together around shared interests and conversations. It’s an important way to deepen relationships before, during and beyond the formal Conference.” 

Side events are open to all delegates to either host, or attend, during dinner on Monday 7 September and Friday 11 September, or breakfast on Tuesday 8 September, Wednesday 9 September and Thursday 10 September. 

To help delegates choose a venue for any Side Events, Queensland Gives has curated a Social Good Map of Brisbane for the Conference. The map highlights social enterprises, for‑purpose organisations and non‑profits located within a 15‑minute walk of the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, perfect for meetings, coffees, meals and more. Access the map here. 

Delegates who would like to open their breakfast or dinner Side Event to fellow delegates can submit the details here. Approved side events will be promoted on the Conference website so others can easily discover and join. 

Secure your ticket for Philanthropy Australia Conference