PA Conference Early Bird registration open to members

Early Bird registrations have opened for Australia’s biggest philanthropic event, the Philanthropy Australia Conference 2026. Join more than 1000 changemakers in Brisbane this September for the most ambitious and forward-looking philanthropy conference yet, exploring the theme “Mobilising Generosity, Shaping the Future”. 

Philanthropy Australia CEO Maree Sidey said the conference comes at a pivotal time for the sector and the nation. 

“We are entering an era of both significant opportunity and profound responsibility, as needs in our communities intensify,” Maree said. 

“This is a moment to gather for critical conversations and collaborative leadership rooted in courage, generosity and a shared belief in creating a better future for all.” 

The 2026 Program 

The core conference program will run from Tuesday 8 September to Thursday 10 September, with immersive fringe experiences bookending the week.  

• Masterclass Monday (7 September) will offer a series of deep-dive, practitioner-led workshops 

• Field Trip Friday (11 September) will offer inspiring field trips and excursions organised by a dedicated group of QLD-based practitioners 

A mix of plenaries, breakout sessions and immersive experiences will be organised around four streams that explore leadership, practice, systems and collective action.   

A powerful first line up of international keynote speakers will bring distinct global Guests already confirmed include Joanna Kerr, NutHatch (Canada), Anita Patel, Bush Foundation (United States), Trista Harris, FutureGood (United States) and Paul Ash, Christchurch Call (New Zealand)  

“These speakers are some of the most forward-thinking voices in international philanthropy,” said Maree. “Their combined perspectives will offer delegates a rare opportunity to engage with the ideas, trends and global shifts shaping the future of giving and explore how philanthropy can respond with ambition, clarity and impact” 

Co-create with us 

Philanthropy Australia embraces a collaborative approach to the Conference, creating space for members and partners to bring forward ideas, experiences, questions, practices and partnerships. We invite expressions of interest (EOI) for the following. 

• Hosting a Masterclass 
• Leading a Breakout session 
• Submitting your ideas for plenary sessions, content and speakers 

We also invite partnerships that will help us bring this Conference to life. Various opportunities are available for organisations who are looking to network, connect with and show leadership among the most diverse and influential voices in philanthropy and social impact.  

View partnership prospectus. 

“The Philanthropy Australia Conference 2026 is designed to inspire and challenge us, to sharpen our practice, strengthen our relationships and rise to the urgency of this moment. We hope you’ll join us,” Maree said. 

Philanthropy Australia acknowledges and thanks our founding Principal Partners Perpetual and the Tim Fairfax Foundation for their leadership and generous support of the Philanthropy Australia Conference 2026. 

REGISTER NOW  

Early Bird registration for the core Conference (Tuesday-Thursday) is now open to Philanthropy Australia members, with tickets to go on sale to non-members from 5 March 2026.  Register now. Registration for the fringe events will open separately at a later date.