At AWCI Australia, our focus in 2026 is simple: getting it right for our members. That principle sits at the heart of how we have designed the AWCI Australia National Conference in Cairns, 4–6 August 2026—a conference that is deliberately more contractor-focused, practical, and outcomes-driven themed – Embracing Transitions in a New era.

A key centrepiece of this year’s program is the Apprentice Challenge, which will feature across the main conference days. Workforce attraction, skills development and continuity of trade remain critical challenges for our industry, and the Apprentice Challenge brings these issues to life by connecting apprentices, employers, manufacturers and industry partners in one integrated program.

The conference opens on Tuesday 4 August with a welcome reception and networking evening. Wednesday 5 August will be fully dedicated to Trade Day, providing uninterrupted engagement between contractors, manufacturers, product suppliers and service partners. By dedicating an entire day to trade engagement, we ensure depth, continuity and value—while also recognising that attendees should be able to enjoy all that Cairns has to offer.

Thursday 6 August delivers strong content alongside the final expo morning and bump-out, with a series of contractor-focused business workshops and keynote sessions. Confirmed speakers include Kate Raymond, CEO of Master Electricians Australia, who will address the Security of Payment Act and advocacy for subcontractor trades, and Angelo Lambrinos, CEO and Commissioner of the QBCC, who will speak on licensing and regulation and what the QBCC is a leader in this space Nationally.

Workshops are being finalised to cover business fundamentals, estimating, compliance, fire systems, wellness, apprenticeships, licensing and the AWCI Code of Practice. We are also developing a Women in Construction panel, reflecting our commitment to representing everyone in our industry.

We conclude with the Awards Gala Dinner, co-hosted by Col Cameron and Jordana Borensztajn, featuring a blue-carpet experience similar to the highly successful 2025 Awards. Closing on Thursday allows members, partners and families to stay on and enjoy the long weekend in Cairns.

This conference has been designed for you. I encourage members to attend and take advantage of early-bird registrations.

Together, we are building a stronger, more sustainable industry.

Simon Tengende

Chief Executive Officer

AWCI Australia

Your industry. Your association. Your voice.