The 2026 Hunter Defence Conference is now open for registration.
Returning to the Hunter Valley in August, this nationally recognised event will bring together over 220 defence, industry, and government leaders to explore the forces reshaping Australia’s strategic future.
The 2026 theme, Building Your Defence Strategy, reflects the direction of the evolving defence market. This year’s format focuses on meaningful engagement through curated networking, small group discussions, and increased opportunities for direct connection- ensuring sponsors and exhibitors are genuinely seen and can build relationships that deliver real outcomes.
This year’s agenda will:
- Provide direct insight from senior Defence leaders across Navy, Army, Air Force and Joint Capabilities on current priorities and future programs
- Bring together major Defence Primes to share national and regional perspectives, including what they require from industry partners
- Present Australia’s strategic outlook within the global defence environment, including international collaboration and US engagement
- Explore major capability programs and emerging opportunities, including maritime projects such as SEA 3000
- Offer practical guidance for Australian businesses looking to build, position and grow a sovereign defence capability
- Showcase the role of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, in both Defence applications and business operations
- Demonstrate how AI and modern toolsets can be applied within your organisation today
- Highlight leadership, governance and the importance of Defence-connected boards in supporting sustainable growth
- Deliver expanded Q&A sessions and structured discussions to support practical understanding and application
- Create meaningful networking opportunities through curated sessions, small group engagements, extended breaks and the Conference Gala Dinner
​All Defence Services and major Defence Primes will be in attendance, providing current insights into capability priorities, procurement pathways and opportunities for industry to engage.​
Event Details:
Dates: 26–27 August 2025
Location:Â Rydges Resort Hunter Valley
Tickets:
• $1,190 + GST and booking fee – Member
• $1,290 + GST – and booking fee
Accommodation:
Please click “I have a code” and enter under “Corporate Code” the word 2608HUNDEF
​Click here to reserve.​
Terms & Conditions:
A ‘member’ is any organisation that is a Hunter Defence Key Stakeholder: RDA Hunter, HunterNet, Business Hunter, Australian Industry Group, Australian Industry Defence Network, Industry Capability Network NSW, Hunter Defence Support Network, University of Newcastle, TAFE NSW, Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre, and the NSW Government
- Conference packages include morning tea, lunch, the Wednesday evening cocktail event and the Thursday evening Gala Dinner. All other catering is at the delegate’s own expense.
- Conference packages exclude accommodation
- Conference tickets are non-refundable but delegates are transferable
- Photography and videography will take place throughout the conference. By registering for this event, you acknowledge and agree that your image may be used in future HunterNet promotional materials. If you prefer not to be photographed, please notify us at [email protected] before the event.
