Mobilising Generosity, Shaping the Future
The Philanthropy Australia Conference is the nation’s premier gathering for the philanthropic and for‑purpose sector; a landmark event that brings together more than 1,000 funders, changemakers and innovators from across Australia and around the world.
In 2026, we meet at a defining moment: as social and environmental challenges intensify, the opportunity and responsibility to mobilise generosity has never been greater. Across five days of learning and inspiration, Conference delegates will help shape the future of philanthropy in our region, as we explore the theme “Mobilising Generosity, Shaping the Future.”
Hosted in Brisbane for the first time, the core conference on September 8-10 is framed by immersive learning experiences on September 7 and September 11.
The Philanthropy Australia Conference 2026 will be a pivotal moment for our sector. Join us to connect, collaborate and harness the full potential of generosity.
“We are delighted to serve as Patrons of the 2026 Philanthropy Australia Conference as it is held in Queensland for the first time. This September will see delegates from all over Australia congregate in Brisbane for this important biennial gathering. Through our work with the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation, we have had the privilege of supporting diverse organisations across rural, regional, and remote Queensland and the Northern Territory over many years, reflecting our deep and enduring commitment to strengthening communities across the north of Australia.
We have seen firsthand how generosity and community leadership can drive meaningful and lasting change. Queensland’s philanthropic community continues to embrace innovation, collaboration, and place-based approaches to create stronger and more adaptable communities.
It is our great pleasure to welcome delegates to Brisbane - to connect, share knowledge, and be inspired by the collective impact our sector can achieve together, now, and into the future.”
Tim Fairfax AC and Gina Fairfax AC
Patrons of the 2026 Philanthropy Australia Conference
Program overview
The core Conference runs from Tuesday 8 September to Thursday 10 September, bookended by Masterclass Monday (Monday 7 September) and Field Trip Friday (Friday 11 September).
In 2026, participants will experience new programming such as an induction for first time conference attendees; a funders network showcase afternoon, multiple curated networking events, dedicated time for organisations to host side events and exclusive, member-only field trips to for-purpose initiatives across Brisbane and surrounds.
Conference
streams
The 2026 theme "Mobilising Generosity, Shaping the Future" reflects the moment that the philanthropic and for-purpose sector finds itself in, one that calls for greater and more effective giving, innovative thinking and mobilisation of collective efforts.
Our four thematic areas bring this theme to life in focused, practical and inspiring ways.
Mobilising ourselves: leadership and culture
Exploring the leadership and cultural shifts needed in philanthropy and for-purpose sectors to meet this moment with courage, humility, strategy and shared purpose.
Topics may include First Nations-led leadership; next-gen leadership; trustee capability; advisor capability; personal transformation; adaptative leadership; and learning from mistakes.
Mobilising systems: what we work on
Understanding how philanthropy can help shift the economic, environmental, technological and democratic systems shaping Australia’s future.
Topics may include climate change and environmental degradation; First Nations reconciliation; technology and AI; economic renewal; social cohesion; gender equity; wellbeing economy, multiculturalism; diversity; democracy and truth; arts; culture; and media.
Examining trust-based, equitable, collaborative and adaptive approaches to giving that deepen impact and strengthen relationships.
Topics may include participatory grantmaking; rural, regional and community giving; elevating lived experience; building trust and sharing power; effective giving tools; impact investing; measuring impact; intergenerational giving; PAF/PuAF practice; using all forms of finance; and collaborative giving.
Mobilising practice: how we give and invest
Mobilising together: connection and collective action
Exploring how collaboration across funders, communities, changemakers, intermediaries and movements can unlock ideas and impact that no single actor can achieve alone.
Topics may include collaboration models; shared agendas; coalitions and networks; cross-sector innovation; movement-building; ecosystem thinking; partnerships; place-based work; community-led change; community organising.
1000+
LIKEMINDED ATTENDEES
5
DAYS
30+
SESSIONS
4+
SOCIAL EVENTS
Where
The Conference will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on the lands of the Turrbal and Yuggera (Jagera) peoples, spanning north and south of the Brisbane River.
Book your accommodation today
Our Conference coincides with the Brisbane Festival so we expect that local accommodation will book out quickly. We encourage participants to register and confirm your accommodation early so you don't miss out.