Join Australia’s most dynamic and innovative thought leaders in HR and L&D as they explore current and emerging developments impacting people, process and technology.

The world of work is being fundamentally reshaped, with rapid advancements in technology, shifting employee expectations, multi-generational teams, and new models of flexibility are redefining how organisations attract, develop and retain talent. For HR and L&D leaders, the challenge is no longer just supporting the workforce of today, it is designing the workforce of tomorrow.

HR & L&D Innovation and Tech Fest AU explores how the nature of work is evolving and what that means for organisations as they evolve. From AI-enabled learning and skills-based talent strategies to human-centred leadership, workforce analytics, and new approaches to performance, wellbeing and inclusion, this event will examine the tools, mindsets and capabilities required to thrive in an era of constant change. 

HR Research Report - The Human Function in an Inhuman Pace of Change

HR

L&D Research Report - Learning to 
Learn Differently

L&D

Event Testimonials

"HR + L&D Innovation & Tech Fest AU 2026 was a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded HR and business leaders and explore the practical application of AI, technology, and innovation in the workplace at a time of great change. The quality of the discussions and speakers was outstanding, and I left with valuable insights, new connections, and ideas that I look forward to implementing in my workplace."

Chris Best
General Manager People Operations, Latitude Financial Services

"Another fabulous HR + L&D Innovation & Tech Fest event! A beautifully curated lineup of speakers across the two days, covering the topics HR Leaders have been asking for. Always fresh, thought provoking and full of opportunities to make great connections."

Melissa Crawford
Director, Tech With Heart

“It was a privilege to be part of HR + L&D Innovation & Tech Fest AU 2026 as a panellist on the Chief People Officer Strategic Outlook & Ask Me Anything panel. I really valued the opportunity to share perspectives alongside fellow people leaders, engage with the audience on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of work, and learn from the broader HR and L&D community. The event sparked plenty of thoughtful conversations and fresh ideas that I’ve taken away with me.”

Sarah Bottomley
Chief People Officer, Service Stream
"My experience at the HR + L&D Innovation & Tech Fest was fantastic! It was great to hear from industry leaders around the usage of AI in predominantly human domains such as L&D & HR. The keynotes were particularly insightful and covered a wide variety of topics, avoiding repetition. The industry connections I made and conversations with leaders & vendors were extremely positive and I look forward to attending next year."
Mark Fam
Associate Director, L&D Global, HelloFresh

"I absolutely loved the two days. The event was exceptionally well run and every session I attended provided valuable insights and practical takeaways. It was one of the most engaging and relevant HR and technology conferences I have attended."

Stacey Dawes
Director of People & Culture, National Breast Cancer Foundation

"Speaking at the HR + L&D Innovation & Tech Fest was a fantastic experience. There was a real energy and curiosity in the room, and I loved the opportunity to share my thinking with such an engaged community of HR and L&D professionals. The team were also incredibly supportive and professional throughout, which made the whole experience a pleasure to be part of."

Moran Baillie
Principal, Moran Baillie
"HR + L&D Innovation and Tech Fest Australia is the event for professionals passionate about people. There is a real effort up front to understand what’s on people’s minds and identifying who’s best placed  to share their experience, insights and expertise. The result is a 2 day bonanza of connection and conversations focused on adding value – to how we work and how we live. I left this year’s event in Sydney energised by new ideas and better yet – new people to continue to have conversations with."
Vanessa Blewitt
Capability Manager: Centre of Excellence, NAB
"The HR + L&D Tech Fest is always such a standout event. It brings together an incredible mix of engaging speakers, innovative vendors and genuine networking moments. The energy is vibrant, the topics are always relevant, and the organisation is seamless. It’s a great space to connect, learn and be inspired – I was thrilled to be part of it again this year."
Hayley Nuttall
Head of People and Culture, Ingenia Communities
"The opportunity to be immersed with so many open minded HR and L&D professionals all leveraging technology and AI in different ways and the showcases from the vendors over the 2 days of HR + L&D Innovation Tech Fest was inspiring. I learnt so much from my colleagues on the panel and the questions from the audience on how they were developing new skills and capabilities in a world of disruption with AI. It was clear that no matter what technology or new innovation was changing the future of work, we all needed adaptability, judgement and curiosity to thrive amongst it all! Bring on the future…."
Vesna Garnett
Chief People Officer, SunRice

"The year’s Tech Fest was once again, taken to another level. Not only did they have speakers that covered everything relevant to any HR & L&D practitioner, but we gained insight to the best-of-the-best latest technologies. This event continues to be one of my main ways to stay ahead of future trends, helping me to elevate my clients in the learning solutions they’re creating. For me, it’s the best run HR & L&D conference held within Australasia.”

Clare Horrobin
Learning Director, Horrobin Learning
"A must attend event for all HR leaders either going through or thinking about technology changes within their company."
Dean Jackson
Director, Global P&C Digital Experience, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners
"The biggest thing I learned from attending this event: don't just sign up and attend –show up and engage. The other participants are active, creative, and fun, and the sponsors bring real innovation to the industry as well. You'll leave with practical ideas and insights to improve your people practices for the year ahead."
Ben Eubanks
Chief Research Officer, Lighthouse Research & Advisory
"The event is an HR tech ecosystem on its own. Highly recommended!"
Bernadette King
Technology Director, People Systems – Woolworths Group
"I attended the conference last year and found it to be the best event I’ve participated in. So much so that I have already blocked the 2026 dates in for my Exec!"
Lisa Rashleigh
Manager, Corporate Education and Systems Learning, Education and Development
"A must attend annual event where global thought leaders share their vision, powerful content, insights and expertise to provoke thinking, visioning, decision making and problem solving – highly recommended."
Kirby Grattan
Chief People Officer, Western Sydney Airport