2026 NSW Sports Industry Conference

Sport NSW is proud to unveil the full program for the 2026 NSW Sports Industry Conference, the state’s premier gathering of sport leaders, decision-makers and innovators. Taking place at ACPE in the heart of Sydney Olympic Park, this year’s conference promises a dynamic and forward-focused day designed to strengthen, connect and inspire the NSW sport sector.

With a powerful mix of research, policy insight, future thinking and practical application, the 2026 conference offers an outstanding opportunity for professional development and strategic alignment across community and high-performance sport.

A Landmark Moment for Community Sport

A major highlight of this year’s conference will be the official launch of “The Value of Community Sport”, a landmark report commissioned by Sport NSW.

For the first time, comprehensive research will detail the health, social and economic value of community sport across NSW. This evidence-based analysis provides critical data to support advocacy, funding and long-term investment in grassroots sport.

The report will be formally presented at the conference, followed by a panel discussion featuring representatives from all levels of government. This important conversation will explore how the findings can shape policy, partnerships and sustainable growth for the sector.

Government Leadership and Strategic Direction

The Hon. Stephen Kamper MP, Minister for Sport, will address delegates, outlining the NSW Government’s vision and priorities for community sport.

Attendees will also hear from Adam Berry, Deputy Secretary, NSW Office of Sport, who will share insights into strategic directions, funding opportunities and the evolving policy landscape impacting sporting organisations across the state.

Further strengthening the government and national perspective, newly confirmed speakers include Lindsey Reece and Tim Klar from the Australian Sports Commission, Hugh Piper from the Office for Social Cohesion, Kerry Turner from the NSW Office of Sport, and Ryan Holloway from the Australian Sports Foundation. Together, these leaders will provide valuable perspectives on participation, inclusion, social impact and sustainable funding models.

Future Focused Insights and Innovation

Looking beyond the immediate horizon, futurist Reanna Browne will challenge delegates to rethink how they view change. Rather than focusing on a distant or abstract future, Reanna will explore the concept of the “adjacent present”, the subtle shifts already unfolding within sport and society.

Her session will empower community sport leaders to respond strategically and confidently, identifying practical actions that can be implemented immediately to shape positive futures.

Delegates will also gain insight from Dawid Naude, one of the region’s leading AI innovators and educators. Building on his recent keynote at the 2026 Australian Open Global Coaching Conference, Dawid will demonstrate how artificial intelligence is transforming performance, participation, fan engagement and commercial growth, cutting through the hype to deliver practical applications for sport organisations.

From Grassroots to Olympic Gold to the Boardroom

Born in Malawi and migrating to Australia as a young child, Bronte Campbell's journey is a powerful testament to the role community sport can play in belonging and opportunity. Through swimming she found connection, purpose and a pathway to excellence, rising to become an triple Olympic gold medallist and one of Australia’s most respected athletes. Beyond the pool, Bronte has translated the lessons of high performance into business as a founder and leader, bringing a sharp perspective on resilience, culture and sustained success.

Why You Should Attend

The NSW Sports Industry Conference is a strategic investment in the future of your organisation and the sector. Attendees will gain insights from industry leaders, network with sport professionals from across NSW, explore practical solutions that can be implemented immediately, strengthen advocacy through a clear evidence base for investing in community sport, and be part of a landmark research launch that will help shape the future of the sector.

Registrations are now open for NSW’s premier sport industry event. Join colleagues from across the state for a day of insight, connection and leadership as we collectively shape the future of community sport in NSW.