- Innovative Industries of the Future returns in an extended event format, building on an initial standalone conference in 2024
- Twelve-month program of events launched in the lead-up to a second major conference in Bunbury
- Conference confirmed for October 2026
- Cook Government supporting economic diversity and job opportunities
Regional Development and Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson has today launched the second Innovative Industries of the Future (IIF) event series, building momentum for future seminars and setting the stage for the major conference in 2026.
In the new economic event series, IIF will shine a light on the trends and technologies shaping the future of Western Australia's industry and jobs.
Through an ongoing partnership between the City of Bunbury and South West Development Commission, Bunbury will again become a hub for discussions on innovative industries.
On the 27th and 28th of October Bunbury will host the IIF conference, drawing innovators to the region for another series of thought-provoking discussions.
This follows on from an initial conference held in November 2024, themed around global trends and future industries shaping economic growth and job creation, focusing on opportunities and challenges on the road to net zero.
Government leaders, international delegates, investors, entrepreneurs and academia converged in Bunbury for a deep dive into topics such as advanced manufacturing, renewables and international partnerships.
With strong stakeholder interest in continuing the conference, IIF will return in 2026. Expressions of interest are now open for organisations and individuals interested in being part of IIF 2026.
For more information or to submit an expression of interest, visit iifconference.com.au
As stated by Regional Development and Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Innovation is not just taking place in the metro area, we have innovative and entrepreneurial communities and businesses across regional WA. They are leading the way in diversifying our economy and job creation.
"By hosting a major conference like Innovative Industries of the Future in our regional areas, we bring together innovation and regional development, showing what's possible in our regions.
"I look forward to future events in the new IIF series and congratulate the event partners for staging these significant talks in a regional area."
As stated by South West Minister Don Punch:
"It's great to welcome the Innovative Industries of the Future series back to Bunbury in this expanded format. What began as a single conference in 2024 has grown into a program that highlights opportunities for industry and showcases everything Bunbury and the wider South West region has to offer.
"This series also provides local communities with the chance to learn from industry leaders, connect with like-minded peers in business and leadership, and contribute to the local economy - with benefits flowing to venues, accommodation providers, and businesses across the region."
