- Innovative Industries of the Future Conference to be held in Bunbury, 27 and 28 October, with optional pre and post conference events
- Full program and registrations now open
- Speakers to cover robotics, automation, artificial intelligence and the energy transition
- Cook Labor Government supporting economic diversification and jobs across regional WA
The South West will take centre stage in October when Western Australia's next job-creating industrial era is showcased at a major conference in Bunbury, presenting the region as being central to this transformation.
The 2026 Innovative Industries of the Future Conference will explore advancements and opportunities across key growth sectors including advanced manufacturing, agritech, energy, and the circular economy.
Over four days in Bunbury, the conference will see participants from across the country discuss industry trends and investment opportunities. The main two-day conference, over 27 and 28 October, will be supported by a wider program, with industry tours on Monday 26 October and invitation-only board room discussions on Thursday 29 October centred on moving concepts into practical solutions.
In addition to presentations and panel discussions, there will also be technology and robotics demonstrations as well as breakout workshops to delve deeper into each topic, including a 'Making More, Smarter: Scaling manufacturing in regions' workshop, focusing on how advanced manufacturing can help regional businesses increase productivity, compete globally and create high-value employment.
The extended program for the 2026 Innovative Industries of the Future Conference is now online at iifconference.com.au , setting out the full four days including industry tours, keynote sessions, concurrent workshops, the innovation and investment showcase and evening functions.
For more information or to book tickets to II26, visit iifconference.com.au
As stated by Regional Development and Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson:
"ThisInnovative Industries of the Future Conferencehighlights the South West's growing role in building the industries that will power WA's future economy.
"The CookLaborGovernment has a proven track record of supporting local jobs, and through our Made in WA Plan we are helping regions like the South West seize the opportunities created by new and emerging industries.
"By bringing industry and investors together in Bunbury and through supporting events like IIF, we are helping create the conditions for more jobs and more opportunities across the South West."
As stated by South West Minister Don Punch:
"The South West has everything the industries of the future need, making Bunbury the perfect place to host IIF26.
"The conference will bring together industry leaders, investors and innovators to showcase opportunities across advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, agritech and the circular economy.
"As the global economy evolves, the Cook Labor Government is investing in the infrastructure, skills and industry development needed to diversify our economy, create more jobs and build the workforce of the future.
"The partnerships formed in Bunbury this October have the potential to attract investment, grow local businesses and create lasting opportunities across the South West and Western Australia."
