6th Annual
Future of Construction Summit
CONFERENCE | EXHIBITION | NETWORKING EVENTS
19-20 May, 2026 | Royal International Convention Centre, Brisbane
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Hear from Industry Experts, explore Cutting-Edge Innovations, and leave with Actionable Strategies to Propel Your Career and Business forward. Save your spot!
Meet Our Speakers
Simon Crooks
CEO, Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GICCA)
Dale Connor
COO & CEO Construction, Lendlease
Leah Kelly
Deputy Director-General, Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning
Pat Sowry
First Assistant Secretary Infrastructure, Defence Australia
Katherine Richards AM
Chief Engineer, Engineers Australia
Scott Power
CEO, BMD Group
Mark Baker
CEO, BESIX Watpac
Dominique Gill
Managing Director, Urban Core
Roger Wahl
Global CTO, Innovo Group
Margot Brassil
Director, Construction Leadership Group, Infrastructure NSW
Gert-Jan de Graaff
CEO, Brisbane Airport Corporation
Building Australia's Future - Faster, Smarter, Together
Australia stands at a critical inflection point. The nation faces an unprecedented wave of construction demand – from delivering 1.2m new homes and upgrading defence facilities, to building renewable energy projects, data centres and critical transport and social infrastructure. Collectively these commitments represent hundreds of billions in public and private investment – and a once in a generation opportunity to strengthen Australia’s social and economic foundations.
But to meet these needs, Australia’s construction industry must evolve fast. Success will depend on breaking down silos between government, owners, contractors, designers, financiers and technology providers. It will require new forms of partnership and procurement, smarter use of data and digital tools, and a willingness to embrace industrialised, sustainable and AI-enabled methods of delivery.
The Future of Construction Summit exists to accelerate that transformation.
It brings together the people, ideas and technologies shaping the next era of building – where collaboration drives performance, innovation delivers certainty and the industry’s collective capability becomes the cornerstone of Australia’s prosperity.
What Attendees Say About FCON
What Not to Miss
The 6th annual Future of Construction Summit #FCON26 promises to be bigger and better than ever, and will feature:
ROUNDTABLES
The roundtables are focused group sessions designed to connect peers, test thinking, challenge views, benchmark and collaborate.
NETWORKING EVENTS
Pre-Summit Networking Drinks and official Industry Networking Dinner. Our event partners will also run VIP breakfasts and lunches.
Registration is Now Open!
Register early and save
Contractor & Government ticket
Special launch price available exclusively to asset owners and contractors
- Book and pay by 28th November 2025
- Access to all conference sessions
- Access to networking opportunities
- Post-event session recordings and presentation slides
General ticket
Limited Offer
- Book and pay by 28th November 2025
- Access to all conference sessions
- Access to networking opportunities
- Post-event session recordings and presentation slides
Vendor ticket
A vendor is any organisation that sells products, services or solutions to Construction Firms/Contractors
- Access to all conference sessions
- Access to networking opportunities
- Post-event session recordings and presentation slides
Agenda
Day 1 | Tuesday 19th May, 2026
Main conference registration & morning coffee
Chairs opening remarks
Innovation across construction is increasingly being recognised as a key enabler—not only in solving long-standing industry challenges but also in unlocking new levels of efficiency, precision, and productivity. From streamlining workflows to accelerating timelines and reducing costs, forward-thinking tools and processes are redefining how Australia builds.
POLICY, PROJECTS & PROSPERITY- THE TRENDS SHAPING AUSTRALIA’S CONSTRUCTION LANDSCAPE
QLD OPENING ADDRESS: Examining EDQ’s new strategic plan with a focus liveable places
The EDQ as the Queensland Government’s land development agency, is positioned to support the Government’s priorities. Our new strategic realignment is focused on housing supply, economic prosperity, and liveable places.
In this session A/CEO of EDQ Julian Simmonds will showcase how they are supporting the creation of thriving communities through a coordinated approach across strategic land activation, integrated infrastructure planning, and a precinct-focused model to development. In particular Julian will address:
- EDQ’s Priority Development Areas (PDAs) declaration to activate underutilised land
- Fostering a Coordinating planning and infrastructure investment across the
- Embracing a precinct approach
NATIONAL OPENING ADDRESS: Building confidence in a changing nation: A unified vision for the future of Australia’s construction industry
As Australia faces one of the most transformative decades in its construction history, collaboration between industry, government, and community has never been more vital. Nicholas Proud, CEO National of the Civil Contractors Federation, will address the state of the nation’s construction sector — from the challenges of workforce capacity, productivity, and procurement reform, to the opportunities presented by record infrastructure investment and new technologies. His remarks will set the tone for a summit focused on building smarter, faster, and fairer — ensuring the industry not only meets today’s demand but lays the foundation for a resilient, future-ready Australia.
MACRO-ECONOMIC FORECAST: Australian Construction & Infrastructure Market Outlook: Where are we headed?
Australia’s construction and infrastructure sector is entering a defining decade. This session provides a data-driven, forward-looking view of the forces shaping the market — from global capital flows and policy shifts to new asset classes and productivity pressures. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of where opportunities lie, what risks to prepare for, and how to position for success in an era of massive investment and transformation.
Key themes include:
- Global and domestic outlook: How macroeconomic trends, inflation, and geopolitical shifts are influencing demand, cost structures, and investor sentiment in Australia’s construction market
- Emerging asset classes: The rise of data centres, renewable energy infrastructure, desalination, and nuclear projects — and what they mean for capacity, capability, and capital allocation
- Housing and urbanisation: Examining the drivers of housing demand, the implications of rapid urban growth, and where new opportunities are emerging
- The productivity challenge: Understanding the sector’s efficiency gap — and the policy, technology, and workforce shifts needed to close it
This is the essential briefing for anyone seeking to navigate Australia’s next phase of construction and infrastructure growth.
CONSTRUCTION LEADERS PANEL: Turning challenges into momentum: Unlocking the future of construction in Australia
Australia’s construction industry is standing at a crossroads — facing its toughest challenges and greatest opportunities in decades. As population growth, urbanisation and sustainability imperatives drive an unprecedented project pipeline, the sector must find new ways to deliver more — faster, smarter and cleaner.
This session brings together industry leaders to explore how innovation, collaboration and culture can turn today’s constraints into long-term competitive advantage. Attendees will gain actionable insights into how the sector can boost productivity, build capability, and meet national infrastructure goals through new technologies, partnerships and delivery models.
Key discussion themes:
- Growth and opportunity: Capturing value from housing demand, renewable energy investment, and the adoption of AI, robotics and modular methods
- Sustainability as strategy: Meeting rising ESG expectations and emissions targets while delivering commercially viable projects
- Overcoming constraints: Tackling workforce shortages, cost escalation and supply chain risk through smarter planning and procurement
- Balancing priorities: How leaders can deliver projects rapidly without compromising safety, quality or long-term workforce development
“Low, Low, Code your Boat” - Construction business system orchestration made simple
Business orchestration refers to the integration, coordination, and automation of multiple processes, systems, and stakeholders across the project lifecycle to improve efficiency, reduce risk, and deliver better outcomes. In this session we explore how about creating a connected, automated, and collaborative ecosystem enables technology to manage the flow of work—so humans can focus on higher-value decisions rather than chasing paperwork or reconciling systems.
- Integrating fragmented systems to create cohesion
- Instilling process automation to enhance efficiency
- Fostering broad stakeholder collaboration
- Enabling data-driven decision making
Morning tea, speed networking & exhibition viewing
PLENARY | HOT SECTOR SESSIONS
In this session, Earlytrade shares their perspective on the global construction industry, including:
- Why the construction sector is poised for transformation
- What has held the sector back from being disrupted so far
- How will the industry benefit from autonomous and transparent supply chains
Earlytrade is the fastest growing technology company currently in the construction sector. Their clients have saved $40m using their technology platform whilst subcontractors have been paid $1.5 billion early.
Day 1 | Tuesday 19th May, 2026 | Plenary
INTERACTIVE ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS
Join our dynamic roundtable discussions, where participants connect with like-minded peers to exchange insights and explore timely, high-impact topics that are shaping the industry. Be part of an energised roundtable experience, where you’ll connect with peers, spark powerful conversations, and dive into the topics that matter most to you and your business. Roundtable 1: Avoiding complacency, by modelling safe behaviours to avoid human error on project sites
KEYNOTE ADDRESS: Building for Tomorrow: Leadership, Innovation & Resilience in Construction
As the construction landscape evolves at pace, senior leaders must steer their organisations with clarity, courage and vision. In this keynote, Mark Baker, CEO of BESIX Watpac draws on 25+ years of experience transforming one of Australia’s most dynamic builders and leading them into its most successful era yet. He will explore how operational excellence, integrated engineering capability and stakeholder-alignment are not just nice to have—but essential to thrive amid a challenging economic environment and optimally position to deliver the nation’s construction pipeline. With a focus on people, partnerships and the power of purpose-led delivery, Mark will challenge senior construction leaders to reset the bar on what “success” means and prepare their organisations for the next decade of disruption, opportunity and legacy-building. Key Themes: - Integrated capability for value creation – aligning traditional, modern and digital methods of construction with in-house engineering to deliver outcomes that truly add value for clients and communities - Resilience through disruption – how to position your organisation to absorb supply-chain shocks, cost escalation and regulatory shifts while still staying competitive and on-purpose - People, culture & leadership in transformation – building high-performing teams, cultivating safety and innovation mindsets, and leading change from the front - Legacy-thinking in the project mix – strategically selecting work that not for a sustainable future of the industry
Harnessing innovation and technology for more sustainable construction
InfraBuild is a key part of Australia’s manufacturing industry as the only electric arc furnace-based steelmaker, the country's second-largest metals recycler and the lowest carbon intensive steel producer in the nation. InfraBuild is more than a steel company. We're leading the shift to low-emission construction by using innovation, technology and our long history in local manufacturing to help customers build more sustainably. Key themes include: - Scope 3 emissions – how innovation is helping reduce embodied carbon in construction - Digital capabilities and emerging technologies – using online, robotics and AI in manufacturing to help the building and construction industry - Trusted partnerships – leadership and collaboration across the industry to help shape Australia’s tomorrow
Networking lunch break and exhibition viewing
MAJOR PROJECTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT
MAJOR PROJECTS PANEL: Building the Future – Infrastructure strategies for a sustainable, productive Australia
Australia’s next wave of nation-shaping infrastructure is underway — from transport and housing to data centres, hospitals and schools. This panel brings together leading public and private sector voices to unpack how major projects are being planned, funded and delivered to meet demand, drive productivity, and embed sustainability at scale. Key discussion themes: - National priorities: The strategic agendas driving investment across transport, housing, energy, health and education - Pipeline outlook: Major projects underway and emerging amid rising population, workforce pressure and cost escalation - Innovation in delivery: Technologies and models enabling faster, greener, and more efficient outcomes - Future impact: Building a more sustainable, diverse and resilient construction industry for Australia’s next generation Panellists include:
KEYNOTE ADDRESS: Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – An update on the Infrastructure delivery
In this short Keynote Address, Simon Crooks CEO of the Games Independent Infrastructure & Coordination Authority (GIICA) will share an insight into the strategies being undertaken to deliver a successful Games in 2032. After setting the scene, Simon will join a panel discussion on the broader initiatives being planned or are already underway.
OLYMPICS 2032 PANEL DISCUSSION: Building Brisbane 2032 – Delivering the Games and the Legacy Beyond
Queensland’s infrastructure program for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games is about more than venues — it’s about creating a legacy that transforms the state for generations. This panel explores the major projects reshaping transport, housing, and urban development, and how integrity, sustainability and social value are being embedded into every stage of delivery. Key themes: - Transport connectivity: Expanding and modernising networks across Brisbane and regional centres - Housing & urban renewal: Accelerating supply to meet population and workforce demand - Venues & community use: Building world-class facilities with long-term purpose - Sustainability & legacy: Embedding climate resilience and inclusive outcomes - Social procurement: Leveraging investment with integrity to create jobs, skills, and community benefits Panellists include:
Afternoon coffee and exhibition viewing
PRODUCTIVITY + THE CON-TECH INNOVATION SHARK TANK
Integrating the future state of construction
The industry is evolving — shaped by emerging technology, a changing workforce, and new ways of thinking. In this session, we'll highlight the four key pillars driving transformation: productivity, workforce, decision-making, and design. - Future of Productivity – How robotics and AI can drive efficiency through automation and augmentation - Future of the Workforce – Attracting, retaining, and empowering the next generation of talent through culture and technology - Future of Decision-Making – Using data to drive smarter, faster, and more strategic decisions - Future of Design – Enabling innovation through collaboration, automation, and more constructable design approaches Procore
PRODUCTIVITY, WORKFORCE, WELLBEING & CULTURE PANEL | Collaboration, workforce productivity, wellbeing & culture – building a smarter, stronger industry together
Australia’s construction sector faces a dual challenge: boosting productivity while tackling acute workforce shortages. This panel unites industry leaders to discuss how digital tools, lean practices, and cultural transformation can unlock efficiency, attract new talent, and strengthen resilience. The conversation will focus on creating a safer, more inclusive, and future-ready industry. Key themes: - Attracting, developing, and retaining skilled professionals across all regions - Addressing critical skills shortages through innovation and training - Driving diversity — especially increasing women’s participation in the workforce - Improving mental health, wellbeing, and site culture for long-term performance Panellists include:
CONTECH SHARK TANK | Tech innovators making waves in construction
Get ready for a high-energy showcase of the technologies transforming construction. In this fast-paced session, four cutting-edge ConTech innovators will pitch their game changing solutions designed to tackle the industry’s biggest challenges — from productivity and safety to sustainability and digital delivery. Watch as our panel of expert judges grill the contenders, debate their ideas, and ultimately crown the next big disruptor in construction technology. ConTech contestants include: Judges include:
Welcome Address – Cocktail Sponsor
Shark Tank Winner Announced
Hot Sectors: Construction spotlight sessions
Explore three of the most dynamic and high-growth areas reshaping Australia’s construction landscape. From the surge in data centre development driven by AI and digital infrastructure demand, to the expanding living sectors responding to the national housing challenge, and the rapid adoption of modern methods of construction (MMC) redefining how we build — these spotlights go deep into where the biggest opportunities lie.
Each session provides practical insights into market drivers, delivery challenges and investment priorities — helping attendees understand how to position their organisations, build capability, and play a pivotal role in delivering Australia’s most critical construction projects.
DATA CENTRES
Australia’s data centre pipeline is accelerating fast — powered by the exponential growth of AI, cloud computing, and the push for sovereign data capability. This expansion represents one of the most sophisticated and capital-intensive construction opportunities in the country. Delivering next-generation facilities demands new thinking: precision-engineered builds, resilient power and cooling systems, and modular, scalable designs that balance speed, performance and sustainability. By embracing advanced methods such as prefabrication, offsite assembly and renewable integration, Australia’s construction sector can play a pivotal role in creating the secure, efficient and sustainable infrastructure powering the digital economy.
SPECIAL ADDRESS: Constructing the Future - Australia’s digital infrastructure advantage
Australia’s rapidly expanding data centre ecosystem represents far more than a construction boom — it’s the foundation of the nation’s digital competitiveness. Beyond delivering cutting-edge facilities, this growth fuels transformation across every industry, generates thousands of skilled jobs, and cements Australia’s role as a leading Asia-Pacific hub for secure, sustainable digital infrastructure. How can Australia’s construction industry strategically meet the growing demands of digital infrastructure — harnessing innovation, sustainability and resilience — to unlock new sources of economic growth and secure its place as a global leader in technology and design?
PANEL DISCUSSION: Delivering Scale: Building high-density data centres in a high-demand market
Australia’s data centre boom is pushing the limits of construction capability. As demand from hyperscalers and enterprises accelerates, builders are under pressure to deliver larger, denser, and more resilient facilities — faster than ever before. In this opening discussion, leading contractors and delivery partners unpack how they’re meeting the challenge: scaling capacity, managing complexity, and integrating innovation across every phase of delivery. From procurement and modularisation to advanced cooling and compliance, this session explores what it takes to achieve construction excellence in one of Australia’s most competitive markets. Key themes include: - Maximising density: Designing and delivering high-capacity facilities that deliver more compute and storage within tighter footprints - Driving efficiency: Leveraging modular design, advanced cooling, and power optimisation to reduce costs and improve reliability - Building resilience: Embedding critical power, telecoms and electrical infrastructure to ensure uptime, scalability, and sustainability - Creating advantage: Concentrating digital infrastructure hubs to position Australia as an Asia-Pacific leader in data centre development Panellists include:
ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS
Roundtable 1: Modern Methods of Construction - How can modularisation, prefabrication, and off-site manufacturing transform data centre delivery to achieve speed, quality, and cost efficiency?
Networking lunch break and exhibition viewing
LIVING SECTORS
Building Homes, Shaping Communities: Opportunities in Australia’s Living Sectors Australia’s housing and living sectors are under unprecedented pressure from rapid population growth, urbanisation and affordability constraints. Meeting demand requires new thinking — and faster, smarter, more sustainable ways to build. This session explores how construction firms can play a pivotal role in delivering the next generation of housing and community assets. From modular and prefabricated methods to digital design and low-carbon materials, innovation is driving projects that are faster, greener and more cost-effective. Partnerships between government, industry and investors are also unlocking large-scale opportunities in build-to-rent, social housing and urban renewal.
SPECIAL ADDRESS: Building Housing, Building Capacity — Unlocking Australia’s next construction opportunity
Australia’s housing shortage is now one of the nation’s most pressing social and economic challenges — and one of its greatest opportunities. Delivering the homes our growing population needs will drive large-scale investment, create thousands of jobs, and accelerate the adoption of modern construction methods such as modular building, prefabrication, and digital design. This keynote explores how the national housing push can become a catalyst for innovation, collaboration and capability growth — strengthening the construction industry’s role in shaping sustainable, connected and resilient communities across Australia.
PANEL DISCUSSION: Delivering affordable, sustainable housing for a stronger Australia
Building more affordable and sustainable homes is key to advancing equity, wellbeing and economic growth. This discussion explores how innovation, collaboration and smarter delivery can provide immediate relief to Australia’s housing shortage while creating long-term community and environmental resilience. Key themes: - Infrastructure integration: Aligning housing with transport, utilities and social infrastructure - Workforce development: Expanding skills and apprenticeships to meet demand - Modern methods: Using modular and prefabricated techniques to cut cost and time - Digital engineering: Leveraging BIM, data and AI to boost efficiency - Sustainability: Applying low-carbon materials and design for lasting impact Panellists include:
ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS
Roundtable 1: Scaling Delivery - How can modular, prefabrication, and digital construction methods accelerate affordable housing supply in Australia?
Afternoon coffee and exhibition viewing
MODERN METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION (MMC)
Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) are reshaping how Australia builds — offering faster, safer, and more sustainable ways to deliver the housing and infrastructure the nation urgently needs. By moving much of the work off-site, MMC improves quality, reduces waste, and helps overcome skilled labour shortages. Through precision manufacturing, standardisation, and digital integration such as BIM, MMC cuts delays, lowers costs, and accelerates delivery. As Australia faces rapid population growth and net-zero targets, MMC isn’t just an innovation — it’s a strategic pathway to a more productive, resilient, and sustainable construction industry.
Scaling Modular: Examining how offsite construction delivers faster, greener, and more profitable projects
Modern Methods of Construction are proving their value across global markets, helping projects overcome cost overruns, labour shortages, and sustainability pressures. This session will demonstrate how modular and offsite approaches are delivering tangible benefits today. In this session we explore how MMC is cutting delivery times, reducing carbon footprints and unlocking new opportunities for profitability and scalability in construction projects. - Future of Productivity – How robotics and AI can drive efficiency through automation and augmentation - Future of the Workforce – Attracting, retaining, and empowering the next generation of talent through culture and technology - Future of Decision-Making – Using data to drive smarter, faster, and more strategic decisions - Future of Design – Enabling innovation through collaboration, automation, and more constructable design approaches Procore
PANEL DISCUSSION: Modular Momentum – Cutting Costs, accelerating delivery, driving sustainability
Modular and offsite construction are redefining how Australia builds — delivering faster, cheaper and greener outcomes. By moving work into controlled environments, these methods reduce waste, improve quality, and enhance safety. This panel explores how modular is transforming project delivery and what’s needed to scale its adoption nationwide. Key themes: - Cost efficiency: Cutting waste and labour costs through offsite fabrication - Faster delivery: Parallel onsite and offsite workflows - Sustainability: Lower emissions and smarter resource use - Quality & safety: Achieving precision and consistency in factory-built environments Panellists include:
ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS
Roundtable 1: Cost Efficiency: Examining how MMC reduces material waste and labour costs through offsite fabrication and standardisation
Networking drinks
FCON26 Gala Dinner
Day 2 | Wednesday 20th May, 2026
Registration & morning coffee
The industry is evolving—shaped by emerging technology, a changing workforce, and new ways of thinking. In this session, we’ll highlight the four key pillars driving transformation: productivity, workforce, decision-making, and design.
- Future of Productivity – How robotics and AI can drive efficiency through automation and augmentation
- Future of the Workforce – Attracting, retaining, and empowering the next generation of talent through culture and technology
- Future of Decision-Making – Using data to drive smarter, faster, and more strategic decisions
- Future of Design – Enabling innovation through collaboration, automation, and more constructable design approaches
Chairperson’s opening remarks
It’s often said that construction lags behind other industries in digital adoption — but that perception is changing fast. In an era of rising costs, workforce pressures and shifting expectations, embracing technology is no longer optional; it’s essential.
Across two inspiring international keynotes, we’ll explore how building a culture of innovation, empowerment and inclusion — especially through the advancement of women in construction — can unlock new levels of performance, resilience and growth across the sector.
TECHNOLOGY, INNOVATION AND EMPOWERMENT
INTERNATIONAL KEYNOTE: An international insight on global ConTech developments and trends
In this session Julia will discuss the key construction technology trends she is seeing globally and how greater investment will move the needle towards greater implementation and adoption.
Constructing the Future: Smarter workflows, smarter projects with Bluebeam
The construction industry across APAC is entering a new era of speed, scale, and complexity. Rapid urbanisation, ambitious infrastructure programs, and multi-site projects are driving a critical need for smarter, faster, and more connected workflows. At the same time, AI and digital technologies are unlocking unprecedented opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration across the project lifecycle. In this session, Bluebeam explores how AI-powered workflows are transforming construction in APAC.
Morning tea and exhibition viewing
TECHNOLOGY & DIGITAL DELIVERY | NET ZERO CONSTRUCTION | PROJECT DELIVERY
- Embedding project management best practice
- Creating more resilient supply chains
- Resource handling
- Incorporating AI driven data analysis to enable better decision making
TRACK 1:
TECHNOLOGY & DIGITAL DELIVERY
Chair’s opening remarks:
INTERACTIVE ROUNDTABLES
Join this interactive series of roundtables designed to spark collaboration and share best practices around digital transformation, AI, and modern construction innovation. Each session provides a focused opportunity to exchange insights, tackle shared challenges, and explore what’s next for Australia’s construction industry.
Roundtable 1: AI in Construction: The Hype vs. Reality
How are firms using AI today to improve forecasting, safety, and efficiency — and what barriers remain?
Facilitated by:
Roundtable 2: AI Governance, Data Security & Training Exploring how to safeguard information and build AI-ready teams. Facilitated by:
Roundtable 3: Enabling AI and data driven business processes to create more transparent and sustainable outcomes across construction projects Facilitated by:
Roundtable 4: Examining how Robotics & Deep Tech are transforming modern construction From design to delivery, how are robotics and automation reshaping modern builds? Facilitated by:
Roundtable 5: Breaking Down Silos: Using data and collaboration to enhance performance How integrated data and teamwork drive real-time decision-making. Facilitated by: Procore
Roundtable 6: Managing the entire project lifecycle from planning, through to operations and maintenance Facilitated by:
Roundtable 7: The next evolution of BIM & Digital Twins beyond design coordination — driving real value in scheduling, asset management, and on-site efficiency. Facilitated by:
Roundtable 8: Reducing project risk with a single source of truth Facilitated by:
Roundtable 9: Data Ownership & Integration Who owns project data, and how can seamless sharing unlock performance gains?
Roundtable 10: Workforce Tech Adoption Winning hearts and minds — how to upskill and engage teams in digital transformation.
Roundtable 11: The ROI of Emerging Tech Separating real value from hype — where to invest for maximum impact.
Roundtable 12: Future-Proofing Construction Enterprises What digital capabilities will define the next decade of competitive advantage?
Roundtable 13: Safety Through Technology Wearables, sensors, AI — which innovations truly move the needle on safety and compliance?
Roundtable 14: Cybersecurity on the Jobsite Protecting project data and connected devices from rising digital threats.
CASE STUDY: Using AI to develop a worldclass Construction Management Platform (CMP)
In this insightful case study, Heinrich Kukkuk and Ryan McDonough reveal how they harnessed AI to develop a Centralised Management Platform (CMP) integrating every core business function — from project management and finance to procurement, workforce, and compliance. By unifying data into one system of record, the CMP eliminates fragmentation, improves visibility, and streamlines decision-making across all sites. The session also explores how GenAI supported each phase of delivery — from business case development and workflow analysis to testing and training.
CASE STUDY: Developing an Innovation Hub across Martinus
With more than 600 employees and a strong focus on technology adoption, Martinus has invested in an Innovation Hub to accelerate digital transformation across the business. In this leading case study, Treaven Martinus and Shelly Van Hoos, Head of IT, share how the Hub was developed, the technologies driving the biggest impact, and the lessons learned along the way.
Discover what’s worked, what’s still evolving, and what they’d do differently if starting again.
TRACK 2:
NET ZERO CONSTRUCTION
Chair’s opening remarks:
Breaking the Barriers to Net Zero – Tackling materials, energy, supply chains & cost pressures
Reaching net zero in construction means overcoming four major hurdles: carbon-intensive materials, fossil-fuel reliance, fragmented supply chains, and cost-driven delivery models. This panel brings together industry leaders to explore how innovation in materials, energy, and procurement can turn these challenges into competitive advantage — where sustainability drives both profitability and performance.
Key themes:
• Greener materials: Reducing emissions from cement, steel, and asphalt
• Energy transition: Scaling electrification and alternative onsite energy sources
• Supply chain transparency: Building accountability across global networks
• Cost & market pressures: Balancing short-term costs with long-term carbon value
Panellists include:
Partnering for Net Zero: Driving low-carbon innovation across the supply chain
Construction is undergoing a sustainability transformation and materials innovation is at the heart of it. In this session, Dr. Ali Nezhad explores how Boral is partnering across the supply chain to accelerate the shift to low-carbon construction. From decarbonisation projects to evolving concrete performance, and from recycling services to sustainable asphalt solutions like RAP and crumbed rubber, discover how Boral is driving scalable change through collaboration, research, and service excellence.
ROUND TABLE DISCUSSIONS
Join this interactive series of roundtables designed to share strategies, challenges, and best practices for achieving Net Zero in construction. Each discussion connects leaders across design, delivery, and sustainability to explore how innovation, collaboration, and technology can drive measurable impact.
Round table 1: Building a Culture of Carbon Engagement
How capability building and shared ownership are key to achieving real Net Zero outcomes
Facilitated by:
Round table 2: From Cost Certainty to Carbon Certainty How digital platforms are redefining cost, carbon, and performance management in construction
Round table 3: Smart & Greener Materials Leveraging technology to reduce waste, track embodied carbon, and meet ESG targets
Round table 4: Powering the Energy Transition Onsite Exploring practical pathways to integrate batteries, electrification, and cleaner fuels
Round table 5: The Role of MMC in Sustainable Construction How modular and offsite methods can deliver faster, cleaner, and more resilient outcomes
Round table 6: Responding to Rising ESG & Reporting Demands Managing compliance, transparency, and accountability in a low-carbon future
TRACK 3:
PROJECT DELIVERY
Chair’s opening remarks:
SPECIAL ADDRESS: Embracing Innovation: Building a culture that delivers
Innovation isn’t just about technology — it’s about people. In an industry where change can meet resistance, creating a culture that encourages curiosity, collaboration, and courage is key to transforming how we build.
In this powerful session, Dominique Gill draws on her experience as a founder, builder, and industry reformer to explore how inclusive leadership, psychological safety, and open dialogue can unlock both human and technological potential. Because if we want to future-proof construction, we must first ask: are we creating a culture that invites the future in?
Key themes:
• Leading inclusively to spark innovation
• Creating safe spaces where people can challenge the status quo
• Empowering women and underrepresented voices to drive smarter solutions
• Lessons from when innovation failed — and why culture mattered
• Practical steps to embed innovation into daily work
• A call to action for leaders ready to shape the industry’s future
SPECIAL MINI ADDRESS: Fostering Behavioural Change: Building an inclusive and future-ready construction workforce
Creating a more diverse, inclusive, and respectful construction industry starts with changing behaviours and challenging unconscious bias. In this session, Lauren explores how cultural transformation and generational expectations are reshaping what it means to attract, develop, and retain top talent — and why inclusion is essential to the industry’s long-term success. Key themes: • Evolving culture: Promoting respect and inclusivity on every site and in every role • Women in construction: Breaking barriers and building stronger industry support networks • Generational shifts: Understanding what Gen Z expects from construction careers • Learning & development: Using mentoring, coaching, and leadership programs to grow and retain diverse talent
CASE STUDY: Partnering with Indigenous Australians: Driving productivity and creating lasting impact
Australia’s construction industry has a powerful opportunity to deliver both stronger projects and stronger communities through meaningful partnerships with Indigenous Australians. Beyond meeting procurement targets, genuine engagement can create business opportunities, training pathways, and shared value for local communities. This session explores how embedding Indigenous participation, diversifying supply chains, and co-designing initiatives with Traditional Owners can enhance project delivery, build trust, and drive long-term, inclusive growth across the sector.
SPECIAL ADDRESS: Robotics & AI – Powering the Next Productivity Leap in Construction
Construction is moving from manual sequencing to digitally orchestrated, model-driven delivery. In this session, Nathan Kirchner, Founding Director of Robotics Australia Group, reveals how robotics and AI are transforming site operations — from planning to execution. Learn how automation is enhancing precision, safety, and predictability while offsetting labour shortages and boosting productivity through technologies like BIM, digital engineering, and DfMA. Key themes: • Automated build tasks: Robots performing layout, rebar-tying, welding, and spraying with millimetre accuracy • Autonomous plant: Machines operating in assisted or fully autonomous modes to extend uptime and safety • Reality capture & QA: Drones and rover units scanning work-in-place for live defect detection and progress verification
CASE STUDY: From Innovation to Impact: How technology is redefining productivity and safety in construction
Construction technology has evolved from experimentation to execution. This session explores how digital platforms, AI, and connected workflows are transforming the way projects are planned and delivered — reducing rework, improving safety, and accelerating timelines. Discover how innovation is driving measurable gains in efficiency, reliability, and performance across modern construction.
Networking luncheon and exhibition viewing
TECHNOLOGY & DIGITAL DELIVERY | NET ZERO CONSTRUCTION | PROJECT DELIVERY
Policy changes, disclosure & reporting have changed the way companies are approaching their Net Zero obligations. In this session we discuss how integrating sustainability practices into construction processes can drive innovation, reduce waste, and create more resilient and inclusive communities all while moving towards net zero emissions. In this session we examine:
- How we build and the processes to reduce embodied carbon across construction including re-use and build for disassembly
- The implications of policy changes mandated by government for emissions reductions, disclosure and reporting
- The role of clean energy in modern construction and the development of electrification, EV machinery and ecofriendly fuels
- Modern materials and how we can build with less waste and achieve more sustainable circular outcomes
- The role procurement plays in modern sustainable construction and the implications for reporting and Scope 3
TRACK 1:
TECHNOLOGY & DIGITAL DELIVERY
PRESENTATION: Harnessing robotics and deep-tech to redefine construction
Breakthroughs in robotics and deep-tech are transforming construction — delivering automation, precision, and speed to processes once limited by labour and safety constraints. This session explores how forward-thinking firms are deploying these technologies to drive productivity, lower costs, and achieve higher-quality, safer, and more sustainable project outcomes.
CASE STUDY: From documents to decisions: Why a robust digital framework is the real enabler of BIM and Twins
Across the built environment, the rush to adopt BIM, Digital Twins, and other digital tools has often outpaced the establishment of the processes and governance needed to make them effective. Too often, projects start without a clear Project Information Requirement (PIR), Exchange Information Requirement (EIR), or BIM Execution Plan (BEP) — the essential building blocks that define purpose, accountability, and quality in digital delivery.
This presentation explores the tangible value of getting the digital process right from day one. Drawing on lessons from recent Tier 1 commercial projects in Sydney’s CBD and beyond, we’ll show how structured information requirements have delivered measurable returns in collaboration, quality, and asset readiness.
Through real-world examples, the session will demonstrate:
- The hidden ROI of digital discipline — how clear information requirements reduce waste, clarify roles, and accelerate design coordination
- What “good” looks like — practical insights from leading commercial and infrastructure projects that applied structured information frameworks to drive lifecycle value
- From compliance to capability — how informed owners are redefining success, moving beyond deliverables to ongoing digital operations and asset intelligence
- Bridging the digital divide — the critical role of consultants and advisors in translating client intent into actionable data strategies
ATA ANALYTICS PANEL: Collecting and analysing onsite data to make smarter decisions that also drive strategic delivery advantages
Construction projects generate vast amounts of data, from schedules and costs to equipment and workforce performance. The challenge is not in the collection, but rather the conversion into insights that drive better decisions. By embedding analytics into daily workflows, contractors can spot risks earlier, improve productivity, and protect margins.
- Risk Mitigation: Use predictive analytics to identify schedule slippage and cost overruns before they happen
- Operational Efficiency: Leverage dashboards to track real-time progress, resource allocation, and equipment utilisation
- Informed Decisions: Transform raw site data into actionable insights that support smarter bidding, planning, and client reporting
- AI & Data Security: Examining how AI is transforming how we use collect and data and how do we secure it safely?
Panellists include:
TRACK 2:
NET ZERO CONSTRUCTION
CASE STUDY: Spark – North East Link Project: Obtaining PAS 2080 accreditation and how it will help achieve greater Net Zero outcomes
The Spark Project is not only the largest Infrastructure project in Victoria but also the first project in Australia to obtain the PAS 2080 accreditation. This international carbon management standard sets a framework for leadership, governance, and collaboration across the value chain to reduce carbon in infrastructure. The presentation will cover:
- How PAS 2080 can be embedded into project systems and decision-making to achieve carbon reductions
- Lessons learned on fostering a project-wide carbon culture
- How the framework supports industry-wide transformation toward net zero
SPECIAL ADDRESS: Building Australia’s Clean Energy Future
Australia’s energy transition is driving a new wave of construction across renewable infrastructure — from solar, wind, and hydro projects to emerging green hydrogen facilities and the transmission networks that connect them. This session explores the scale of investment and delivery required to build new generation capacity, storage systems, and grid upgrades to replace ageing fossil-fuel assets and power a sustainable, low-carbon future.
PANEL DISCUSSION: From transition to transformation: Powering Australia’s clean energy future
Australia’s clean energy shift represents one of the greatest construction opportunities of our time. Decarbonising the energy supply will not only cut emissions and strengthen energy security — it will also create tens of thousands of skilled jobs and position Australia as a global leader in renewable energy and exports. This session explores how delivering this transformation effectively will drive sustainable economic growth, modernise ageing grids, and empower regional communities. Key themes: - Building the backbone: Delivering new renewable generation, storage, and transmission to replace fossil-fuel infrastructure - Partnerships for progress: Aligning government, industry, and investors to overcome supply chain and workforce constraints - Ensuring reliability: Integrating solar, battery storage, and grid upgrades to enhance energy security - Economic and social impact: Creating jobs and driving growth through Australia’s clean energy transformation Panellists include::
TRACK 3:
PROJECT DELIVERY
PROCUREMENT PANEL: Managing supply chains, costs and procurement to achieve on-time and on-budget project delivery
Rising costs, supply chain volatility, and complex regulations continue to challenge Australia’s construction sector. Yet with collaboration, transparency, and innovation, procurement can become a driver of performance rather than a barrier. This session explores how data-driven practices, digital tools, and stronger partnerships between government, contractors, and suppliers can build more resilient, efficient, and sustainable project delivery.
Key themes:
• Addressing cost escalation and supply disruption
• Leveraging digital procurement and local sourcing
• Building transparent, risk-sharing partnerships
• Upskilling teams to modernise procurement practices
Panellists include:
CASE STUDY: Aligning procurement technology with modern project demands
Construction teams are under pressure to deliver faster, safer, and more efficiently — yet outdated procurement processes often hold projects back. This case study shows how aligning digital procurement tools with real project needs can boost productivity, streamline workflows, and cut delays. Key themes: • Smarter procurement: Using data and digital platforms for visibility and value • Bridging the tech gap: Ensuring tools match project complexity • Boosting productivity: Integrating tech into daily workflows • Empowering teams: Upskilling staff for seamless adoption
ROUND TABLE DISCUSSIONS: Unlocking Better Project Delivery
Join this interactive series of roundtables designed to spark fresh thinking and share best practices for improving project delivery. Each discussion brings together industry leaders to explore practical strategies for boosting productivity, tackling workforce challenges, and driving smarter, more resilient outcomes across construction.
Round table 1: Enhancing Productivity with Robotics
Exploring how robotics and automation are transforming on-site performance and safety
Facilitated by:
Round table 2: Procurement Best Practice: Managing costs and supply chain pressures Strategies for maintaining efficiency and value amid material price volatility and logistics constraints Facilitated by:
Round table 3: Examining how cultural change and developing new career pathways can build a stronger and more diverse workforce Facilitated by:
Round table 4: Aligning technology and innovation to boost productivity Bridging the gap between tech adoption and real on-site impact
Closing networking reception and final exhibition viewing
Join us for the final opportunity for delegates, speakers and exhibitors to connect, network and share a drink
Close of FCON26
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