All Events in Gold Coast

National Homelessness Conference

Homelessness Australia: National Leadership in Advocacy and Reform

Homelessness Australia is the national peak body for homelessness in Australia. As the leading voice in the sector, the organization plays a pivotal role in advocating for policy change, coordinating the national response to homelessness, and supporting the community services that help people in crisis every day. Through a combination of research, consultation, and systemic advocacy, Homelessness Australia works tirelessly to end homelessness—not simply manage it.

A Voice for Change in the National Housing Landscape

With homelessness on the rise in many parts of the country, the work of Homelessness Australia has never been more important. The organization doesn’t deliver front-line services itself. Instead, it acts as a national umbrella body, providing leadership and coordination for hundreds of organizations, policy makers, and advocacy groups working on housing and homelessness.

By speaking directly to government agencies, engaging with the media, and developing evidence-based recommendations, Homelessness Australia aims to influence how Australia responds to one of its most urgent social challenges. The organization’s advocacy is grounded in the lived experience of people who have experienced homelessness, ensuring that real voices drive real change.

Strategic Advocacy to Influence National Policy

One of Homelessness Australia's core strengths is its ability to bring together data, frontline knowledge, and long-term strategy to drive systemic policy reform. Its advocacy efforts focus on both prevention and response—recognizing that homelessness is often the result of intersecting issues like poverty, mental health challenges, domestic violence, and housing unaffordability.

The organization’s policy agenda includes:

Increasing the supply of social and affordable housing

Strengthening tenancy rights and security

Enhancing income support systems

Supporting early intervention programs

Addressing housing discrimination and barriers to access

These priorities are not developed in isolation. They reflect the collective input of frontline providers, academics, people with lived experience, and sector stakeholders across Australia.

Building Coalitions and Sector Capacity

Beyond national advocacy, Homelessness Australia plays a central role in building the capacity of the homelessness sector itself. Through its work, organizations are better equipped to deliver services, respond to crises, and innovate in how they support individuals and families facing homelessness.

This is achieved through:

Policy forums and workshops

National advocacy campaigns

Data analysis and policy briefings

Research partnerships and commissioned reports

Guidance on sector coordination and collaboration

By investing in the sector’s collective knowledge and coordination, Homelessness Australia ensures that the response to homelessness is informed, cohesive, and impactful.

Key Areas of Focus for Homelessness Australia

Systemic Advocacy: Influencing national housing policy through government submissions, media campaigns, and strategic partnerships.

Lived Experience Inclusion: Ensuring people who have experienced homelessness are central to decision-making and public discourse.

Sector Coordination: Supporting collaboration between homelessness services across states and territories.

Education and Awareness: Promoting public understanding of homelessness and its root causes through communications and media engagement.

The Importance of a National Peak Body

A national peak body like Homelessness Australia is crucial because homelessness is not just a local problem—it’s a structural issue that requires national solutions. While local services provide essential support, national advocacy ensures that federal policies, funding, and frameworks reflect the real needs on the ground.

In times of crisis, such as natural disasters or economic downturns, the role of a national body becomes even more critical. Homelessness Australia advocates for emergency responses while keeping long-term goals in view, such as sustainable housing systems and inclusive social support networks.

Why Systemic Advocacy Matters

Unlike charity models that focus on individual acts of giving, systemic advocacy addresses the root causes of disadvantage. Homelessness Australia’s approach is holistic and grounded in justice, not charity. It pushes for:

Structural reform in housing markets

Long-term funding models for social services

Policy changes that protect the most vulnerable

This kind of advocacy challenges governments to go beyond short-term fixes and invest in real, enduring change.

Collaboration Across the Sector and Beyond

Another hallmark of Homelessness Australia’s approach is collaboration. The organization works closely with allied sectors, including:

Domestic and family violence services

Mental health and disability organizations

Youth and Indigenous housing networks

Faith-based and culturally specific service providers

By working across sectors, Homelessness Australia ensures that advocacy is inclusive, intersectional, and far-reaching.

The Future of Homelessness Advocacy in Australia

Homelessness Australia continues to evolve in response to new challenges and opportunities. Whether it's addressing the growing impact of climate change on housing stability, the legacy of the COVID-19 pandemic, or the urgent demand for First Nations-led housing solutions, the organization is committed to driving thoughtful, long-term reform.

Looking Ahead: Strategic Goals

Homelessness Australia has outlined several key objectives for the coming years:

Embed housing as a human right in Australian law and policy

Expand public investment in housing infrastructure

Reform federal-state homelessness funding agreements

Elevate the voices of people with lived experience in all policy decisions

Create national minimum standards for service delivery and outcomes

These goals are ambitious—but they reflect the urgency and complexity of the homelessness crisis. They also speak to a future in which every person in Australia has a safe, stable, and affordable home.

In Summary, Homelessness Australia is more than just an advocacy body—it is a force for national transformation. By championing policies that address inequality, coordinating the sector’s efforts, and staying grounded in the lived experiences of real people, the organization helps shape a future where homelessness is not an inevitability, but a solvable challenge.

FOODTECH QUEENSLAND

FoodTech Qld stands out as a dynamic event that converges the most innovative food manufacturing and technology solutions on the stunning Gold Coast. This gathering serves as a vibrant marketplace, fostering opportunities for collaboration and pushing the boundaries of sustainable transformation within the food industry. Attendees can expect to engage with a diverse range of exhibitors who represent the forefront of food science, ingredients, manufacturing software, packaging machinery, and processing equipment. 

As you navigate the exhibition floor, you will encounter the latest advancements in technology designed to meet the evolving needs of food manufacturers. This immersive experience not only showcases groundbreaking products but also offers live demonstrations, allowing you to see firsthand how these innovations can enhance your operations and streamline processes. The atmosphere is charged with creativity and forward-thinking, ensuring that you leave with fresh ideas and renewed confidence in the future of the industry.

Complementing the exhibition is a robust two-day conference program that delves into pressing topics shaping Australia’s food landscape. Esteemed subject matter experts will share insights on a variety of issues, ranging from farm gate practices to shelf-ready solutions. This conference serves as a platform for knowledge sharing, equipping attendees with the information necessary to navigate the complexities of the food supply chain.

Networking is a key feature of FoodTech Qld, providing ample opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders. Whether over drinks and canapés or during informal discussions, participants can forge valuable relationships in a relaxed setting, all against the backdrop of the sun-soaked Gold Coast. This blend of learning, innovation, and connection makes FoodTech Qld an unmissable event for anyone involved in food manufacturing.

In essence, FoodTech Qld is not just an event; it is a celebration of the future of food technology and manufacturing. It invites you to explore new possibilities, engage with thought leaders, and immerse yourself in the vibrant community that is shaping the industry today. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, this event promises to inspire and empower you to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Australian Opal Exhibition

The Australian Opal Exhibition: Showcasing Nature’s Rarest Gem

In the heart of Queensland’s stunning Gold Coast, a truly radiant event takes place each year that captivates gemstone professionals and jewelry enthusiasts alike — the Australian Opal Exhibition. Known internationally as one of the most prestigious trade fairs dedicated exclusively to opals and opal jewellery, this exhibition shines a global spotlight on Australia’s national gemstone and its profound role in the jewelry industry.

Organized and hosted by the Australian Opal Association, the event is held at Southport Sharks, a well-known venue that pairs business with leisure in one of Australia's most scenic destinations. Here, under one roof, the beauty of opals is celebrated in all their forms, from raw stones to finely crafted luxury pieces.

A Vibrant Platform for Australia’s Signature Gemstone

Diversity, Quality, and Craftsmanship on Display

Australia produces over 90% of the world’s opals, and the Australian Opal Exhibition serves as the premier stage to present this unique national treasure to a global audience. Attendees can explore a dazzling variety of opals — from ethereal white and black opals to the coveted boulder and crystal opals — each with its own story, pattern, and play of color.

The range of products featured at the event includes:

Polished opals and collector's stones

Loose opals for setting into jewelry

Fashion and fine opal jewellery

Pearls and mixed-material creations

Opal doublets, triplets, and carvings

This variety appeals to a broad segment of professionals in the gem and jewelry industry, including jewelers, designers, wholesalers, and retailers looking to expand their offerings with high-quality, ethically sourced Australian opals.

A Gathering Ground for Industry Professionals

Who Exhibits and Who Attends

The Australian Opal Exhibition is not a general consumer fair; it is a specialized B2B event focused on the professional community of the gem and jewelry world. Most exhibitors are experienced players in the opal industry, including:

Mine owners and operators

Wholesalers and rough stone suppliers

Custom and commercial jewelry designers

Opal processing and cutting professionals

Exporters and traders

On the other side, the primary attendees are:

International jewelry buyers and resellers

Boutique shop owners sourcing rare stones

Jewelry brands in search of unique centerpieces

Private collectors and high-end gemstone investors

This exclusive and targeted environment fosters meaningful business exchanges, new collaborations, and long-term partnerships — all grounded in a shared passion for the world’s most captivating gemstone.

Exploring the Full Spectrum of the Opal Industry

More Than Just a Gemstone Display

While the star of the show is the opal itself, the Australian Opal Exhibition also serves as an educational and networking platform for everything related to the opal industry. Visitors can learn about the full lifecycle of opals, from their geological formation to their final presentation in a luxury boutique.

Exhibitors often present services and insights related to:

Opal mining and sourcing

Gemstone cutting and grading

Stone treatments and certification

Jewelry manufacturing processes

Packaging, marketing, and distribution

These additional layers of expertise provide value for attendees who want a deeper understanding of the supply chain and wish to ensure ethical sourcing and exceptional quality in their purchases.

The Venue: Business Meets Lifestyle at Southport Sharks

Set against the coastal backdrop of Queensland’s Gold Coast, Southport Sharks offers a venue that perfectly blends functionality with comfort. With ample space, modern facilities, and hospitality services on-site, it’s a location well-suited for international exhibitions of this caliber.

Visitors benefit from:

On-site restaurants, bars, and cafes

Nearby accommodation options

Easy access to public transport and airports

A relaxed environment for both business and leisure

Furthermore, the venue’s location allows attendees to take advantage of one of Australia’s most iconic tourist destinations. After a productive day at the exhibition, guests can unwind at some of the Gold Coast’s renowned attractions.

A Destination Worth Visiting — Beyond the Exhibition

The Australian Opal Exhibition is not only a business event — it's also a great reason to visit one of Australia’s most scenic regions. The Gold Coast is famed for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and world-class culinary scene, making it the perfect backdrop for a professional event with leisure potential.

Top things to enjoy while in town include:

Surfers Paradise Beach and waterfront walks

Theme parks like Dreamworld and Sea World

Local art galleries and cultural hubs

Luxury spas and wellness centers

Fine dining and international cuisine

Combining professional networking with unforgettable travel experiences, the event offers value beyond the show floor.

Why the Australian Opal Exhibition Matters

The global jewelry market is constantly evolving, with customers seeking authenticity, rarity, and ethical sourcing more than ever. In this climate, Australian opals stand out for their natural beauty and traceable origin. By offering direct access to producers, designers, and experts, the Australian Opal Exhibition creates a transparent, high-trust environment for sourcing some of the world’s rarest gems.

This exhibition is a cornerstone for:

Promoting Australia’s global leadership in opal production

Strengthening the local opal economy and small miners

Educating the global market on opal diversity and value

Facilitating sustainable growth in the gemstone trade

It’s not just a showcase — it’s a mission-driven platform that supports both commerce and culture.

A Gem of an Event in Every Sense

The Australian Opal Exhibition offers an exceptional combination of business, education, and cultural immersion. With its focus on high-quality opals and opal jewellery, its strong ties to Australian identity, and its strategic location in the thriving city of Gold Coast, the event continues to draw global attention and praise.

Whether you're in the business of fine gems, looking to introduce a unique product line, or simply passionate about the beauty of natural stones, this exhibition is a must-attend. It's where the magic of Australia’s outback meets international luxury — and where the future of opal trade continues to be written, stone by dazzling stone.

Australian Jewellery Fair

The Australian Jewellery Fair is one of the most prominent events in the jewellery industry, offering a comprehensive platform for business owners, jewellers, designers, and industry professionals to connect, discover, and showcase the latest trends and innovations in jewellery and watches. This annual event is widely regarded as a must-attend for anyone involved in the jewellery trade, whether you're a retailer, wholesaler, designer, or manufacturer.

Held in a stunning venue, the fair brings together a wide range of exhibitors, from well-established brands to up-and-coming designers, showcasing a diverse selection of jewellery, watches, gemstones, tools, and packaging solutions. Attendees have the opportunity to explore thousands of products, discover new collections, and find exclusive items that can set their businesses apart. It's an excellent opportunity to stay ahead of trends and gain insights into the latest industry innovations.

One of the highlights of the fair is the chance to network with key players in the jewellery sector. Whether you're looking to establish new business relationships, find suppliers, or expand your professional network, the event creates ample opportunities for meaningful connections. Business owners and buyers can meet directly with manufacturers and designers, allowing for collaboration and the chance to negotiate exclusive deals and partnerships.

In addition to the business opportunities, the Australian Jewellery Fair strikes the perfect balance between work and leisure. The event features a range of fun activities designed to bring a relaxed, social element to the fair. One popular activity is the Putt Putt competition, where attendees can enjoy some friendly competition and unwind in between business sessions. It’s a great way to engage with others in the industry while enjoying a bit of fun and camaraderie.

The fair also offers a variety of catering options, ensuring that attendees are well-fed and comfortable throughout the event. From coffee and snacks to full meals, the catering options help create a pleasant experience for everyone, allowing visitors to focus on their business activities without interruption.

Overall, the Australian Jewellery Fair is not just about jewellery; it’s an all-encompassing experience that blends business, creativity, networking, and leisure. Whether you're looking to source new products, learn about the latest industry trends, or meet potential collaborators, this event provides everything you need to grow and succeed in the dynamic world of jewellery.

Australian Pharmacy Professional Conference and Trade Exhibition

The Australian Pharmacy Professional Conference and Trade Exhibition (APP) stands as the largest pharmacy conference in the Southern Hemisphere, drawing a diverse and vibrant group of up to 7,000 attendees each year. This premier event serves as a central hub for pharmacy owners, managers, pharmacists, intern pharmacists, pharmacy assistants, students, and industry professionals from across Australia and beyond. It provides an unparalleled opportunity for networking, professional development, and upskilling, making it a must-attend event for anyone involved in the pharmacy sector.

The APP conference attracts a wide range of participants, including retail managers, students, and suppliers from the pharmacy industry, all coming together to explore the latest developments in pharmacy practice, business management, and healthcare innovation. One of the primary draws of the event is its high-quality educational program, featuring world-renowned speakers and experts who offer valuable insights into current trends, emerging research, and new practices in pharmacy. From clinical pharmacy and medication management to the evolving role of pharmacists in patient care, the content at APP is designed to address both the practical and strategic aspects of the profession.

A key component of the event is its focus on Continuing Professional Development (CPD), with a comprehensive range of activities designed to enhance participants' knowledge and skills. These CPD sessions cover various aspects of pharmacy practice, from the latest pharmaceutical technologies to legislative changes affecting the industry. With tailored programs for different levels of experience, the conference ensures that both newcomers to the profession and seasoned professionals can benefit from meaningful, applicable learning.

In addition to the educational opportunities, APP offers a range of networking events, where attendees can meet with colleagues, peers, and potential collaborators. These informal and formal networking sessions are designed to foster connections that can lead to new partnerships, business opportunities, or simply a chance to share best practices with fellow professionals. Networking is one of the most valuable aspects of the event, allowing participants to build relationships with key players in the pharmacy sector, from suppliers to thought leaders and industry innovators.

The trade exhibition is another highlight of the conference, providing a platform for industry suppliers to showcase the latest products, services, and technologies in pharmacy. Attendees have the chance to explore new offerings, meet with product vendors, and discover cutting-edge solutions that can help improve patient care, streamline pharmacy operations, and enhance business management. With a vast array of exhibitors, the trade exhibition is a key part of the event, offering a comprehensive overview of the pharmacy landscape.

Overall, the Australian Pharmacy Professional Conference and Trade Exhibition is a dynamic and essential event for anyone involved in the pharmacy sector. By offering world-class education, invaluable networking opportunities, and access to the latest industry innovations, the conference serves as a catalyst for growth, knowledge-sharing, and professional advancement in pharmacy. Whether you're looking to expand your professional skills, connect with like-minded professionals, or discover the latest pharmacy technologies, APP is the ultimate destination for all pharmacy professionals.