Full 2026 Conference Program
Friday 4th September, 2026
​
A comprehensive professional development schedule designed to bridge global breakthroughs with Australian project leadership.
08:00 AM
09:00 AM
Conference Registration & Networking
10:00 AM
10:15 AM
Opening Ceremony
10:15 AM
10:30 AM
IPMA & ICB Introduction
11:20 AM
12:30 PM
12:30 PM
01:15 PM
Lunch
01:30 PM
02:00 PM
The future of work: how Assistants, Agentic AI and applications will shape workforce productivity with Kieran Hagan
2:50 PM
3:05 PM
Afternoon Tea
04:15 PM
05:00 PM
Closing Ceremony & IPMA Australia 2026 Awards
05:00 PM
06:00 PM
Networking Drinks
Keynote: Josh Horneman
Seamless AI integration that keeps your team central, data secure, and ROI compounding
Josh Horneman
Co-Founder, HOWLL
Howll is a private AI operating system that gives business leaders what they actually want: seamless AI integration without disrupting what works or risking IP or sensitive data.
​
We help enterprises transition to AI-first operations by:
-
Deploying AI agents directly into existing workflows
-
Supporting your team's expertise while automating routine tasks
-
Providing a powerful Local GPT environment
-
Delivering complete data control with NVIDIA-powered local infrastructure
-
Providing measurable ROI through proven 7-phase methodology
​
Unlike public AI platforms, consulting firms, or enterprise AI plug-ins, we don't just deploy AI, we build AI business intelligence that compounds over time.
Your team stays central. Your data stays yours. Your competitive advantage grows. Transform your business at your team's pace, not technology's timeline.
​
Contact us to discover how Howll's AI operating system can seamlessly integrate into your operations, while preparing your business for an AI-first future.
AI-POWERED PM FLIP: PROTOTYPING SOLUTIONS TO YOUR TOUGHEST CHALLENGES
No-Code AI Revolution Workshop
This interactive workshop is designed to empower you, our seasoned project professionals, to harness AI as a transformative force in both project delivery and ongoing education. In a world where AI is reshaping how we manage risks, streamline workflows, and upskill teams, this session turns theory into action.
Drawing from real-world insights like AI tools reducing project overruns by 35% and enhancing learning retention in PM training programs, we'll challenge you to "flip" your biggest PM pain points into opportunities. This isn't just a brainstorm, it's a prototype playground that builds your confidence in AI integration while generating valuable research for IPMA Australia.
We'll capture key ideas to inform future certification pathways, resources, and thought leadership, ensuring your contributions drive the profession forward long after the event.
how can ai shape workforce productivity
The future of work: how Assistants, Agentic AI and applications will shape workforce productivity.
AI has already made entry points onto your desktop. You’ll see if in office tools, web browsers, phone apps, ERP platforms and dedicated solutions. Awareness of AI is at an all time high… but for all this advance, productivity for Australian professionals remains elusive.
Join this session to hear an IBM technology perspective on the journey so far and what the next wave will look like. See how you can create a simpler, better work experience for people with less time on mundane tasks, and more time assisting outcomes. The future of work is happening now and is in your control.
Kieran Hagan
Technology Leader, IBM Australia
AI-Driven Innovation in Sustainable Project Delivery
From Strategy to Impact
Building on the conference's focus on AI as a catalyst for meaningful innovation, this panel dives into how AI is reshaping sustainable project delivery across Australia's energy, infrastructure, and digital sectors. We'll explore ethical integration, scalable strategies, and alignment with IPMA standards. Our challenge to you: "Pilot one AI sustainability tweak in your current project. What's the measurable impact you aim for?" This session will inspire you to lead with purpose, delivering projects that not only succeed but also drive lasting environmental and business value.
Meet the Panel
Josh Horneman – Co‑Founder, HOWLL
Daniela Kellett - Director, Powering ProjeX
Ryan Chaffey - Head of ePMO, Divisional Manager, Yarra Valley Water
David Myall
General Manager – Practices, DWS
Young Crew Panel: The Future of PM Leadership
In project management, qualifications open doors but real progress comes from relationships, practical insight, and knowing how to position yourself in a competitive field. This session bridges the gap between study and industry by connecting you directly with experienced professionals who’ve walked the path.
We’ll tackle the questions on everyone’s mind: How do I get my foot in the door? What do project professionals actually do day-to-day? Should I let AI write my CV or when should I avoid it? How do I present myself confidently without sounding generic? And crucially, how can internships, graduate programs, mentorship, and smart networking accelerate your start?
​
Expect candid stories, no-nonsense advice, and a forward-looking challenge: “By the end of this conference, commit to one networking action that could change your career trajectory - what will yours be?”