Voices from the Bush Conference 2026

Stronger Together - Creating Change

Set against the stunning backdrop of Central Australia, Voices from the Bush 2026 returns to Alice Springs with a sharper focus on delivery, outcomes and lasting impact. This year’s theme, “Stronger Together - Creating Change,” reflects a collective commitment to move beyond discussion and demonstrate how real progress is being made across indigenous communities.

This conference remains a dedicated space for open, honest dialogue but with a renewed emphasis on what has changed, what is working, and what must happen next to strengthen water security, equity and sustainability in rural, remote and very remote Australia. Delegates will explore the practical implementation of key reforms, community-led solutions, intergenerational leadership, and cross-sector partnerships that are achieving measurable results on the ground.

With First Nations leadership woven throughout the program, Voices from the Bush 2026 elevates the experiences and expertise of Traditional Owners, operators, community leaders, researchers, industry practitioners and government partners. Together, we will examine outcomes from recent initiatives, share hard-won lessons, and highlight new approaches that are reshaping water services, governance and community resilience.

Bringing together those working on the frontline with those influencing policy and investment, this event is designed to turn insights into action. Voices from the Bush 2026 will help set the direction for a more just, secure and sustainable water future - one built on partnership, accountability and a shared commitment to create meaningful and enduring change. 

Program

Call for papers closing on 10 April 2026.
Submit your abstract or workshop/panel suggestion here:

We want to hear from you
As we begin planning our next conference under the theme Stronger Together - Creating Change, we invite you to share how you’ve continued the important conversations and work sparked at the 2024 Voices from the Bush conference within your organisation and community.
Your insights will help us understand how the momentum from Voices has carried forward, and will play a valuable role in shaping the conversations, priorities and impact of our next event.

Please note that the start and end times of the social functions are subject to change.  

Registration

Registrations will open in 2026.

All registration types include:
- All day catering on Wednesday, 16 September and Thursday, 17 September.
- Welcome Reception on Tuesday, 15 September.
- Conference dinner on Wednesday, 16 September.

Sponsorship
To find out about sponsorship opportunities, contact:
Troy Waite, Partnerships and Sponsorships Manager | P: 02 9467 8426  | E: twaite@awa.asn.au 

Not a member?
Join a community of almost 5,000 individual and 500 corporate members driving a sustainable water future through education, engagement, and connection. If you wish to learn more about AWA's membership benefits or join online, visit our website or contact membership@awa.asn.au.

For more information about Voices from the Bush contact:
EVENT:
Laura Steffan, Senior Event Manager | Ph: 02 9467 8408| E: LSteffan@awa.asn.au 

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:
Troy Waite, Partnerships and Sponsorships Manager | P: 02 9467 8426  | E: twaite@awa.asn.au