Sarah Abood
The FAAA has unveiled the program for its flagship Congress 2026, bringing together leading voices in technology, financial advice, business leadership, and professional practice for three days of learning and collaboration.
To be held from 24 to 26 November at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the FAAA Congress will unpack the theme “Explore”, aiming to equip financial advisers with practical strategies, technical expertise and fresh thinking to help navigate an evolving advice profession.
FAAA CEO Sarah Abood said this year’s program had been built around the issues shaping the future of financial advice.
“Congress is where Australia’s advice profession comes together to explore what’s next. Whether it’s technology, regulation, business strategy or client engagement, every session has been designed to provide practical insights advisers can take back into their businesses.
“Our profession continues to evolve at pace. Congress gives advisers the opportunity to hear from industry leaders, challenge their thinking, learn from their peers and leave better equipped for the opportunities ahead.
“Just as importantly, Congress provides the chance to reconnect with colleagues from across Australia. Those conversations and shared experiences are one of the things that make this event so valuable each year”, said Abood.
The program features five keynote plenary sessions alongside specialist workshops and more than 20 technical breakout sessions across four learning streams – Develop, Strategise, Navigate and Expand – covering everything from regulation and compliance through to business growth, client relationships and practice innovation.
Key sessions include:
- Dr Jordan Nguyen, internationally recognised inventor and engineer, opening Congress with a keynote exploring how curiosity, innovation and emerging technologies are reshaping what’s possible
- The FAAA leadership team, including David Sharpe CFP, Michelle Veitch CFP, Sarah Abood, Phil Anderson and Andrea Forbes, providing delegates with an update on the evolving regulatory landscape and the future direction of the profession
- Four specialist workshops focused on sustainable business success, commercial realities for advice firms and collaborative idea sharing
- A closing keynote featuring trailblazing Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Michelle Payne, in conversation with Emmy Award-winning journalist Sara James, sharing lessons in resilience, leadership and achieving success against the odds.
Congress will also feature extensive networking opportunities, technical workshops and CPD-accredited sessions, providing advisers with practical tools to strengthen their businesses and better serve clients.
On the final evening of Congress at the gala dinner, the FAAA will recognise and celebrate the best in financial advice with the FAAA Awards.
Early bird registrations are now open, with discounted pricing available until 30 September. FAAA members can register for $1,305 while non-members can attend for $2,695.
For more information and to register, visit the FAAA Congress 2026 – Financial Advice Association Australia