• Discover the conferences that should be on every CFO's radar in 2026
• Learn practical ways to prepare, engage, and follow up so you get real value from your time
• Explore how conferences can play a direct role in your career development in 2026
Much of a CFO's working life plays out in the boardroom or behind a desk. And when you're in the thick of the working week, the idea of slipping out of the office for a 2 day conference can feel laughable.
However, you know better than anyone that the CFO role is evolving, fast. AI, ESG, cybersecurity and supply chain risks are now requiring input from the finance team and these are challenges best addressed when you know how others in your industry are tackling them in real time.
That's why one of my most read blogs last year was my list of "Must-Attend Conferences for CFOs and Finance Leaders". As we enter the final quarter in the 2025 calendar year, I thought it was time to update that list with the conferences that should be on your radar for 2026, along with practical strategies to ensure you get maximum value from whichever events you choose to attend.
Why in-person conferences are more relevant than ever
If Covid taught us anything, it's that whilst online training and meet ups have their place, nothing can replace face to face. You simply can't build genuine professional relationships through a screen and those spontaneous conversations you have over coffee between sessions can lead to real partnerships, referrals and introductions that simply can't be replicated in the online environment.
Unlike online events, in which you're tempted to try to multitask or 'just sneak in a quick conference call' during lunch, in-person conferences give you permission to step away from the day to day, think strategically and focus on the long term.
Plus, conference organisers are having to work harder than ever to attract people to their events and this is great news for attendees as quality has never been better.
Tips for getting the most out of your attendance
Conferences go by fast. You look at the agenda and think there's plenty of time, but the days fill up and it's easy to leave feeling like you missed half of the sessions that interested you. A bit of prep can help you avoid that.
Registering early makes a difference. Popular workshops and smaller sessions often fill quickly, and being on the early list usually means you get programme updates and networking opportunities before everyone else.
Skim the agenda and circle a handful of sessions. Do it before you arrive, not in the middle of the buzz. Walking in with a plan keeps you from jumping between rooms and losing the thread of the day.
Bring a few questions with you. Not written speeches, just the things you want answered. When a keynote or panel touches on those points, you'll be ready to lean in and if you get the chance to ask, even better.
Don't underestimate the in-between moments. Coffee breaks, a chat before a session starts, the smaller evening gatherings. These are often where you pick up the most practical ideas, because people speak more openly when the setting is relaxed.
Lastly, keep notes. Nothing fancy, just the key points that struck you. A week later, when the event feels like a blur, those notes will remind you what to act on.
Upcoming Events for Your 2026 Calendar
World Finance Forum Sydney 2026
Location: Sydney
Date: 19 February 2026
Overview: World Finance Forum Sydney 2026 brings together senior finance leaders to explore the issues shaping the profession. The programme covers AI and automation, ESG value perception, the finance workforce, strategic FP&A and economic volatility, with insights from global speakers and perspectives from leading technology providers.
Find out more: https://events.futureforums.com/world-finance-forum-sydney
CA ANZ Elevate Your Impact Experience Conference 2026
Location: Online
Date: 12–13 March 2026
Overview: This conference is designed to help finance professionals grow the non-technical skills that define effective leadership today. Sessions explore areas such as inclusive leadership and resilience. The focus is on building the confidence and perspective needed to elevate your impact and shape your career.
Find out more: https://www.charteredaccountantsanz.com/learning-and-events/conferences-and-events/conferences
Gartner Finance Symposium/Xpo™ 2026
Location: Sydney
Date: 23–24 March 2026
Overview: The focus of this year's symposium is Autonomous Finance: Building Resilient, AI-Driven, Value-Centric Enterprises. The programme explores how CFOs can use AI, automation and insight to accelerate decisions, streamline processes and strengthen partnerships across the business.
Find out more: https://www.gartner.com/en/conferences/apac/cfo-finance-au/sessions
CA ANZ Audit Conference 2026
Location: Online
Date: 20 May 2026
Overview: This conference helps finance professionals stay up to date with fast-moving changes in accounting and audit. With technical updates and practical case discussions, it gives attendees the knowledge they need to stay compliant and adapt to new standards.
Find out more: https://www.charteredaccountantsanz.com/learning-and-events/conferences-and-events/conferences
The CA ANZ Accounting Conference 2026
Location: Online
Date: 21 May 2026
Overview: This symposium is designed for CFOs focused on continuous professional growth. It features sessions on the latest accounting standards, financial reporting updates, compliance requirements and the market dynamics that are shaping the role of today's finance leaders.
Find Out: https://www.charteredaccountantsanz.com/learning-and-events/conferences-and-events/conferences
CFO Magazine's CFO Symposium 2026
Locations and Dates: Melbourne, March 2026; Brisbane, May 2026; Auckland, June 2026
Overview: The CFO Symposium returns in 2026 as an annual gathering for senior finance leaders. Each event brings together CFOs and finance executives to explore the changing role of finance and the disruptive forces shaping business today. With opportunities for learning and connection, the symposium provides a forum to share perspectives and prepare for the future of financial leadership.
Find Out More: https://linktr.ee/CFOSeries
Questions to ask yourself before you book
What outcome do you want from your CPD events this year?
Which of the above are you already registered for?
How can you be more intentional about your professional development?
I'd love to hear your thoughts...
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