2025 Hunter Innovation Festival bolder than ever!
In its 23rd year, the festival explored a world of possibilities For the future of our region and beyond.
From cutting-edge technology to groundbreaking ideas, this year's festival WAs your chance to connect with the brightest minds, be inspired by world-class speakers, and discover how we can shape a brighter tomorrow, together.
2025 Festival MC
James O’Loghlin is one of Australia's most highly regarded corporate speakers, comedians, and media personalities will guiding and delighting our festival audience.
You may know him best as the charismatic host of over 300 episodes of ABC TV's beloved The New Inventors, or perhaps from his engaging programs on ABC Local Radio.
With deep connections with Hunter entrepreneurs over the past 10 years, having been a entrepreneur in Residence at 1804 and working with many organisations in the Hunter
CEO and Co-Founder of Allegro Energy, Prof. Thomas Nann shares his radical thoughts on how breaking free from incrementalism will help solve the climate crisis.
Tech founder Vu Tran demystifies defence, revealing why building our sovereign capability is no longer a choice—it's a critical national necessity.
Prof. Renee Goreham will be sharing her leading edge research that is breathing new life into cancer and infection screening.
Australia stands at an economic crossroads. Professor Roy Green unpacks how with productivity flatlining and our economic complexity slipping, the old models are no longer enough. But within this challenge lies a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
2025 Keynote Speakers
2025 Speakers
+60 Speakers at the festival in 2025
Dive deep into a curated program of compelling keynotes, interactive workshops, and panel discussions with the Hunter's brightest minds. Each session is designed to deliver actionable insights, spark new connections, and equip you with the tools to be a part of the change. Explore the schedule and choose the sessions that will ignite your own innovation.
Sessions that build our future
Photo Gallery
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Photo Gallery ~
Igniting Regional Prosperity
Hunter Innovation Festival Roadshow
Join the Hunter Innovation Festival Regional Roadshow, a six-week journey leading up to the main event! This isn't just about spreading the word; it's our commitment to deepening connections and fostering real change across every LGA in the Hunter. We're bringing together the right people to tackle local challenges and unlock new economic opportunities. Be part of the conversation, influence shared initiatives, and help shape our region's future.
Get Involved
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Get Involved 〰️
Startup Alley: Discover Tomorrow's Innovations Today.
Pew! Pew! Pew! Fast Ideas. Big Impact
Festival After Dark: Network, Celebrate and Connect.
Your Next Breakthrough is Just One Conversation Away.
This is your moment to tap into a wealth of knowledge. What is the single most important question you need answered to move forward?
The concept is simple but powerful: we connect you, the innovator, with a seasoned professional for a confidential, focused, 20-minute, one-on-one session. It’s a safe space to ask the tough questions, be vulnerable about a challenge, and get direct, honest feedback without a sales pitch or a hefty price tag.
Welcome to a different kind of Festival
WE BELIEVE in the power of together
A power rooted in three simple actions: Connect. Learn. Share.
WE DECLARE this a SAFE SPACE
A judgment-free zone where kindness is our language and you are free to be your most authentic self. All are welcome.
WE ARE an escape from the market
There are no price tags here. No pitches. This is a NO-SALES gathering. We trade in ideas, smiles, and skills—not commerce.
WE CHAMPION a culture of GIVING
We ask, “What can I offer?” before “What can I get?” Generosity is our currency.
WE ARE ALL ARCHITECTS of a STRONGER COMMUNITY
We build bridges, not walls. We forge bonds of friendship and support that ripple outwards.
WE STAND for lifting others
We are committed to making this experience accessible and to actively SUPPORTING our UNDER-SERVED neighbours.
This is our promise to each other.
Now, let’s make some joy!
Location
The Hunter Innovation Festival 2025 was held at the iconic Newcastle City Hall, a stunning heritage building located in the heart of the city.
Getting Here
Newcastle City Hall is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus routes stopping nearby. The Newcastle train station is also a short walk away. Discover all your travel options here. Innovation is for everyone, that’s why this venue has detailed accessibility options her to make you feel welcome.
Accommodation
A range of accommodation options offering a discount to Hunter Innovation Festival delegates are available in close proximity to Newcastle City Hall, from hotels to serviced apartments.
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To book your discounted rate, please follow the steps below:
1. Visit website: Five-Star Hotel in Newcastle CBD | Crystalbrook Kingsley
2. Select your desired dates
3. Enter the promo code: HIF
4. Choose your rate from the 24th
to 29th of September 2025.
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To book your discounted rate, please follow the steps below:
1. Visit website: Quest Newcastle
2. Select your desired dates
3. Enter the promo code: HUNTERIF25
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To book your discounted rate, please follow the steps below:
1. Visit website: Quest Newcastle West
2. Select your desired dates
3. Enter the promo code: HUNTERIF25
Festival News
