GET READY!
The Hunter Innovation Festival is back in 2025 and bolder than ever!
In its 23rd year, the festival gets you ready to dive into a world of possibilities as we explore the future of our region and beyond.
From cutting-edge technology to groundbreaking ideas, this year's festival is your chance to connect with the brightest minds, be inspired by world-class speakers, and discover how we can shape a brighter tomorrow, together.
25 SEPTEMBER 2025
festival tracks
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![A digital illustration depicting space exploration, featuring an astronaut floating, a satellite dish, a drone, and the Earth with a purple and blue color scheme.]()
Aerospace
Building the local aerospace industry and strengthening our sovereign capability.
The Hunter region is leading the way in creating an independent aerospace industry for Australia. See how our world-class manufacturing expertise is creating critical components and how commercial innovations are being adapted for defence applications, bolstering Australian industry.
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![Illustration of wind turbines, electrical substations, and a storm with lightning, sun, and windmill blades in a vibrant, stylized landscape.]()
Future Energy
The Hunter region is forging Australia's clean energy independence.
From pioneering green hydrogen production to innovative energy storage and advanced local manufacturing, we're transforming our industrial landscape to build a robust, sovereign clean energy future for the nation. Come see the projects, meet the innovators, and discover the immense opportunities in Australia's new energy powerhouse.
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![Digital illustration of a fireworks display over a cityscape, with a large orange missile, robotic figures, and icons of people and rockets, in a neon color scheme.]()
Advanced Manufacturing
Step into the future of production.
The Hunter is leading Australia's charge in Industry 4.0, transforming our industrial heartland into a hub for high-value, bespoke manufacturing. Discover how we're leveraging AI, robotics, and advanced materials to create sovereign capabilities and securing Australia's place on the global stage.
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![Illustration of a DNA helix, bacteria, pills, and a virus in a laboratory setting.]()
Health
A Healthier Future, Made in the Hunter
The Hunter is transforming patient care by integrating world-class research, clinical expertise, and cutting-edge HealthTech. Discover how local legends are accelerating the translation of discoveries into real-world solutions, pioneering digital health, precision medicine, and sustainable healthcare practices to build a healthier Australia for everyone.
Dream it
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Build It
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Grow it
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Dream it 〰️ Build It 〰️ Grow it 〰️
Meet Our First Keynote Speakers for 2025
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.
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 Your Festival Pass
Get Your Festival Pass
Tickets Are Selling Fast.
Don't Be Left Out.
Every year, there is one event that brings the entire Hunter innovation ecosystem together. On Thursday, 25 September, that event is the Hunter Innovation Festival. This is your single best opportunity to connect with the leaders, founders, and investors who are building the future of our region. But spots are limited, and with tickets selling faster than ever, the chance to be in the room is disappearing daily. Don't be the one hearing about it afterwards—secure your place today and ensure you're part of the conversation.
Presale closed - early bird registration now fully subscribed - thanks for your early support!
Choose your PASS
Ultimate Delegate Pass
$229
The complete festival experience from morning to night.
🎤 Full-day access to all keynote speakers and panel sessions.
🧑🤝🧑 Entry to the Innovation Expo hall to meet exhibitors.
☕ All-day catering, including morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea.
lanyard and official festival program.
🤝 Premium networking opportunities with industry leaders.
🌙 PLUS: Your all-inclusive ticket to the 'Festival After Dark' networking party.
Delegate Pass
$199
Your ticket to a full day of inspiration and connection.
🎤 Full-day access to all keynote speakers and panel sessions.
🧑🤝🧑 Entry to the Innovation Expo hall.
☕ Catering provided, including morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea.
lanyard and official festival program.
🤝 Networking opportunities with hundreds of professionals.
⭐ Eligible to purchase a 'Festival After Dark' Add-On ticket.
Student Pass
$49
Connect with the future of innovation at an accessible price.
🎤 Full-day access to all keynote and panel sessions.
🧑🤝🧑 Entry to the Innovation Expo hall.
☕ Catering provided, including morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea.
🤝 The perfect opportunity to connect with potential employers and mentors.
⭐ Eligible to purchase a 'Festival After Dark' Add-On ticket.
(Note: A valid undergraduate or TAFE student ID must be presented upon entry).
after dark add-on
$49
Available only to festival pass holders. Don't let the conversation end!
🥂 Entry to our exclusive networking party at the George Darby Hotel (5 PM - 8 PM).
🍢 A selection of delicious canapés served throughout the evening.
💬 A relaxed setting to connect with speakers, delegates, and VIPs.
🤝 The ideal opportunity for high-value networking after the main event.
(This ticket can only be purchased in conjunction with a Delegate or Student Pass).
Igniting Innovation Together
We extend our deepest gratitude to our invaluable festival sponsors, whose generous support fuels the engine of innovation and makes this extraordinary community event possible.
Sponsor the Hunter Innovation Festival.
Partner with the Hunter's most exciting celebration of innovation, science, and creativity and connect your brand with a forward-thinking, engaged, and influential audience.
To receive our official Sponsorship Prospectus and discuss how we can tailor a partnership to meet your objectives, please get in touch today.
Location
The Hunter Innovation Festival 2025 will be 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
What does the "Energy of the Future" look like? We want to see it! Hunter primary students, enter our art prize to win $500 cash and your design on a tee. School prizes up for grabs! Enter by July 31.