FIA Conference 2027: Imagine What's Possible

For 50 years, FIA Conferences have brought the fundraising profession together to learn, connect, share ideas and look ahead to what’s next.

In 2027, we’re celebrating this incredible milestone on the Gold Coast. Across three days, you’ll discover the latest fundraising thinking, practical techniques and emerging trends, alongside fresh perspectives and bold ideas from across our profession.

Our 50th Conference theme, Imagine What’s Possible, is an invitation to look beyond today’s challenges and think bigger about the future of fundraising. Connect with the people shaping our profession, explore new approaches and leave with the knowledge, confidence and connections to create even greater impact.

The annual FIA Conference is an integral part of fundraiser's professional development education program and remains the largest gathering of fundraisers in the southern hemisphere. Each year the conference program is designed to ensure that fundraisers get exposure to both core and up-to-date fundraising techniques, disciplines, trends and ideas. It provides an opportunity to examine the present and future direction of the industry and is the peak event of its kind in Australia and Asia Pacific. 

50 years of FIA Conferences have helped shape fundraising. Now, imagine what’s possible for the next 50.

Pre 2011

2011-2020

2021-2026

Keynote Sessions

Why Attend? 

FIA Conference is designed to translate sector insight into stronger professional practice. Attending would give me focused time to learn, connect and consider how emerging ideas can be applied within our organisation.

  • Practical learning: Sessions will share useful frameworks, campaign experience and tools that I can adapt to current priorities rather than leaving the learning at the conference.
  • Sector insight: The program will explore changing donor expectations, new approaches and the issues shaping fundraising across Australasia, helping us make informed decisions and prepare for what comes next.
  • Connection with peers: I will be able to exchange ideas with fundraisers, leaders and partners from across the community, build relationships and identify people our team can continue learning from after the event.
  • Professional growth: The conference will challenge my thinking, broaden my perspective and build confidence in applying new approaches to my role.
  • Value for our organisation: The benefit extends beyond one attendee. I will return with recommended actions, useful resources and relevant contacts, and share the most valuable learnings with colleagues.

News Updates

Applications Now Open!

Myth Smashers is one of the Conference’s most popular sessions, giving new and emerging talent the opportunity to share their ideas, challenge conventional thinking and show the sector what they have to offer.

You should apply if you: 

  • Are currently a fundraising practitioner in a charitable organisation
  • Have never presented on the main stage at a conference before
  • Have a fundraising myth you are ready to challenge
  • Want to share your knowledge and ideas with the wider fundraising community

Think you have a myth worth smashing? 
Applications close Friday 30 October 2026 at 5.00pm AEDT. 

 

For more information and to complete your application for Myth Smashers:  

Expressions of Interest now open!

FIA is seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help deliver FIA Conference 2027 and support the smooth running of our largest annual event. Volunteers will be assigned a range of operational tasks throughout the Conference and expected to be flexible, adaptable and willing to take on roles as assigned.

If you’re keen to contribute your time, gain valuable event experience and be part of the team behind FIA Conference 2027, register your interest today!

While there may be opportunities during quieter periods to sit in on sessions, volunteering is not intended as a way to attend the Conference for free, and assigned responsibilities must always take priority.

Thursday, 25 February | 10:40 - 11:15

Connect with fellow New Zealand fundraisers at an exclusive, complimentary morning tea in the Exhibition Hall. Meet other Kiwis attending the conference, expand your professional network and share insights with peers from across Aotearoa.

Attendees must have Thursday Conference access included in their registration.

New for FIA Conference 2027: Healthcare Philanthropy Workshop

For the first time, FIA’s Healthcare Philanthropy Workshop will be presented as part of the Conference program.

Previously offered as a standalone virtual event, this focused workshop will bring healthcare fundraising professionals together in person to explore the distinct challenges and opportunities of philanthropy across hospitals, medical research and community health.

Places are limited and a separate ticket is required. The workshop can be booked on its own or added to an FIA Conference 2027 registration.

Sponsored by 

Date: Wednesday, 24 February 

Time: 8.30am-2.00pm

FIA Members: $450

Non-Members $585

Need your managers approval to attend? We can help! 

Download the "request for approval template"

Conference Partner

Principal Sponsor

Major Sponsors

Supporting Sponsors