The AVC26 Conference on the Gold Coast over 7-8 May 2026 will bring together leading voices from government, business and technology to address the issues shaping the daily work of valuers and auctioneers across Australia. Designed with practical application in mind, the program speaks directly to individual practitioners as well as those operating within larger firms, recognising that both face the same underlying pressures of regulation, technology, and shifting market expectations.

A key session, Small Business in the Digital Age, will be delivered by Mick Keogh, Deputy Commissioner at the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. His address will focus on how consumer law, digital platforms and data practices are reshaping compliance obligations. For individual valuers and auctioneers, this provides practical clarity on how to operate confidently in an increasingly online environment, avoiding risk while maintaining professional standards.

Economic conditions will be unpacked by Peter Munckton, Chief Economist at the Bank of Queensland, in Australia’s Economic Outlook. His analysis of inflation, interest rates and business confidence will help practitioners interpret the broader signals influencing asset values and buyer behaviour. Whether running a small practice or contributing within a larger firm, these insights support better pricing decisions, stronger client advice and more informed business planning.

A full copy of the AVC26 Conference program is available for download via the link below:

A strong valuation lens is provided through Different Asset Classes But Is There a Common Approach?, featuring Jonathan Marin CVAu of TCG Valuations, Catherine Asquith CVAu of Catherine Asquith Art Advisory and Nathan Gore-Brown of ZEV Integrations. This session explores how valuation methodologies shift across asset classes, from traditional art and collectables through to emerging categories such as electric vehicles. For practitioners, it offers a practical comparison of techniques and highlights how professional judgement must adapt across markets.

Technology remains a central theme of the AVC26 Conference program, with Thamasha (Tam) Galahena, Founder of Enble AI, presenting AI as an Enabler in a Changing Market. The session moves beyond theory to examine how artificial intelligence can be applied in practice, improving efficiency while reinforcing the importance of verification and professional oversight. This is particularly relevant for individual operators seeking to integrate new tools without compromising quality or independence.

A further valuation-focused discussion comes through If Artificial Intelligence Can Value Assets, Do We Need Valuers?, featuring Geoff Eaton CAAu of Gordon Brothers, Leticia Hoffman of The Fine Art Group and Tim Slattery of Slattery Auctions CAAu. This panel directly addresses the evolving role of the valuer, exploring where technology enhances capability and where human expertise remains critical. It provides a forward-looking perspective on how professionals can remain relevant, trusted and commercially competitive.

Beyond the formal program, the AVC26 Conference places strong emphasis on networking and professional connection. Structured events including the welcome reception, conference lunch, dinner and informal poolside drinks are designed to create genuine opportunities for engagement. These settings allow individual valuers and auctioneers to move beyond presentations and into meaningful conversations with peers, speakers and industry leaders, often leading to collaborations, referrals and long-term professional relationships.

For individual valuers and auctioneers in particular, this access to speakers and industry peers is significant. It provides the chance to test ideas, share experiences and build visibility within the profession in ways that are difficult to achieve in isolation. At the same time, those from larger practices benefit from broader exposure to perspectives across the sector, strengthening both strategy and leadership capability.

Overall, AVC26 Conference presents as a practical, insight-driven event that connects real-world challenges with informed perspectives. It offers valuers and auctioneers the opportunity not only to stay across change, but to actively position themselves within it, supported by both knowledge and professional community.

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Interested In Finding Out More?

If you’re interested in the AVC26 Conference, send an email to avc26.conference@avaa.com.au or telephone 1300 928 165.  You can also stay up to date by following AVAA on LinkedIn, X/Twitter and Facebook.
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