2026 State Conference

22nd & 23rd April 2026 | Rydges Resort, Hunter Valley

Proud Platinum Conference Partner

Gold Conference Partner

Silver Conference Partner

The IPWEA NSW & ACT annual State Conference is one of the largest public works events in NSW and the ACT. Delegates will have the chance to engage in technical streams, inspiring keynotes, thought-provoking panel sessions, and informative presentations by Local and State Government. Numerous networking opportunities will be available, along with exhibitors showcasing the latest advancements in civil engineering and public works technology. The event concludes with the highly anticipated Engineering Excellence Awards Gala Dinner, providing an opportunity to celebrate and recognise the outstanding achievements within the profession.

See why people like Mark Wood has attended the State Conference for over 20 years.

Hear from Likeminded Professionals

The 2026 State Conference provides the opportunity for our members to share their expertise and experiences by submitting a technical paper on a recent project or development they have completed, and presenting on this paper at our 2026 State Conference.

View Past Papers

Preliminary Program Now Available

The 2026 State Conference will feature over 50 compelling presentations, including inspiring keynotes, thought-provoking panels, and engaging technical stream sessions.

See the Preliminary Program

Technical Stream Sessions

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial Intelligence

Circular Economy

Circular Economy

Road Maintenance

Road Maintenance

Bridge Projects

Bridge Projects

Road Safety

Road Safety

Innovation

Innovation

Asset Management

Asset Management

Women in Public Works

Women in Public Works

Project Management

Project Management

Resilience

Resilience

Development Engineering

Development Engineering

Young IPWEA

Young IPWEA

Municipal Engineering Foundation 4 Ball Ambrose Tournament

The Municipal Engineering Foundation is introducing a golf day to take place on the Friday after the 2026 State Conference. The Municipal Engineering Foundation 4 Ball Ambrose Golf Tournament will take place at Hunter Valley Golf Club located at Rydges Resort Hunter Valley where the State Conference will take place, tickets include a buffet lunch.

Golf Day Partnered by

Visit the Hunter Valley

The 2026 State Conference will be held in the heart of the Hunter Valley, one of NSW’s most iconic regional destinations. Known for its rolling vineyards, gourmet food, and picturesque landscapes, the Hunter Valley offers more than just professional development. With the conference taking place during the week, delegates can extend their stay to explore world-class wineries, take a scenic hot air balloon ride, unwind at a day spa, or enjoy a weekend of fine dining and local hospitality.

See More About The Hunter Valley

Countless Networking Opportunities

Networking Evening

The conference will include a networking evening at the end of the first day, providing attendees an informal opportunity to network and discuss the days topics and engage with exhibitors over beverages and canapés.

Engineering Excellence Awards Gala Dinner

The conference will conclude with the highly anticipated Engineering Excellence Awards Gala Dinner. An opportunity to recognise projects of excellence as well as exemplary leaders within the public works profession.

2026 Engineering Excellence Awards Categories

Best Public Works Project (Projects Less Than $1.5M)

Best Public Works Project (Projects Less Than $1.5M)

Best Public Works Project (Projects Between $1.5M - $5M)

Best Public Works Project (Projects Between $1.5M - $5M)

Best Public Works Project (Projects Greater Than $5M)

Best Public Works Project (Projects Greater Than $5M)

New or Improved Techniques

New or Improved Techniques

Excellence in Water Supply & Wastewater

Excellence in Water Supply & Wastewater

Excellence in Asset Management

Excellence in Asset Management

Excellence in Road Safety

Excellence in Road Safety

Excellence in Environment & Sustainability

Excellence in Environment & Sustainability

Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion

Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion

Excellence in Project & Portfolio Management

Excellence in Project & Portfolio Management

The David Abbott Award

The David Abbott Award

For Emerging Leaders

Public Works Leader of the Year

Public Works Leader of the Year

Partners & Exhibitors

The 2026 State Conference will feature over 40 industry suppliers, showcasing the latest product innovations and live demonstrations in the bustling exhibition hall.

There are limited partnership opportunities available, with all exhibitor booths now sold!

Find Out More About Partnerships

See the 2026 Conference Partners & Exhibitors

Platinum Partner

Gold Partner

Silver Partner

Satchel Partner

Coffee Lounge Partner

2026 Engineering Excellence Awards Partners

Technical Stream Session Partners

2026 State Conference Exhibitors

Registered Training Organisation - 90174

© 2026 IPWEA (NSW)

All prices are in Australian Dollars ($AUD)