Speakers 2026 BEAQ State Conference

Speakers

The BEAQ State Conference 2026 brings together educators, industry leaders, academics and professionals who are passionate about building business futures. Across three days, delegates will hear from keynote speakers, workshop facilitators, session presenters and industry hosts who bring practical insight, fresh ideas and real-world relevance to the program.

Featured Keynote Speakers

Our keynote speakers bring big-picture thinking, real-world perspective and future-focused insight to the conference program.

Julia Spicer OAM

Julia Spicer OAM is a regional entrepreneur, governance leader and co-founder of The Connection Table, a national platform connecting and supporting future leaders. With more than 20 years of experience across business, government and community, Julia is known for creating practical pathways that help young people build confidence, capability and meaningful connections for the future of work.

Based in Goondiwindi, Queensland, Julia brings big-picture thinking, real-world insight and an energising perspective on leadership, opportunity and regional Australia. Awarded an Order of Australia Medal, she is a respected voice on connection, governance and preparing the next generation to thrive.

Kate Osborne

Kate Osborne is a business leader, global thinker and influential voice on leadership, connection and opportunity. As Director of KOKO Matrix, Kate draws on a remarkable career spanning entrepreneurship, business coaching and international experience to inspire others to lead with confidence and purpose.

A graduate of The University of Queensland, Kate has travelled to more than 60 countries, was mentored by a Swiss millionaire at age 21, and became the first female Platinum Coach in one of Australia’s fastest-growing business coaching franchises. A former share owner of two Flight Centre stores, Kate has been recognised with the Westpac Most Outstanding Woman in Business, the 2025 Best Connector Award, and as a Voice for Leadership by the Office for Women and Femeconomy.

Day 1 Workshop & Masterclass Presenters

Day 1 presenters will lead practical workshops and specialist sessions designed to support deeper professional learning and classroom-ready takeaways.

Day 2 Session Speakers

Day 2 features a diverse line-up of session speakers across Business, Accounting, Legal Studies, VET and broader enterprise learning. Explore the presenters by reviewing the program.

Session A

Session B

Session C

Session D

Day 3 Industry Hosts & Venues

Day 3 takes learning beyond the conference venue, with industry partners and host organisations opening their doors to provide delegates with real-world insight into business operations, workplaces and career pathways.