700 delegates from across Australia and around the world gathered in Melbourne for AGIC 2026 to explore the issues shaping the future of the grain industry.
Under the theme Thriving Today, Resilient Tomorrow, this year’s conference delivered two days of discussion on global markets, trade, geopolitics, food security, energy, innovation and leadership, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in navigating an increasingly complex operating environment.
Opening the conference, GTA Chair Ole Houe reflected on the challenges facing industry while highlighting the strength of Australia’s grain supply chain and the value of industry working together to deliver practical outcomes. A key focus of his address was the proposed changes to phosphine use. Ole outlined GTA’s leadership in coordinating an industry-wide response to pursue practical, evidence-based solutions that maintain both workplace safety and the efficiency of Australia’s grain supply chain.
Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the Hon Julie Collins MP, addressed delegates on the challenges facing Australian agriculture, including geopolitical uncertainty, climate variability and changing global trade dynamics. During the conference, the Minister officially launched GTA’s Grain Storage Assets and Management Standard (GSAMS) Scheme, recognising the collaboration between industry and government in strengthening Australia’s Self-Regulatory Framework.
The conference program featured leading Australian and international speakers who examined the economic, geopolitical and market forces shaping the grain industry. HSBC Chief Economist, Australia, New Zealand and Global Commodities, Paul Bloxham, explored the resilience of the global economy amid ongoing uncertainty. While Andrew Henderson (Agsecure) challenged delegates to consider Australia’s preparedness for future food security risks and the importance of industry and government working together to build resilient supply chains.
Chief Market Analyst Karen Braun (Zaner Ag Hedge) provided delegates with insights into the trends expected to shape global grain and oilseed markets in 2026/27. This included the growing influence of renewable fuels on agricultural demand. Delegates also heard valuable market perspectives from speakers representing Vietnam and India, providing insights into customer expectations and opportunities across two of Australia’s key export markets.
The conference concluded with an inspiring keynote address from Paralympian Curtis McGrath OAM, whose personal story of resilience, leadership and determination provided a fitting close to the event. Reflecting on his recovery after losing both legs while serving in Afghanistan, McGrath shared powerful lessons on overcoming adversity, supporting others through challenging circumstances and maintaining purpose in the face of uncertainty.
Beyond the conference sessions, delegates had numerous opportunities to strengthen industry connections through a range of networking events, including the HFW Women in Grain Breakfast, the AGIC Mentor/Mentee Breakfast Exchange, the Biotechnology Networking Breakfast and the Young Professionals Networking Event, hosted by GTA’s Five Under 30 program with the support of GrainGrowers. Delegates also came together at the Welcome Reception, proudly sponsored by Port of Melbourne, before the conference concluded with the CBH Gala Dinner, where industry colleagues celebrated another successful AGIC and enjoyed entertainment from comedian Kitty Flanagan.
AGIC 2026 once again demonstrated the value of bringing the grain industry together to share knowledge, strengthen relationships and prepare for the opportunities and challenges ahead.
