What is the ARB AUSTRALIA 2026 Conference?
The ARB Australia 2026 Conference is one of the most important annual gatherings in the arboriculture world – and this year, the ArboStar team is heading to Australia for the very first time to be part of it. Organized by Arboriculture Australia, the event brings together professionals, researchers, and industry newcomers to share the latest developments in tree care and urban forestry. This year's conference takes place in Hobart, Tasmania from 12–14 April 2026, with the Australian Tree Climbing Championships (ATCC) kicking things off from 10–12 April.
The conference theme for 2026 is "Enhancing Tree Biomechanics and Effective Canopy Management," reflecting a strong focus on the science and practice behind keeping trees safe and healthy in a rapidly changing environment.
Where Is the ARB AUSTRALIA 2026 Conference Held?
The main venue is the Hobart Convention & Exhibition Centre (Grand Chancellor Hotel), located at 1 Davey St, Hobart TAS 7000. Hobart is one of Australia's most distinctive cities – a compact, walkable waterfront destination with a thriving food scene, world-class museums like MONA, and the stunning backdrop of kunanyi / Mount Wellington. Attendees will find plenty to explore before and after conference sessions.
The conference officially opens on Sunday evening, 12 April, with the Welcome Function and ATCC Awards Presentations. The ATCC itself runs at a separate competition venue from 10–12 April. The Gala Dinner & Awards Night – where the National Industry Awards will be presented – takes place on Monday, 13 April.
Programme at a Glance
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Sunday, 12 April – Welcome Function & ATCC Awards Presentations
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Monday, 13 April – Conference Day 1 and Gala Dinner & Awards Night
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Tuesday, 14 April – Conference Day 2
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Wednesday, 15 April – Optional post-conference tours
How to Get to Hobart
Getting to Hobart is straightforward for both Australian and international attendees. Hobart Airport (HBA) receives regular direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and other major cities, with the airport located just 15 minutes from the city centre by taxi or rideshare. For those already in Tasmania, the Midland Highway connects the north and south of the island, making it easy to drive in. Public transport, taxis, and rideshare options are all readily available throughout Hobart. A number of hotels are located within walking distance of the Convention Centre, and Arboriculture Australia has partnered accommodation options available through the conference website.
Meet the Experts: ARB AUSTRALIA 2026 Speaker Lineup
The 2026 conference program features an impressive lineup of Australian and international speakers covering key topics such as urban forest management, tree risk and resilience, and the evolving role of arborists in a changing climate.
Highlighted Speakers
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Frank Rinn (Executive Director, ISA Germany) – internationally recognised for his work in tree safety inspection and evaluation
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Ondrej Kolarik (Co-founder, Adbian) – expert in tree biomechanics and tree stability software
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Prof. David Bowman (University of Tasmania) – Australian Research Council Laureate Fellow and Director of the transdisciplinary Fire Centre
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Prof. Timothy Brodribb (University of Tasmania) – Professor of plant physiology
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David Evans (Director, VALID) – presenting on tree risk assessment
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Matt Goff (Transmission Vegetation Manager, UAA Immediate Past President) – covering utility arborist topics
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Roxane Bandini-Maeder (CEO, Geoneon) – bringing technology perspectives to tree management
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Emma van Lint (Urban Forester, City of Launceston) – sharing insights on urban forestry practice
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Daryl Marshall (National Safety & Compliance Manager, Asplundh Australia)
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Martin Weaver (Coordinator for Arboriculture, City of Perth)
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Lawrence Kahn (Director, Utility Vegetation Management Institute, Tulane University Law School)
Australian Tree Climbing Championships (ATCC)
The Australian Tree Climbing Championships showcase technical excellence, safety, innovation, and physical capability, while also providing an informal but powerful learning environment. Running alongside the main conference, the ATCC delivers three days of elite competition, with the New Arborist of the Year event also taking place on Sunday, 12 April. Watching competitors tackle complex problems under pressure offers lessons that extend well beyond the competition arena – and makes for an unmissable spectacle for any arborist.
ARB AUSTRALIA 2026 Exhibition Floor
The exhibition floor is sold out – always a highlight of the event. With strong demand from suppliers, the trade zone will showcase the latest equipment, technology, and services, giving attendees direct access to the innovations shaping modern arboriculture. ArboStar will be among the exhibitors this year – stop by our stand to see how our platform is helping tree care businesses streamline operations, manage crews, and grow revenue.
Why ArboStar is a Game-Changer
Whether you run a small local crew or a large-scale arboriculture operation, ArboStar gives you the tools to work smarter:
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Simplifies Scheduling & Team Coordination – Keep projects on track with easy-to-use planning tools
- Enhances Financial Management – Better control over payments, invoicing, and expenses
- Strengthens Customer Relationships – Smooth communication and follow-ups through built-in CRM
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Improves Equipment & Resource Tracking – Optimise the use of tools and vehicles
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Supports Business Growth – Valuable business intelligence insights to help you scale
The ARB Australia 2026 Conference in Hobart promises to be one of the most comprehensive professional development programs the industry has seen. The year also includes specialist workshops with internationally recognised experts Frank Rinn and Ondrej Kolarik, the development of a local tree risk assessment method (AANZAA), and several Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ 3.0) courses being held around the country. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or early in your career, this is the event to be at in 2026.
You can check the full program at trees.org.au.
