Business Illawarra has a long‑standing track record of bringing together senior decision makers for our annual Federal Budget Luncheon. In 2026, we are evolving this flagship event into a high‑level Federal Budget & Future Economy Briefing, expanding the focus beyond the Budget itself to explore the broader economic forces shaping the future for businesses.

This briefing will convene senior business leaders from across the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands, including major employers, investors and industry stakeholders, for timely insights and informed discussion.

Designed for business leaders navigating an increasingly complex economic environment, the program will provide practical insights into:

  • The Federal Budget’s implications for business and industry
  • National  and global economic trends influencing local conditions
  • Housing economics and impacts on supply, workforce and productivity
  • Key economic policy settings and budget measures impacting Australian businesses
  • Economic outlook and indicators relevant to business confidence, investment and growth

This event will equip business leaders with the knowledge needed to understand current settings, anticipate change, and position their organisations for the future economy.

WHAT TO EXPECT

  • A plain English breakdown of the Federal Budget and tax settings with insights into what matters most for businesses, hearing from Adam Cole, Partner, Wollongong Business, Tax & Advisory Partner and  Kaylene Hubbard, Lead National Tax Advisory Partner, KPMG Mid-Market & Private
  • Real world market insights from Paul Mitchell, Founder and CEO of MitchCap, on how lenders track risk, demand and early indicators of economic change
  • A housing and economic update from keynote speaker Eliza Owen, including open Q and A
  • Business conditions and data driven insights drawn from across NSW and locally, presented by Business Illawarra
  • A forward looking on risks, reality and what to watch with leading economists Professor Martin O'Brien from the University of Wollongong.
  • High level networking and conversation with senior business and industry leaders

VIEW THE FULL AGENDA HERE. 

EVENT DETAILS:

  • Date:     Friday 15 May 2026
  • Time:     8:00am – 12pm

  • Venue:  The Grange (Princes Highway, 10 Kembla Grange Pl, Kembla Grange NSW 2526)


Secure Tickets


KEYNOTE SPEAKER



Eliza Owen

Housing Marketing Analyst


SPEAKERS

Kaylene Hubbard

Lead National Tax Advisory Partner, 

KPMG Mid-Market & Private

Adam Cole

Partner, Wollongong Business, 

Tax & Advisory Partner, KPMG Mid-Market & Private

Coralie McCarthy 

Director, Business Illawarra

Paul Mitchell
Chief Executive Officer, MitchCap

Professor Martin O'Brien 
Economist, University of Wollongong


SPONSoRED BY

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Join a connected network of local businesses shaping the future of the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands. Membership gives you access to influential events, advocacy, insights and opportunities to connect, collaborate and grow. Be part of a stronger, more resilient regional business community.

Contact the team today!