Climate impact and power of AI among program highlights for 2025 Outdoor Industry Summit

The highly anticipated 2025 Outdoor Industry Summit, taking place in Canberra from 8th –11th July 2025 will deliver a bold program that brings together national leaders, trailblazers, and innovators from across the outdoor recreation, education, tourism, and therapy sectors.

Presented by Outdoors NSW & ACT, this year's Summit incorporates the NatCORR Risk & Resilience Outdoor Symposium, a one-day deep dive into climate adaptation, risk mitigation, and sector resilience. With multiple breakout sessions, keynote presentations, and powerful panel discussions, the Summit offers attendees an opportunity to shape the future of Australia’s outdoor industry.

Lori Modde, Chief Executive Outdoors NSW & ACT notes “this Summit is more than a gathering -it’s a strategic moment to accelerate the growth, safety, and recognition of our industry. Whether you're a program provider, land manager, researcher, or policymaker, there’s something in this program that will challenge, inspire, and equip you for the future.”

Program Highlights Include:

• Dr Grant Lynch (University of Sydney) – delivering a keynote on the science of climate impacts and planning for outdoor sector resilience

• Alex Mendis – exploring the transformative power of AI for operations, planning, and outdoor user experience

• Ryan Smith (Access Agency) – tackling barriers to inclusion in “The Great Outdoors, Accessible to All?”

• WorkSafe – sharing what inspectors look for and how outdoor operators can elevate workplace safety

• Storytelling in Nature with Garry Watson – revealing how meaningful narratives can deepen outdoor experiences

• Land Management Update – featuring representatives from NPWS, Forestry Corporation, and Crown Lands

• Duke of Edinburgh Award Panel, Financial Planning for Outdoor Workers, MTB Manifesto, Nature Play, Child Safe Standards, AAAS Reviews, and much more…

The Summit also features the Annual Industry Awards, Pinnacle Leadership Program Graduation, and dedicated networking opportunities to foster collaboration across disciplines.

In an exciting addition to this year’s program, Medibank Private will be offering free skin checks for all registered attendees. With so many professionals working outdoors year-round, this initiative supports the long-term health and wellbeing of the sector’s workforce.

Tickets are available now, with options for full access or day passes.

Register and view the full program at: www.outdoorsnswact.org/2025summit