The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) has opened registrations for its 2026 State Conference, to be held under the theme ‘Freight Never Stops’.
For this year’s event, to be held from 22-24 March at the Silverwater Resort, San Remo, the VTA is calling on transport operators and supply chain leaders to secure their places early for one of the most important industry events of 2026.
The VTA said that with Victoria’s freight task projected to double by 2050, the 2026 conference theme “reflects the unrelenting pace of demand and the growing operational, regulatory, and workforce strains confronting the sector”.
This year’s conference program will explore the complex environment in which operators balance rising costs, efficiency pressures, customer expectations, and the need for sustainable, long-term productivity.
VTA CEO, Peter Anderson, said that as freight volumes continue to accelerate, industry collaboration and informed decision‑making are more important than ever.
“The challenges facing our sector aren’t easing — they’re intensifying,” Mr Anderson said.
“Operators are dealing with unprecedented pressure on margins, greater regulatory scrutiny, and increasing expectations around safety, compliance, and service delivery. The freight task keeps growing, and our industry must grow stronger with it.”
The conference will bring together senior leaders from transport, government, and key policy and regulatory agencies to examine the major issues shaping the future of freight, including infrastructure, intermodal connectivity, proposed Heavy Vehicle National Law reforms, modern industrial frameworks, sustainability strategies, and the need for a skilled, stable workforce.
Peter Anderson said productivity remains central to industry survival as operators face cost escalation and rising complexity across the supply chain.
“Productivity improvements are no longer optional — they are fundamental to keeping businesses viable,” he said.
“This conference will equip operators with strategies to lift efficiency through technology, innovation, infrastructure, and practical regulation that supports rather than hinders safe operations.”
With essential infrastructure such as major corridors and terminals under increasing strain, and as new intermodal capacity comes online, Peter Anderson said it is vital that assets are integrated effectively and supported by long‑term planning.
“Our freight network relies on infrastructure that is reliable, efficient, and fit for purpose,” he said.
“A coordinated approach to planning and investment is essential if we are to keep goods moving safely and cost‑effectively as demand grows.”
Workforce pressures also remain at the front of mind, with demand outpacing supply and skill shortages affecting capability across the sector, the Association said.
“For freight to keep moving, we need a workforce that is respected, supported, and sustainable,” Anderson said.
“Developing talent pathways and strengthening industry capability will be essential priorities in 2026 and beyond.”
The VTA State Conference will provide members and stakeholders with the insight, analysis, and collaboration needed to navigate these intersecting challenges while contributing to a stronger, more resilient freight industry.
“Our State Conference is a strategic investment — in your business, your people, and the future of the industry,” Anderson said.
“I strongly encourage operators, partners, and stakeholders to register early and take an active role in shaping the future of freight.”
The VTA State Conference registration is here.
Further information about the VTA State Conference and other events can be found here.
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