ACCA 36th ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2025

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
Sunday 14th – Wednesday 17th September, 2025

The Annual Conference & Trade Exhibition will return this year to the newly refurbished Sofitel Hotel in Sydney NSW. This year promises to be a landmark event, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and professionals from around the globe for an unparalleled exchange of knowledge, collaboration and inspiration. 

With a refreshed agenda shaped by delegate feedback, this year’s conference will not only feature a dynamic line up of keynote speakers and engaging panel discussions, but will also introduce extended, in-depth workshop sessions designed to deliver practical takeaways and deep-dive learning.

Highlights of the program will include:

  • James Wood - Award-winning safety speaker and author from CNB Safe, sharing his powerful personal journey and transformative insights on workplace safety.
  • Tony Nicholls of Good Talent Media – exploring tailored high-impact communication strategies specific to the cemeteries & crematoria industries.
  • John Adams, UK Funeral Director and grief education advocate - offering a compelling look into the UK funeral industry.
We are also proud to welcome Dr. Lauren Breen as one of our keynote speakers at this year’s Annual Conference. A leading expert in grief and bereavement, Dr. Breen brings deep academic insight and practical relevance to the complex experiences surrounding death, loss, and support. Her keynote forms part of a special partnership with the Australian Death Studies Society (ADSS) and will feature as part of the ADSS Annual Lecture on Wednesday. 

Alongside the educational content, delegates will enjoy unique networking and cultural experiences, including:

  • Buses will depart the Sofitel Hotel on Monday for an exclusive guided tour of the newly opened Macarthur Memorial Park 
  • Join us for ACCA’s exclusive Gala Dinner, held at the elegant Sofitel Hotel on Tuesday evening. 
  • Don’t miss ACCA’s signature Gala Dinner on Tuesday night at the Sofitel Hotel—a night of celebration, connection, and entertainment and of course, some dancing
  • Optional excursions such as the iconic Sydney Bridge Climb and a guided tour of the Royal Botanic Gardens, offering opportunities to connect with peers in unforgettable settings.

Our event would not be complete without the Trade Exhibition that runs for the entire duration of the conference. The Trade exhibition gives delegates the opportunity to engage with industry-leading suppliers showcasing the latest products, technologies, and services. It’s a unique opportunity to discover new solutions, build partnerships, form relationships and stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive market. 

We look forward to welcoming you to the 2025 Annual Conference & Trade Exhibition from Sunday 14th – Wednesday 17th September.