Connection is key, and Tasmania’s business community is leaning in. Strong demand for meaningful dialogue, leadership and practical insight is driving the return of the Tasmanian Business Conference for its second year, to be held on Wednesday 27 May at the paranaple Convention Centre, with up to 200 attendees expected.
Hosted by the Devonport Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), the conference builds on the momentum of a highly successful inaugural event in 2025 and the recent sold‑out Women in Business Summit, which attracted more than 160 attendees and highlighted the appetite for connection across the business community. DCCI President Claire Connelly said the conference reflects a deliberate shift away from one‑off events toward building long‑term capability and stronger business relationships.
“Momentum matters, and we’re seeing first‑hand how powerful it is when our business community comes together with purpose,” Ms Connelly said.
“This was never about hosting a single day on the calendar. It’s about strengthening relationships, growing capability, and creating spaces where ideas, opportunity and people connect in a meaningful way.”
The conference will deliver a full‑day program featuring world‑class speakers, facilitated conversations and networking, designed to support businesses navigating complexity, change and growth.
The opening keynote, presented by Cradle Coast Authority, will be delivered by Dr Katherine Hunt, whose address, Decide Like a Human: How Ethical Thinking Beats Algorithms in the Age of AI, will explore the critical role of human judgement, values and ethical thinking in an increasingly automated world. Her keynote will challenge business leaders to remain grounded in purpose as artificial intelligence reshapes decision‑making.
The conference will close with a powerful keynote, presented by TasPorts, from Ant Williams, titled Fearless Under Pressure. A former sport psychologist turned extreme athlete, Ant holds world records for the deepest and longest swims under ice. Drawing on his experiences performing at the limits of human endurance, he will demystify risk‑taking and share practical strategies for staying calm, focused and effective under pressure.
Guiding the day will be Michael Rowland, one of Australia’s most respected journalists and broadcasters, who will serve as emcee, bringing insight, professionalism and energy to the program.
The 2025 conference theme, Connection is Key, reflects what matters most in Tasmania, connection to ideas, to each other, and to the future being shaped by the state’s business community.
“In a place like Tasmania, connection isn’t a ‘nice to have’,” Ms Connelly said.
“It underpins participation, productivity and regional prosperity. These conversations matter, and so does the collective movement we’re building together.”
Final program details shortly. More information is available at www.tasbusconf.au
ENDS
Media Contact: Claire Connelly. President M: 0439 982 880 E: president@dcci.org.au
About: DCCI is dedicated to supporting and promoting the business community in Devonport and surrounds. Through various initiatives and programs, DCCI aims to foster economic growth, innovation, and collaboration among local businesses.
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