Monash FutureFest 2026
Description
Big Ideas. Bold Partnerships. Built Together.
For one day, the Clayton campus transforms into the biggest celebration of innovation at Monash.
FutureFest is where students, researchers, founders, industry leaders and the community come together to tackle big ideas and build the partnerships shaping tomorrow.
Less conference, more festival. Enjoy free food trucks, coffee, matcha and live music while connecting with innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers and industry leaders.
It's your last chance this year to make new connections, spark fresh ideas and kick-start your summer. Don't miss it!
What's On
Six hours. One campus buzzing with possibility.
Choose your own track.
Hear from the people shaping what’s next.
Catch opening remarks from Rod Bristow, CEO of Innovation Victoria, and a keynote from influential futurist Ben Hamer.
Hear from some big names in industry.
Our panels feature speakers from The Iconic, SEEK and more.
Get inside the Monash innovation ecosystem.
Explore the innovation expo, meet future-focused employers including KPMG, L’Oréal, HEX and discover startups from across the Monash Technology Precinct Network, watch pitches from the AI Institute’s Hackcelerator, and tour cutting-edge facilities at Monash Innovation Labs and Monash Research Platforms.
Get hands-on with First Nations culture.
Join jewellery-making and weaving workshops led by First Nations artists.
Give back to Country.
Take part in tree planting at the Aboriginal Gardens.
Discover your Exponential Intelligence.
Test your capabilities and explore the future of work at our exQ activation.
Meet founders who’ve been where you are.
Connect with Monash alumni founders, hear their stories and discover where a conversation could lead.
Explore how research and industry can work better together.
Join conversations about turning cutting-edge research into real-world impact.
Cheer on the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Catch the best and brightest student and alumni startups pitching off for a share of $20,000
Make an afternoon of it.
Matcha, food trucks, coffee, DJs and plenty of people worth meeting. What more could you want?
November 27, 2026
12pm - 6pm
11am Registrations Start
12pm - Opening
Alan Finkel Building, Monash University Clayton
**If you are interested in exhibiting at the Expo, please tick 'yes' upon registration and we will be in touch to provide you with all the information**
FAQs
- Do I need to be a Monash student or staff member to attend?
No. Everyone is welcome. FutureFest is hosted by Monash but attendees from outside the university are encouraged to join.
- Will food and drinks be available?
Selected food truck options and coffee will be available throughout the event, included within your ticket.
On campus merchants are also available should you wish to purchase additional food.
- Do I have to stay for the whole day?
No! We would encourage you to, but the day is designed for you to get the best value regardless of how long you have with us.
You'll have the option of choosing a path that guides you to expert sessions, or you can pick how you would like to structure the day.
Student Track
Meet the companies hiring tomorrow's talent. Discover startups, future careers and the skills that matter most - and maybe even find your next big idea.
Research Track
Find collaborators. Meet industry. See how research moves beyond the lab and into the real world through partnerships that create impact.
Industry Track
Hear what's keeping industry leaders awake at night. Connect with emerging talent, discover breakthrough research and build the partnerships that shape what's next.
- Where should I park?
Limited free parking will be available at Monash Clayton Campus.
Further paid parking is also available.
Campus travel information will be shared with registered attendees before the event.
The Clayton campus is also accessible by bus.
- When should I arrive at Monash?
Registrations open at 11am.
FutureFest will begin with an opening address and keynote speaker at 12pm.
Please ensure you arrive on time so that you don't miss any of the good stuff.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
