In October 2026, Perth will host one of Australia’s largest defence industry events: Land Forces 2026.
For the first time, the Land Forces 2026 International Land Defence Exposition, will be held in Western Australia, marking a pivotal moment for the state’s growing role in supporting national land defence capability.
Taking place from 6–8 October 2026 at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, the event will bring together senior Army leadership, defence industry stakeholders, policymakers, and international partners to explore the future of land power in a rapidly evolving strategic environment.
Presented with the support of the Australian Army and organised by the AMDA Foundation, the event will showcase the full spectrum of land defence capability, from platforms and infrastructure to workforce. Its arrival in Perth reflects the state’s increasing importance in delivering key national programs, including littoral manoeuvre capabilities, Army base infrastructure, Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO), and advanced technologies under AUKUS Pillar II.
A new chapter for Land Forces
Previously hosted in Brisbane, Adelaide, and Melbourne, Land Forces has become a cornerstone of Australia’s defence industry calendar. Its move to Perth for 2026 underscores Western Australia’s strategic geography, industrial capacity, and defence infrastructure, making it a suitable location for discussions shaping the future of Army capability.
WA is already central to major defence initiatives. Its expansive coastline and proximity to the Indo-Pacific theatre support littoral operations, while ongoing base upgrades and logistics hubs enhance the Army’s operational readiness. The state’s growing role in the GWEO enterprise positions it as a hub for advanced manufacturing, testing, and sustainment of next-generation munitions. Combined with leadership in critical minerals and defence-related research and development, WA is poised to play a defining role in the evolution of Australia’s land combat capabilities.
Platform for Army-Led Engagement
As a major supporter of Land Forces 2026, the Australian Army has been instrumental in shaping the event’s program. Army will lead a series of engagement opportunities designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and professional development.
Key highlights include:
• Chief of Army Symposium – The Australian Army’s premier event. A strategic forum bringing together Army leadership, industry, academia, and international partners to explore the future of land warfare, capability development and the evolving role of the profession of arms.
• Junior Leaders Forum – A unique opportunity for emerging Army leaders to engage with industry and thought leaders, fostering the next generation of defence leadership.
• Army Stand – Army will have a significant presence inside the exhibition halls, looking to engage with attendees, as well as strengthen and build partnerships with industry.
These initiatives will be further enriched by the celebration of the 125th anniversary of the Australian Army in 2026, a milestone that underscores the enduring legacy and future trajectory of the nation’s land force.
Industry at the Centre
Land Forces 2026 will feature a three-day industry exhibition, offering a platform for companies to showcase solutions and capability to national and international audiences.
Exhibitors will have direct access to decision-makers, procurement leads, and program managers across Army, Defence, and government. Whether focused on vehicle platforms, robotics, autonomous systems, communications, sustainment, or infrastructure, Land Forces 2026 provides a unique opportunity to align with current and future capability priorities.
The event will also spotlight sovereign industrial capability, reinforcing the role of local industry in delivering and sustaining complex systems. As Australia strengthens its commitment to self-reliance and resilience, Land Forces 2026 will highlight how domestic innovation contributes to national security.
As AUKUS enters its next phase, Land Forces 2026 will provide a forum to explore opportunities under Pillar II, focusing on shared advanced capabilities such as artificial intelligence, cyber, quantum technologies, and autonomous systems. These efforts will be tied to Army’s future needs and the broader AUKUS innovation ecosystem.
The event will support dialogue on enhancing interoperability with allies and accelerating capability development through joint experimentation and co-development.
Innovation will play a part in the event as sourcing new Australian ideas, technologies and research will be key to meeting the future needs of the Australian Defence Force. The Land Forces Innovation Pitchfest and Awards aims to support this need by sourcing Australian innovation at various stages of development, from ‘blue-sky’ thinking to developed technologies, and showcase them onsite via in a pitchfest –style series of presentations. Winners across four categories receive cash prizes to further personal and professional development and help take their innovation to the next level.
The event will also serve as a platform for international engagement, drawing official delegations and industry leaders from across the Indo-Pacific and allied nations. As Australia deepens regional partnerships and defence cooperation, the event will foster strategic dialogue on shared challenges, capability integration, and multilateral collaboration.
Why Perth, why now?
The decision to host Land Forces 2026 in Perth is both timely and strategic. As Australia’s defence priorities evolve, Western Australia has emerged as a key contributor to national capability.
Perth’s location, industrial capacity, and growing defence footprint make it a suitable setting to convene national and international stakeholders. Its proximity to the Indo-Pacific, combined with strong local engagement, offers a unique opportunity to connect Australia’s defence industry with global partners and supply chains.
Land Forces 2026 will reflect the strength and diversity of Australia’s industrial base. While Perth is the host city, the event remains a national platform showcasing Australian innovation, capability, and strategic vision to the world by bringing the world to Australia.
For exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees, Land Forces 2026 is more than an event. It is a chance to contribute to a national effort to shape the future of land power across Australia and the broader region.
The event is supported by the Australian Army, the Western Australian Government, Defence West, and Business Events Perth.
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