The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) is calling on transport operators and supply chain leaders to secure their places early for the VTA State Conference 2026.
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With registrations now open, the conference will take place from Sunday 22 to Tuesday 24 March at Silverwater Resort, Phillip Island (San Remo).
With Victoria’s freight task projected to double by 2050, the 2026 conference theme, ‘Freight Never Stops’ reflects the unrelenting pace of demand and the growing operational, regulatory, and workforce strains confronting the sector.
This year’s program will explore the environment in which operators must balance rising costs, efficiency pressures, customer expectations, and the need for sustainable, long-term productivity.
VTA CEO Peter Anderson says that as freight volumes continue to rise, industry collaboration and informed decision-making are more important than ever.
“The challenges facing our sector aren’t easing — they’re intensifying,” he says.
“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 see senior leaders from transport, government, and key policy and regulatory agencies 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.
Anderson says productivity improvements are no longer optional, but are fundamental to keeping businesses viable.
“This conference will equip operators with strategies to lift efficiency through technology, innovation, infrastructure, and practical regulation that supports rather than hinders safe operations,” he says.
With essential infrastructure such as major corridors and terminals under increasing strain, and as new intermodal capacity comes online, Anderson says it’s 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 says.
“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 front of mind, with demand outpacing supply and skill shortages affecting capability across the sector.
“For freight to keep moving, we need a workforce that is respected, supported, and sustainable,” he says.
“Developing talent pathways and strengthening industry capability will be essential priorities in 2026 and beyond.
“Our State Conference is a strategic investment — in your business, your people, and the future of the industry.
“I strongly encourage operators, partners, and stakeholders to register early and take an active role in shaping the future of freight.”
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