Foundations and Frontiers
#FromMeToWe
The saying goes, “It’s always darkest before the dawn,” and that’s exactly how it felt in the construction industry. The COVID-era infrastructure stimulus delivered a profitless boom, while business insolvencies remained high. But at FF25, held on 6 August 2025, there were clear signs of light — a dawning realisation that the industry must change to deliver the infrastructure Australia needs, when it needs it, and at a price it can afford.
Productivity remains key. The event emphasised the vital shift from ‘me’ to ‘we’. By recognising that our destinies are intertwined and focusing on how we can support one another, the industry can create a productive, financially stable future where everyone benefits. Collaboration builds trust, drives innovation, and prioritises shared success over individual gain — but real change demands a cultural shift, starting with each of us asking, “What can I do to help?”
Foundations and Frontiers gave leaders the chance to lead this shift. Together, we explored how collaboration can unlock a brighter future for construction.
Why
The widening gap between the construction workforce and growing infrastructure demand remains a critical challenge. The industry simply can’t deliver what’s needed, when it’s needed, and at a price that works — alone. FF25 continued the important work of bringing government, industry, unions and academia together to tackle these challenges with real, actionable solutions.
Event format
This one-day forum was far from a typical conference. With inspirational TED-style talks igniting new ideas and unique industry discussion formats encouraging intimate, focused engagement, FF25 was a gathering like no other. Building on the success of last year’s game-show style sessions including ‘Construction’s Great Debate’ and ‘Deal or No Deal’, this year’s event delivered even more creative and dynamic conversations through a ‘Ted Lasso half-time team talk’, construction’s first ‘Family Feud’ and ‘Speed bargaining.’
Even bigger and better
FF25 saw over 500 industry leaders gather to celebrate progress and map the way forward.
And the momentum doesn’t stop here. Following FF25, we celebrated excellence at the Australian Construction Achievement Award winner presentation held at The Star, Brisbane.
We are already looking ahead to FF26 in Sydney. If you want to be the first to hear the latest updates and secure your place.
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