The Appita New Speaker Competition is one of Appita’s longest-running and most respected professional development initiatives, providing emerging professionals with the opportunity to present their work, build presentation skills and gain recognition across the Australian and New Zealand pulp, paper, packaging and fibre-based products industries.
Whether you've completed a research project, implemented an operational improvement, solved a technical challenge or have an innovative idea to share, this is your opportunity to step onto the stage in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Why Enter?
- Develop your presentation and communication skills.
- Build your professional profile across Australia and New Zealand.
- Receive valuable feedback from experienced industry professionals.
- Share your knowledge with peers and industry leaders.
- Compete for professional development funding and complimentary registration to the 2027 Appita Annual Conference – New Speaker finals.
KEY DATES
New Zealand Runoff
Thursday 22 October 2026, Copthorne Hotel, Rotorua
6.00 pm Networking • 6.30 pm Dinner • 7.30 pm Competition
Australian Runoff
Thursday 19 November 2026, BioPRIA, Monash University
10.00 am Networking • 10:30 am Guest Presentation • 11:00 am Competition
Winners of the runoff will present at the Appita 2027 Annual Conference.
Applications close: 25 September 2026
Places are strictly limited to three speakers in each country.
The winner of the New Speaker Final will receive a $2,000 professional development grant, and the runner-up will receive a $1,000 grant. This could include overseas travel, attending a training course, conference or mill visits, visits to research institutions, etc. It could also be used as an add-on to work-related travel but must be used within the next 12 months.
If you have any questions or need guidance, please reach out to our dedicated team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or +61 3 9467 9722.