MEA 2025 Annual Conference

The Gold Coast turned on its best sunshine as we gathered for the Master Electricians Australia 2025 Annual Conference from September 26–30. With the theme “Preparing Now for What’s Next”, the event brought together sharp business insights, hands-on learning, and plenty of opportunities for delegates and their families to connect, celebrate and enjoy time together. 

We began in style with the National Industry Excellence Awards at the JW Marriott. It was a night that was as glamorous as it was inspiring. Celebrating our national winners reminded us why we’re so proud of this industry and the people driving it forward. The energy in the room carried into the days that followed and set the perfect tone for the Conference itself.  

You can read the full recap of the Awards, including all winners, here. 

The Conference business program focused on practical insights for business owners on new technology, setting up for success, and how to best work with younger generations.   Following our AGM and Women in Contracting morning tea, we had a session led by Collabaloop on ‘Communication through the ages’ – showing us some techniques for getting the most out of the Gen Z workforce.  

Our Keynote speaker, Michael McQueen, was the talk of the conference, with delegates gaining insights into what’s ahead, and how to separate the tides from the waves. Brad Flynn walked through the three golden rules of cash flow, showing how small adjustments can make a big difference to profit margins and resilience. Alex Buckham tackled the safe and strategic use of AI, highlighting where it excels in systems, discovery and analytics. He ended by reminding us that AI isn’t the be-all and end-all of running a business, as it still requires human guidance and only humans can perform the necessary critical thinking. Adam Bletchly from Energy Queensland spoke about recent and upcoming changes in connections requirements, while Matthew Duncan provided important updates on the EL-001 technical standards committee work and reinforced the need for constant vigilance around safety. 

Kicking off our third and final day, Anthea Middleton, CEO Powering Skills Organisation addressed the looming shortage of 30,000 electricians by 2030 and called for more workers, broader skills, and an inclusive culture to attract and retain talent. Meanwhile, Michael Edgar from Solar Accreditation Australia and Robert Pearson from MEA spoke about the surge in battery storage installations, the importance of compliance, and the positive rise in installer accreditations, alongside QUT’s new battery certification facility. 

Our partners added even more depth, with Clipsal Schneider sharing opportunities for business growth, Brighter Super providing financial insights, and Megger showcasing their latest technology. One of the standout sessions was the MEA Panel, chaired by MEA’s CEO Kate Raymond, featuring Matthew Duncan, Ross Lockhart, Jordon Carlisle and Cassandra Arbuckle, which gave members a transparent update on MEA’s work and a chance to put their questions directly to our team. That spirit of open exchange carried into the afternoon Board mentoring workshop, where contractors shared their experiences and strategies with one another that provided a powerful reminder of the value in peer-to-peer learning. 

Of course, no MEA Conference is complete without moments of connection and celebration. Families joined delegates for the AFL and NRL finals, enjoyed the Outback Spectacular, and relaxed together at our Sunday Session on the QT Hotel rooftop as well as our social family dinner. A sparkling sunset cruise aboard the YOT, themed “All That Glitters IS Gold”, wrapped up the formalities in style and made it a farewell to remember. 

This year’s Conference would not have been possible without the incredible support of our sponsors. We extend our sincere thanks to our Platinum Sponsor: Clipsal by Schneider Electric; Gold Sponsors: Brighter Super, CNW Electrical Wholesalers, Contracting Industry Redundancy Trust (CIRT), Megger, Sherriff Electrical Wholesalers, Solar Accreditation Australia, and Electrogroup Apprentices and Training; Silver Sponsors: Add Staff and Lawrence & Hanson; Bronze Sponsors: MMEM, Busy at Work; and Supporting Sponsors: Energy Queensland Limited, Energy Skills Australia, and Virgin Australia. Your contribution helps us deliver events that truly make a difference for our members and our industry. 

As delegates headed home, there was a sense of energy and optimism. From cash flow strategies to AI insights, from workforce challenges to solar standards, the 2025 Conference delivered both inspiration and practical tools for the road ahead. More importantly, it reminded us of the strength of the MEA community, which is a network ready to support one another as we prepare for what’s next.