BookUp 2026

Tickets are now on sale for BookUp 2026, Australia’s only annual publishing conference, taking place at Melbourne Connect on 22 July 2026 followed by a Research Day on 23 July 2026. 

Now in its sixth year, BookUp brings the industry together to explore innovation, navigate change, and unlock new opportunities across the publishing landscape.

This year's program will focus on bold ideas and practical approaches to drive change throughout the publishing ecosystem. Sessions will explore shifting consumer behaviours, strategies to harness the value of ever-growing data, and the workplace skills and technology trends shaping the industry's future. It's designed to leave you inspired, informed and ready to take action.

What to expect:

• Inspiring keynotes from leaders from both within and beyond the publishing world.
• Panels and case studies tackling the industry's biggest challenges and opportunities.
• Practical sessions with strategies you can put into action immediately.
• Celebrate excellence in publishing with the George Robertson and Rising Star Awards – nominations open.
• Connect with peers, experts and thought leaders shaping the industry.
• Enjoy a fully catered day designed to inform, inspire and energise.

Program released!

You can expect a day full of experts from publishing and beyond, discussing thought-provoking ideas and delivering valuable professional development for publishing staff at all levels. Sessions will cover topics such as Building Trust with Audiences, Researching Australian Readers, Trend Forecasting, A Post-AI World, Friction Points and Creating Stand Out Award Submissions. For the first time, the event will also feature a new education-focused afternoon stream.

Meet the BookUp programming committee 

This year’s conference program is being brought to you by a stellar group of professionals from across publishing:

• Justin Wolfers (Publisher, Murdoch Books)
• Jackie Money (Sales & Marketing Director, Melbourne University Publishing)  
• Jordon Lott (Commissioning Editor, Trade, Wiley)
• Katherine Roan (Senior Product Manager, Cengage) 
  
  

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Writing Australia.