the Aged Care Today magazine featured articles

The aged care sector is under more pressure than at any point in recent memory. Demand is rising, the regulatory environment keeps shifting, and the workforce challenge is not going away. Against that backdrop, the question of how technology and innovation can help providers do more with less has never been more urgent.

That is exactly the territory the ITAC Conference covers. Now heading to Brisbane’s Royal International Convention Centre on 6 and 7 May 2026, ITAC brings together leaders, providers, researchers and technology partners to explore what is possible and, more importantly, what is practical.

We spoke with Julie Anderson, Head of InnovAGEING at Ageing Australia, about what delegates can expect.

For readers who haven’t been before, what is ITAC?

The Innovation Transforming Aged Care conference is where sector leaders come together to look beyond the pressure of today and focus on what’s possible for tomorrow.

What makes ITAC different from other sector events is that it’s deeply practical. Yes, we talk about big ideas – AI, digital care models, workforce transformation – but the heart of the conference is about what works on the ground.

It’s also a collaborative space so that providers can learn from each other, vendors can demonstrate solutions in the real world, and government can share direction while hearing feedback in real time.

Why does the sector need a conference specifically focused on innovation and technology?

Engaging with innovation is no longer optional. It’s essential for provider sustainability and for delivering the kind of care older Australians deserve. Providers who don’t engage risk missing opportunities to continue to drive care that is of the highest quality, more person-centred and sustainable. ITAC focuses on the skills, systems and mindsets providers need to stay ahead: digital maturity, data readiness, change leadership, cyber resilience, new models of care and the technologies that support them.

What can delegates expect from the 2026 program?

What excites me most about this year’s program is the chance to learn not only from sector leaders but also global experts, industry partners and innovators from other industries. I’m also excited about the Leading for Innovation pre-summit which will challenge and energise leaders to create the conditions where innovation can really thrive.

The ITAC Awards are also returning in 2026. Why should providers consider nominating?

Submitting an ITAC Award nomination is a powerful way for aged care providers to showcase the incredible work happening across the sector.  For organisations doing something innovative, even in small steps, their story deserves to be told.

Ageing Australia’s InnovAGEING hub is committed to showcasing Australian led innovation, sharing insights and inspiring others.

What would you say to a provider who is sitting on the fence about coming?

ITAC is the two days that give you back weeks of clarity, inspiration and practical insight. Every year, people tell me they arrive feeling overwhelmed by pressure and leave feeling energised, connected and far more confident about what’s possible. The opportunities to network are invaluable and people comment on how generous the speakers and providers are with real examples of learnings and successes.

Register now for ITAC 2026

ITAC 2026 takes place 6 and 7 May at the Royal International Convention Centre, Brisbane. Early bird registrations are open now. Whether you are looking to explore new technology, connect with peers or share your organisation’s innovation story through the ITAC Awards, this is the event to be at.