Australian Defence Science, Technology and Research (ADSTAR) Summit

Returning for its third instalment, the Australian Defence Science, Technology and Research (ADSTAR) Summit will bring together the brightest minds from Defence, government, industry, and academia to collaborate, challenge, and accelerate capability development to shape the future of Australia's Defence innovation.

At its heart, ADSTAR explores The Art of the Possible - how creativity, collaboration, and scientific excellence can be harnessed to anticipate threats, seize opportunities, and deliver impact where it matters most.

In an increasingly complex world, innovation thrives where curiosity meets purpose. ADSTAR 2026 is about imagining what's next, and turning that imagination into capability.

Through an immersive program of keynote addresses, panel discussions, demonstrations, e-posters, workshops and exhibitions, ADSTAR connects early-stage research and real-world operational outcomes. It provides a world-class forum to engage directly with Defence's highest priorities.

Under the theme 'Delivering More, Together', ADSTAR 2026 will explore the strategic lines of effort, from the Defence Innovation, Science and Technology Strategy (IS&T) 'Accelerating Asymmetric Advantage - Delivering More, Together':

• Anticipating the Future
  How can we better forecast emerging threats and opportunities? This explores foresight, trends, and analysis to ensure Australia stays ahead of the curve.
• Experimentation
  Innovation demands courage to test, trial, and sometimes fail fast. This spotlights experimentation as a driver of discovery turning creative ideas into practical solutions.
• Integrated Ecosystem
  Defence innovation doesn't happen in isolation. This celebrates collaboration across Defence, government, academia, and industry building an ecosystem where partnerships accelerate capability.
• Mission Driven
  Science and technology must deliver outcomes that matter. This focuses on aligning research and innovation to Defence missions, ensuring that every idea has a pathway to impact.

Be part of the conversation that matters - don't miss your chance to help build a stronger, more resilient Australia

ADSTAR 2026 will be a meeting place for innovators, decision-makers, and practitioners who believe in the power of science and technology to protect Australia's future.

Join us in Adelaide to:

• Access the Pipeline: Meet Australia's best innovators and researchers in one room.
• Targeted Visibility: Connect with leaders from Defence, government, industry and academia to advance next generation capability.
• Drive Outcomes: Better understand the Defence context and shape your decisions

Delegates will have the chance to exchange ideas, form partnerships, and help shape and transform the direction of Defence innovation for years to come. Together, we'll explore The Art of the Possible.

For more information please visit the ADSTAR Summit website.