Melbourne to Host Key Political Summit Ahead of Victorian Election
Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will join Victorian leaders at the Future Victoria Summit in Melbourne ahead of the 2026 state election, focusing on smart growth, innovation and economic development.
Harry Taruva 
Melbourne - Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will join Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan and Opposition Leader Jess Wilson at the Future Victoria Summit in Melbourne later this month, providing a platform for cross-party discussions on the state's economic and technological future amid an approaching state election.
The event, presented by the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership with the Herald Sun, is scheduled for Wednesday, 25 February 2026, at the Palladium at Crown in Southbank.
The summit returns in 2026 with a focus on building a "SMART Victoria," emphasising smart growth in areas including digital innovation, education and skills, connectivity, infrastructure, and visitor experiences.
Attendees, including political leaders, industry experts and business decision-makers will explore strategies to position Victoria as a competitive hub for business, major events and economic development.
The program includes presentations and facilitated question and answer sessions with the state's opposition leader, The Premier and the Prime Minister, alongside panel discussions and opening remarks from Herald Sun Editor, Sam Weir.
Victorian Chamber Chief Executive, Sally Curtain, said the summit aimed to deliver practical solutions.
“Future Victoria is about more than ideas, it’s about practical pathways to ensure our state remains a great place to live, work and do business.
“As Victoria faces rapid change, from technological disruption to workforce and infrastructure pressures, this Summit brings together the leaders and decision-makers who can help chart a smarter course forward.
“By focusing on SMART growth, we can ensure Victoria remains competitive, confident and open for business well into the future," Curtain said.
Weir highlighted the event's significance in an election year.
“This year marks the 10th Herald Sun Future Victoria series and it has grown into a powerful and agenda-setting campaign advocating for our state and enabling key decision-makers to speak directly to Victorians,” he said, adding that “the influential series and event have never been more important than in a critical state election year and, as Victoria’s number one media brand, the Herald Sun is delighted the Prime Minister, Premier and Opposition leader have chosen to attend and reveal their visions for making our state the envy of the world.”
The Victorian state election is set for 28 November 2026, making the summit a timely opportunity for leaders to outline their visions directly to business and community stakeholder.
