AIFST25, the Australian Institute of Food Science and Technology’s flagship convention, will take place on 12–13 August at the Crown Promenade, Melbourne.
No matter what area of the agrifood sector you work or study in, AIFST25 is the must-attend event — a convention for sharing knowledge, exploring innovation, and strengthening connections across the industry.
The theme for AIFST25 - Grow, Learn, Connect, and Champion is designed to spark fresh ideas, foster collaboration, and ignite conversations about building a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive food system for the future.
AIFST25 will feature a comprehensive technical program and exhibition, and the great networking opportunities offered by a face-to-face event.
Over two days with plenary and four concurrent session streams, the convention will feature over 50 scientific and food industry speakers from across the agrifood sector. Key topics covered will include food safety, advances in health and nutrition, sensory and consumer science, food security and resilience, advanced food manufacturing, food policy and regulation, innovation and sustainability.
There are many benefits to attending AIFST25 including networking opportunities; knowledge enhancement; professional development; collaboration and partnership opportunities, plus staying ahead of industry trends. Participants can expect a diverse array of presentations, panel discussions and networking opportunities designed to inspire collaboration and innovation.
"We are thrilled to bring together some of the brightest minds and most forward-thinking leaders across the agrifood sector for this year’s convention," said AIFST CEO, Fiona Fleming. "The convention serves as a pivotal platform to explore how the latest technologies and advances across multiple disciplines can drive sustainable practices and solutions for the agrifood industry of the future."
Key highlights of AIFST25 include:
o Keynote Addresses: Hear from renowned experts shaping the future of technology, sustainability, and the agrifood system, including;
o Professor Sally Gras, who leads the Food and Agribusiness research theme at the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Engineering and IT, will deliver the prestigious JR Vickery Address presenting a keynote entitled ‘Innovation: The Key to Solving Global Challenges and Driving Australia's Future’
o Tony Hunter, Global Food Futurist, keynote will address how the food, beverage, and ag industries can rise to the challenge of feeding 11 billion people by 2050.
o A/Prof Jessica Biesiekierski, Nutrition Keynote Speaker who will explore Nutrition and the Gut: Mechanisms, Interventions & Unravelling the Microbiome
o These sessions are part of a dynamic keynote lineup featuring leaders across research, industry, and innovation — all sharing insights to inspire action and shape the future of food.
Panel Discussions: Engaging debates on pressing issues and emerging trends in the field.
Networking Opportunities: Connections with peers, potential collaborators, and industry leaders. A key highlight of the AIFST Convention is the food and wine networking evening. The event is a great opportunity to create new connections and reconnect with industry colleagues. Likewise, the Rise and Shine: Career Connect Breakfast on Wednesday 13 August is an exciting event open to all students, young members, and AIFST 2025 mentors and mentees.
Whether you're early in your journey, established in your field, or ready to explore new opportunities, AIFST25 provides unmatched opportunities for learning, networking, and professional growth.
The conference is expected to draw attendees from across the agrifood sector, including industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and students — all united by a common goal of advancing the science of feeding our future.
Visit the AIFST website and dedicated Convention page - https://www.aifst.asn.au/AIFST-2025-Convention - for program details and to register.
