The AFAC26 Conference & Exhibition will bring thousands of emergency management professionals to Melbourne this month, with emergency fleets and vehicle technology taking a central role. Scheduled from August 18 to 21 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), the event is one of the largest gatherings of its kind in the region.
Fleet capability is one of six key industry streams. The exhibition will occupy more than 15,000 square metres across Bays 11 to 20. It will showcase equipment, technology, and services spanning emergency response, public safety, and disaster resilience.
Major Exhibitors and Fleet Focus
Automotive-related exhibitors include Isuzu Australia Limited. Specialist vehicle and fleet suppliers such as Minecorp Australia, Fire Rescue Safety Australia, IONNIC, and Global Fire Solutions AUNZ will also attend. These companies address the sophisticated requirements placed on vehicles operating in fire, rescue, and defence sectors.
The presence of these fleet specialists highlights how vehicle technology has evolved. Modern emergency fleets must support high-risk applications in mining and industrial safety, not just traditional urban response. The exhibition allows attendees to compare hardware designed for these specific environments.
AFAC notes the conference attracts professionals from a wide range of fields. Attendees come from emergency management, public safety, and disaster resilience, spanning first responders, defence and security, hazardous materials, and industrial safety. Critical infrastructure, mining, gas, and petroleum sectors are also represented.
Technology and Emerging Risks
Beyond conventional equipment, AFAC26 will examine emerging technologies. Artificial intelligence, predictive software, and drones are on the agenda. Satellite imagery and geographic information systems will also be discussed as tools for better incident response.
Vehicle electrification is another priority. A session titled “Charging into Risk: Community perceptions of lithium-ion battery fires and emergency services’ climate leadership” will be presented by Matt Dyer, executive manager at the Queensland Fire Department. This topic addresses the specific challenges posed by energy storage systems.
The inclusion of electric vehicle fire safety as a dedicated session suggests that industry leaders are moving past theoretical discussions. As more passenger and commercial EVs enter the market, first responders are forced to adapt their protocols for high-voltage incidents. This shift makes practical demonstrations essential for ground crews who need hands-on experience with new suppression techniques.
Live Demonstrations and Training
AFAC26 will stage a Live Demonstration program in the MCEC loading dock on August 19 and 20. The loading dock area will serve as a unusual stage for these activities. Exhibitors will demonstrate equipment and response techniques in practical scenarios.
Previous demonstrations have included crash-scene patient extrication and electric vehicle fire extinguishing. Robotics and decontamination equipment have also been featured. A free-to-attend AFAC Solutions Theatre will provide 20-minute presentations on similar topics, covering equipment, personal protective equipment, and fleet capability. These short sessions aim to provide quick, actionable insights for attendees moving through the exhibition floor.
Conference Themes and Structure
The broader program brings together more than 100 expert speakers. Concurrent conferences include the Australian Disaster Resilience Conference and the Women and Firefighting Australasia Conference. The Institution of Fire Engineers (Australia) National Conference will also run alongside the main event.
This year’s theme, “Leading Together: Integrity, Inclusion and Impact,” examines leadership within emergency management. It looks at how integrity and equity play a role in innovation and community trust. The event concludes with a Professional Development Program on August 21.
The scale of the event has increased significantly. AFAC25 attracted 4,451 attendees from 32 countries, with 201 presenters and 228 exhibiting organisations. Organizers expect a similar turnout this year.
Event Details
The exhibition is free to attend. It runs from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 19. On Thursday, August 20, the exhibition hours are 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The Professional Development Program will extend beyond the convention centre with workshops and field trips. One such trip involves a four-hour visit examining fire safety associated with Melbourne’s Metro rail project. Registration for conference tickets and free exhibition entry is available online.
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