Harris Black had the pleasure of hosting the 59th Brentnalls Affiliation Conference in Brisbane, welcoming Directors, Principals and Practice Managers from affiliated firms across Australia and New Zealand. Held at the W Brisbane, the conference brought together some of the profession’s most experienced leaders to share ideas, discuss emerging challenges, and explore opportunities shaping the future of accounting and advisory firms.
Future Ready, Together
The conference theme, “Future Ready, Together: Leading Through Change. Building For Tomorrow,” reflected many of the conversations held throughout the two-day program. As firms navigate increasing regulatory requirements, rapid technological change and ongoing succession challenges, the value of collaboration and shared learning across the Brentnalls Affiliation has never been greater.
A particular highlight of the conference was the opportunity for each firm to present practice updates, sharing successes, challenges and lessons learned in areas including advisory services, governance, leadership development, succession planning, AI implementation and operational efficiency. These sessions continue to be one of the most valuable aspects of the affiliation, providing practical insights that firms can adapt and apply within their own practices.
Industry Insights and Looking Ahead
The conference featured a range of presenters who challenged attendees to think differently about the future of professional services.
Sessions explored economic and business trends, developments within the accounting profession, benchmarking and practice performance, mergers and acquisitions advice, and the opportunities and risks presented by emerging technologies. A standout presentation from futurist Dr Camila Mozzini-Alister encouraged delegates to focus not only on predicting the future but actively shaping it.
Artificial intelligence remained a key discussion topic throughout the conference, with firms openly sharing their experiences, successes and challenges in adopting AI tools to improve efficiency, enhance client service and support team development. Benchmarking sessions also generated significant discussion as firms compared performance metrics, processes and technology strategies.
Learning from the Past
Another memorable session was the Brentnalls Alumni Panel, which brought together former leaders from across the affiliation to reflect on the history of Brentnalls, lessons learned throughout their careers, and insights for the next generation of leaders. Their experiences provided valuable perspective on the importance of relationships, adaptability, and long-term thinking in an ever-changing profession.
We were grateful to Brendan Power, Craig Farrow, James Black, and John Crouch for taking the time to share their experiences, reflections, and wisdom accumulated over many years in practice.
The conference also provided an opportunity to reflect on the Brentnalls journey, with delegates recognising almost three decades of collaboration since the affiliation was established in 1997. The session served as a reminder that while our profession continues to evolve, the strength of the Brentnalls network has always been built on a willingness to share knowledge, support one another, and collaborate for the benefit of our firms and clients.
Brisbane Hospitality
As hosts, Harris Black was proud to showcase Brisbane and provide opportunities for delegates to connect outside the conference room. From welcome drinks overlooking the city skyline at The Lex, to dinner at Persone and a closing celebration at Cicada Blu on Brisbane’s Sky Deck, the social program offered plenty of opportunities to strengthen relationships and continue conversations in a relaxed setting. Optional morning walks along the Brisbane River also proved to be a great way to start the day.
Stronger Together
The 2026 conference reinforced the strength of the Brentnalls Affiliation and the benefits of working together while remaining independently owned firms. By openly sharing ideas, experiences and practical solutions, members continue to help one another navigate change and improve outcomes for clients, teams and communities.
We would like to thank everyone who attended and contributed to another successful conference and look forward to continuing the conversations and initiatives that emerged from our time together in Brisbane.