Australian Children’s Content Summit will return for its fourth year in 2026, with organisers confirming the event will take place from 24 to 27 August at Pacific Bay Resort in Coffs Harbour.
Presented again by SLR Productions, the summit remains Australia’s only dedicated marketplace and industry gathering focused on children’s and family screen content.
International and local industry leaders confirmed
International featured guests already confirmed include Barry Toa, assistant lead strategic partnerships and kids at Mediacorp; Tyler Martin, content acquisitions manager for kids, film and partnerships at ITV; Tom Beattie, managing director of kids and family at Tiger Aspect Productions; and Emily Horgan, kids YouTube and streaming specialist and author of Kids StreamerSphere.
Among the Australian speakers confirmed is Melinda Wearne, head of children and family at ABC, alongside representatives from Australian Children’s Television Foundation, Nine, NITV, Screen Australia and state screen agencies.
Returning partners back the summit
The Australian Children’s Television Foundation returns as principal partner, while Screen Australia and Screen NSW continue as major government partners.
Gold partners returning this year include Flying Bark Productions, ABC, Simpsons and Screenwest.
Suzanne Ryan, CEO of SLR Productions and founder of the summit, said the event continued to bring together the full sector.
“Children’s and family content is one of Australia’s most powerful creative assets. The Australian Children’s Content Summit brings together the full ecosystem, from emerging voices to global leaders, in one highly connected marketplace,” Ryan said.
“As we enter our fourth year, we are proud of the strength of our partners, the ambition of our delegates, and the meaningful collaborations continuing to grow from the Summit.”
Industry leaders highlight sector change
Jenny Buckland, CEO of the Australian Children’s Television Foundation, said the summit remained important as the industry continues to evolve.
“The Australian Children’s Television Foundation is proud to support the Australian Children’s Content Summit again. Why? Because rapid change is reshaping our industry, and none of us can navigate change in a vacuum,” Buckland said.
“No matter who you are, if you’re interested in kids’ screen content on any platform, there is something new to learn and someone new to meet at the Summit.”
Jennifer Collins, director screen at ABC, said the event remained important for local storytelling.
“The ABC is committed to delivering a world-class children’s slate that entertains, informs and inspires young audiences and families. The Australian Children’s Content Summit is an invaluable opportunity for creators, producers and screen agencies to come together and ensure Australian stories continue to thrive on our screens, at home and globally.”
Louise Gough, director of narrative content at Screen Australia, said the summit also contributes to industry development.
“Our local children’s content continues to set an international benchmark for creativity, shaping content that inspires, challenges and delights young viewers and their families everywhere. Initiatives such as Screen Australia and Australian Children’s Television Foundation’s digital-focused Kids IP Incubator often arise from the collaboration and inspiration created at events like the Australian Children’s Content Summit. The event plays a vital role in our screen ecosystem.”
Summit continues to expand its reach
Since launching in 2023, the summit has attracted more than 260 delegates annually from 12 countries, including executives from BBC, BBC Studios, CBC, PBS Kids, Apple TV+, Disney, Netflix, Sony, Paramount, Warner Bros. Discovery and YouTube.
The 2026 summit will again be hosted by Emma Watkins, known for Emma Memma.
Earlybird registrations are available until 1 June 2026, priced at $760.
Top Image: Australian Children’s Content Summit