The Australian dairy industry has demonstrated a thirst for knowledge, networking and connections as record numbers are registered to attend ADC 2026 Melbourne this week 11-13 February 2026.
More than 800 delegates have registered for ADC 2026 making this year’s event the biggest in ADC history – the previous record was 675 in Melbourne in 2024.
ADC President and NSW dairy farmer Rose Philipzen said the growth and ongoing success of the event is a testament to how ADC is valued and respected as a forward-thinking and pivotal industry forum.
“ADC is an event by farmers, for farmers, and I think this really resonates with the Australian dairy community. Remaining apolitical, the focus for ADC is on the issues that matter most to farmers and aspects that will really assist and contribute to the success of their
farm and bottom line,” said Rose.
“ADC has witnessed incredible growth as Australia’s premier dairy forum, and not just the farmer base. ADC 2026 will be a record in attendees, trade exhibitors, side events and in attracting those who wish to be part of conversations at the leading edge of the industry,” she said.
“Delegates value the breadth of topics covered, the speakers they gain access to, and the like-minded connections they create at each event,” Rose said.
The ADC 2026 Program and lineup is the star attraction driving record numbers led by ADC 2026 Programming Chair and Victorian dairy farmer Ella Credlin with the theme ‘More than Milk – Building trust, value & legacy’.
“Dairy today is about more than what we produce, it’s about how we lead, treat people, how we care for animals and land, and how we earn trust. Milk is what we produce. Trust is what we earn. And legacy is what we leave behind,” said Ella.
“I am incredibly proud of the 2026 Program – and the Committee of dedicated industry members that helped put it together – and it is designed to help dairy farmers build future-focused businesses well placed to tackle future challenges and beyond,” she said.
“An incredible speaker line up spearheads ADC 2026 Melbourne and I am certain that mindsets will be challenged, thinking will be provoked, and delegates will walk away armed and ready to make real change in their operations,” said Ella.