- About
- Become an intern
- Become a partner
- Alumni
- Universities
- High school program
- News
- Careers
- Contact
- LDI 2026
Register
Log in
Conference Overview
Something truly historic awaits in February 2026.
CareerTrackers will bring together the largest gathering of First Nations university students, alumni, industry and university partners for a week of leadership, learning and celebration.
Over three transformative days, more than 1,500 participants will converge in Sydney for the Leadership Development Institute (LDI), the National Gala Awards Dinner and the National Alumni Conference, a landmark series of events designed to strengthen pathways from university to career success, community contribution and leadership, and to showcase First Nations excellence on the national and global stage.
This year’s program carries extraordinary significance. CareerTrackers will proudly host Martin Luther King III, whose visit to Australia will connect Dr King’s enduring legacy of justice and equality with the ongoing story of Indigenous leadership and empowerment in Australia.
The CareerTrackers model itself traces its roots to the pioneering U.S. INROADS program — founded after its creator stood in the crowd for Dr King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. In 2026, that legacy comes full circle.
Mr King’s presence will amplify First Nations voices, inspire a new generation of Indigenous professionals and celebrate the partnership between students, universities and employers who are building a stronger, more inclusive future.
Wednesday 4 February to Friday 6 February
Sydney Olympic Park, Wangal Country
LDI is the heart of the CareerTrackers internship experience and mandatory for interns. It’s a national gathering where more than 400 interns from across Australia come together to connect, learn and grow as a part of their internship program and CareerTrackers’ curriculum.
Across three days, participants will hear from some of Australia’s most influential First Nations and industry leaders, engage in workshops to build confidence, communication and leadership skills and form lifelong networks of support.
Thursday 5 February 2026
6pm to 10pm
International Convention Centre, Darling Harbour, Sydney, Gadigal Country
The CareerTrackers National Gala Awards Dinner is our signature celebration and is an unforgettable evening of recognition, storytelling and inspiration.
Bringing together over 1,500 guests, including interns, alumni, corporate partners and university leaders, the Gala honours the achievements of our interns and alumni and the organisations who champion their success.
Each year, ten national awards are presented to individuals and partners who exemplify excellence, leadership and a commitment to creating opportunities for the next generation of First Nations professionals.
In 2026, the Gala will be elevated to historic significance as Martin Luther King III joins the celebration as keynote speaker, connecting Dr King’s global legacy of equality and empowerment with the continuing story of First Nations excellence and leadership in Australia.
This landmark event will shine a national and global spotlight on Indigenous achievement, celebrating the partnerships and people who are shaping a more just and prosperous future.
If you’re an intern, alumnus, manager or business coordinator, you can nominate someone for the National Gala Awards.
Thursday 5 February to Friday 6 February
South Eveleigh, Sydney, Gadigal Country
The CareerTrackers National Alumni Conference brings together over 200 Indigenous professionals for two days of leadership development, peer connection and shared inspiration.
Designed for CareerTrackers alumni who are now making their mark across business, government and community, the conference provides a platform to reunite with their former intern peers, reflect on progress, build new capabilities and collaborate on the future of Indigenous leadership.
Sessions will explore emerging themes such as capital markets, digital fluency, entrepreneurship and social impact alongside workshops on communication, negotiation and personal leadership.
This year’s program will also include opportunities to engage with global guests, including Martin Luther King III, and to contribute to a shared national dialogue on Indigenous excellence, innovation and legacy.
