Momentum Media’s Defence brand, Defence Connect, is set to launch a landmark new event in 2026 that puts action – not rhetoric – at the centre of Australia’s diversity conversation within Defence.
The Progress Report Luncheon is a new initiative from Defence Connect that spotlights the tangible progress being made to advance women in Australia’s defence sector.
Debuting on Thursday, 26 March 2026, at Doltone House Darling Island, Pyrmont, The Progress Report Luncheon will bring together senior leaders from Defence, industry, and government for a powerful and pragmatic look at how Australia is advancing opportunities for women across the sector.
Unlike traditional forums, The Progress Report Luncheon is designed to go deeper – spotlighting real progress, real barriers, and real solutions. Built around candid conversations and lived experience, this inaugural event promises an unfiltered examination of what’s working, what’s changing, and what still needs to shift to build a stronger, more inclusive Defence workforce.
Attendees will hear directly from influential leaders who are embedding diversity as a strategic capability and reshaping organisational culture from the inside out. Our speaker line-up so far, includes Rear Admiral Letitia van Stralen AM, CSC, RAN, Professor Tanya Monro AC, Francesca Rush, Anntonette Dailey, Leisa Craig, Dr Oleksandra Molloy and Sari Mustonen-Kirk.
With collaboration between Defence and industry accelerating, the luncheon will also explore how aligned efforts are creating clearer pathways and greater visibility for women pursuing long-term careers in Defence.
View the agenda and current speakers here.
The event offers a unique opportunity to:
Open to professionals across Defence, industry, and government, The Progress Report Luncheon invites both women and men who want to be part of meaningful progress – not just the conversation around it.
With the future of Australia’s Defence capability tied to attracting, retaining, and empowering its talent, this event sets a new benchmark for dialogue that drives outcomes.
The Defence sector is moving – and the The Progress Report Luncheon is where you’ll see how far.
Click here to learn more about the luncheon.
To secure your ticket, visit our registration portal here.