As Chair of the 2026 National Conference Business Programme Committee, it is my great privilege to welcome you to the 50th anniversary Energy and Resources Law Conference—an important milestone reflecting both the enduring strength of our profession and the critical role our sector plays in shaping Australia’s economic and strategic future.Over five decades, this conference has evolved alongside the industries it serves. Today, the energy, mining, resources, renewables and emerging space sectors sit at the centre of global transformation—driven by decarbonisation, technological innovation, geopolitical complexity and capital reallocation at unprecedented scale. Australia’s position within this landscape is both influential and consequential, underpinned by its resource endowment, regulatory frameworks and legal expertise. This year’s programme will bring together an exciting mix of leading private practitioners, in-house counsel and industry experts to examine the opportunities, investment drivers and risk considerations that will shape the next chapter of our sector. It also provides a platform to reconnect with alumni whose contributions over the past 50 years have shaped the foundations on which we now build. As we reflect on enduring aspects of our collective history, we do so with a clear focus on the future—challenging assumptions, interrogating emerging trends and equipping ourselves to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected global environment. I look forward to the discussions ahead and to the insights that will emerge from this exceptional gathering of leaders across the energy and resources legal community.

Kate Bickford

HWLE Lawyers