Institute of Quarrying Australia chief executive officer Jane Schmitt shares an update with members about the current progress of the IQA.
As we step into 2026, I am excited to share initiatives launching this quarter that will reshape how Australia sees our sector and strengthen our community connections.
That’s Solid: Our national awareness campaign
Our first national public awareness campaign, ‘That’s Solid’, launches in February. The campaign’s tagline reflects the reliability and stability of our sector; a modern, relatable phrase that speaks to the solid foundations that quarries provide, not just in materials, but in opportunities for people and communities.
The campaign features real stories from IQA members, an interactive career quiz, education resources targeting schools and communities, and connections to local quarries across Australia.
Concurrently, we’re also launching a dedicated school to workforce hub on our website following our comprehensive 2025 research.
The hub provides practical resources for students, educators, and employers including career pathway diagrams, comprehensive career profiles, work experience toolkits, and personal story videos.
Together, the national public awareness campaign and the school to workforce hub create an integrated approach to addressing workforce challenges and reshaping public perceptions of our sector.
The 2026 national conference
Australia’s quarrying sector comes together on the Gold Coast from October 6-8, 2026, for three days of expert insights, technology showcases, and unrivalled networking. The conference features more than 50 presentations, 100 exhibitors, the IQA national awards, site visits, and networking dinners.
Pre-sale registration is now open.
Our 2026 Safety and Health conferences are also confirmed: VIC (March 27), NSW (May 13-14), QLD SEQ (June 4), and QLD NQLD (July 29).
Building on 2025 momentum
In early 2026, we’re launching our member survey to help shape the 2026-2029 strategic plan.
Many initiatives from our last survey are now in place: our inaugural free IQA mentoring program, free professional development webinars, our strategic advisory partnership with William Buck, the redeveloped IQA website, and the IQA Connect app.
Our IQA Connect member app launched in 2025 and is transforming how members connect and collaborate. If you have not downloaded the app yet, now is the time.
IQA Connect strengthens professional relationships and knowledge sharing, allowing you to stay informed, share insights, ask questions, and engage with colleagues from anywhere in Australia. With so much in progress, I encourage all members to take advantage of the resources and networking opportunities available throughout the year.
Your engagement drives our collective success, and I look forward to connecting with many of you at events in 2026.
Jane Schmitt
Chief Executive Officer
Institute of Quarrying Australia
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