Join us for the 44th Annual Trade Expo & Conference!Located at the Fullerton Hotel Sydney, 12-13 September 2025 |
Join locksmithing professionals from across Australia and New Zealand for two action-packed days of learning, networking and industry updates at one of Sydney’s most iconic hotels. What's On | Visit Sydney | Program | Speakers | Pricing | Exhibitors |
Trade Expo & Learning LabsSee the latest tools, products, and innovations from leading suppliers and manufacturers. Chat with exhibitors, get hands-on, and discover what’s new in the locksmithing world. Our Learning Labs, held within the expo, are run by exhibitors sharing product updates and demonstrations in focused, interactive sessions. Click here to see our Exhibitors! | Conference & Training SessionsHear from industry experts and guest speakers on the latest in locksmithing, business, and technology. These sessions run throughout Friday & Saturday and are included with Full Registration or Trade Expo & Conference Only tickets. Don’t miss the opportunity to gain insights, ask questions, and stay ahead in your field. View the Conference program and list of speakers here. |
Gala Dinner & Awards NightCelebrate excellence, network with peers, and enjoy entertainment and awards at our Gala Dinner & Awards Night! Held at Sydney Town Hall on Sat 13 Sep from 6 - 12am. With entertainment (to be announced) and a live DJ, it’s set to be a fantastic evening of fun. Dance the night away, catch up with old friends, and make new ones at our unmissable Gala Dinner. We’ll be presenting awards for JAAOTY 2025, Shop of the Year (over 400sqm & under 400sqm), Van of the Year, and Ute of the Year. | Visit SydneyCome for the Conference, stay for a holiday! Make your conference experience even more memorable by exploring one of the world’s most iconic cities. From harbourside walks and coastal views to top dining spots and cultural landmarks, Sydney is full of reasons to extend your stay. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, you’ll find plenty to enjoy just moments from the conference venue. Plan your visit - where to stay & what to do |
Discover SydneyWhy not make the most of your time in Sydney and turn your conference trip into a short break? Whether you’re coming solo, with colleagues, or bringing family, there’s plenty to see, do, and enjoy in this stunning harbour city. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, here are just a few ways to experience Sydney:
With beautiful spring weather, walkable neighbourhoods, and plenty of attractions near the conference venue, Sydney is the perfect place to mix business with a little holiday. Looking for ideas? Visit sydney.com for inspiration and recommendations. |
AccommodationStay in Style at The Fullerton Hotel SydneyThe 44th Annual Trade Expo & Conference will be held at the iconic Fullerton Hotel Sydney, located in the heart of the city’s vibrant CBD. Set in a beautifully restored heritage building, this luxury hotel offers spacious rooms, premium amenities, and easy access to Sydney’s best dining, shopping, and attractions. We’ve secured special conference rates exclusively for our attendees. Click here to book with the Master Locksmiths discount Please note: Rooms are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so book early to avoid missing out. Other Accommodation OptionsThere are also many other places to stay nearby to suit a range of budgets and preferences - from boutique hotels and serviced apartments to budget-friendly options. With so many choices in central Sydney, you’re sure to find something that works for you. |
Time | Topic | Speaker |
09:20 - 09:30 | Master of Ceremonies – opening comments | Benjamin Wash – CEO, Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia (“MLAA”) |
09:30 - 10:15 | President’s year in review and MLAA’s activities that will contribute to “Securing Our Future” | Martin Coote – President, Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia (“MLAA”) |
10:30 - 11:00 | Keynote Session: | Dave O’Toole – President, European Locksmith Federation (“ELF”) & Board member of the Association of Locksmiths of America (“ALOA”) |
11:00 - 11:15 | Attracting and retaining apprentices to secure future generations of locksmiths
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Chris Dale - General Manager – Strategy and Design, MEGT
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11:15 - 11:30 | The importance of a National Private Security Act that includes the definition of a “locksmith” | Bryan de Caires – CEO, Australian Security Industry Association Limited (“ASIAL”) |
11:30 - 12:00 | Panel discussion about "Securing Our Future" | Facilitated by: Benjamin Wash Panellists: |
13:30 - 14:15 | Member forum: MLAA Constitution Review and why it is relevant to “Securing Our Future” | Kathy Nguyen – Senior Lawyer, Governology |
14:30 - 15:15 | How, through social media, your actions can contribute to “Securing Our Future” | Lyall Mercer – Principal, CRC Public Relations |
15:30 - 16:15 | Best Selling Author & Media Commentator: | Michael McQueen – Futurist |
Time | Topic | Speaker |
09:00 - 10:00 | Annual General Meeting | |
10:30 - 11:15 | To be advised | Corey Glanville – Teacher, NSW TAFE |
11:30 - 12:15 | Airbag training | Fraser Burns – Teacher, LockTech Training |
13:30 - 14:15 | Panel discussion: Training year in review and how TAFE’s activities will contribute to “Securing Our Future” | Facilitated by: Benjamin Wash Panellists:
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Benjamin WashCEO, Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia ("MLAA") Benjamin is a qualified CPA with nearly 30 years of experience across finance, accounting, public policy and advocacy. After nearly 15 years in various local, state and federal government roles, found his passion for advocacy and member services as senior executive in trade associations. He has distinguished himself in roles with Master Electricians Australia and Taxi Council Queensland before attaining his CPA Public Practice Certificate and consulting extensively in the not-for-profit sector. Session: Fri, 12 Sep | 09:20 - 09:30 |
Martin CootePresident, Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia ("MLAA") Martin Coote is the second-generation operator of his family’s locksmith businesses based in Sydney. He joined the board of Master Locksmiths in 2022 as NSW/ACT Regional Director. Martin was elected President in October 2023 and in that time he has overseen the recruitment of a new Chief Executive and fronted a national media campaign against scammers. Martin’s previous directorships include three years as Chair of St Marys Town Centre and Director of the Self Storage Association of Australasia, where he remains a member of the Audit, Finance and Risk Committee. Session: Fri, 12 Sep | 09:30 - 10:15 |
Dave O'TooleKeynote Speaker | President, European Locksmith Federation (“ELF”) & Board member of the Association of Locksmiths of America (“ALOA”) Dave O’ Toole has been in the locksmith industry for 40 years. He has owned a locksmith business in Dublin and Belfast in Ireland with a retail stores and service vans. He is very involved with the global electronic locking industry and has developed and patented handsfree access technology for the elderly and persons with disabilities. He has been president of the European Locksmith Federation for 20 years, representing the European national locksmith associations with manufacturers and legislation. He currently serves as the international director of ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America). Keynote Session: Fri, 12 Sep | 10:30 - 11:00 |
Chris DaleGeneral Manager – Strategy and Design, MEGT Chris has spent more than 16 years in his chosen field, a career which has taken him across both Australia and the United Kingdom. He is passionate about developing projects to help the disadvantaged and working with stakeholders to create sustainable education and employment pathways. When he’s not helping others carve their career pathways, Chris loves competing in trail runs and Ironman triathlons while studying law and spending time with his wife and three daughters. Session: Fri, 12 Sep | 11:00 - 11:15 |
Bryan de CairesCEO, Australian Security Industry Association Limited (“ASIAL”) Bryan de Caires is CEO of the Australian Security Industry Association Limited (ASIAL), the peak body for security professionals in Australia. He has over 30 years management experience, including with Euromoney Publications, Terrapinn and the Australian Human Resources Institute. Bryan serves on a number of Standards Australia Committees, Industry Advisory Groups and was a Director of NSW Crime Stoppers from 2002-2014. Session: Fri, 12 Sep | 11:15 - 11:30 |
Kathy NguyenSenior Lawyer, Governology Kathy Nguyen is a lawyer with extensive experience working with associations both nationally and in Asia-Pacific. Her speciality is association structure, operations and governance and she has 20 years’ experience working with associations as a senior manager or advisor. In her work, she has reviewed hundreds of constitutions, and regularly presents to organisations on membership, governance and events. Session: Fri, 12 Sep | 13:30 - 14:15 |
Lyall MercerPrincipal, CRC Public Relations Lyall Mercer is the lead strategist at CRC Public Relations. He is a leading public relations practitioner in the areas of corporate communications and reputation and issues management, and has worked with many industry associations. He is a trusted adviser to companies, organisations, and governments and has dealt with clients and media on every continent. He is also the head of content at My PR Partner, which was recently started to help businesses of all sizes better understand public relations. Session: Fri, 12 Sep | 14:30 - 15:15 |
Michael McQueenFuturist Award-Winning Speaker and Bestselling Author, Inspiring Strategies for Thriving in a Changing World. Recently ranked #12 among the world’s top futurists. Having presented to over 500,000 people across five continents since 2004, Michael is a familiar face on the international conference circuit, sharing the stage with Bill Gates, Mel Robbins, and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak. Formerly named Australia’s Keynote Speaker of the Year, Michael has also been inducted into the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame. Session: Fri, 12 Sep | 15:30 - 16:15 |
Best Value12.5% discount vs buying separately! |
Includes 1 person entry to: Full Registration |
Gala Dinner & Awards Only |
Trade Expo & Conference Only |
Trade Expo Only |
Includes 1 person entry to:Full Registration |
Gala Dinner & Awards Only |
Trade Expo & Conference Only |
Trade Expo Only |
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