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 


What's On

Whether you’re a seasoned locksmith industry member or a newcomer looking to make connections, there’s something for everyone!

We explore the latest trends shaping our unique sector across Australasia, with opportunities to network and refresh high on this year's agenda.

Trade Expo & Learning Labs

See 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 Sessions

Hear 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 Night

Celebrate 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 Sydney

Come 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 Sydney

Why 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:

  • Take in the sights: Walk along Circular Quay, take a tour of the Sydney Opera House, or climb the Harbour Bridge for unbeatable views.

  • Explore local culture: Wander through the historic laneways of The Rocks, visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, or catch a performance at the State Theatre.

  • Relax outdoors: Swim or surf at Bondi Beach, stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden, or hop on a ferry to Manly.

  • Eat and drink: Enjoy world-class dining in Barangaroo, fresh seafood at the Sydney Fish Market, or a casual drink with a view at Opera Bar.

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.



Accommodation

Stay in Style at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

The 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 Options

There 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.



Program

Full Registration / Trade Expo & Conference Tickets Only

Friday, 12 Sep 2025  |  Conference Sessions

Time

Topic

Speaker

09:20 - 09:30Master of Ceremonies – opening comments Benjamin Wash – CEO, Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia (“MLAA”)
09:30 - 10:15President’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:
Global locksmith trends, risks and opportunities

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

Chris Dale - General Manager – Strategy and Design, MEGT

11:15 - 11:30The 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 - 12:00Panel discussion about "Securing Our Future"

Facilitated by: Benjamin Wash

Panellists:
Martin Coote
Dave O’Toole
Chris Dale
Bryan de Caires

13:30 - 14:15Member forum: MLAA Constitution Review and why it is relevant to “Securing Our Future” Kathy Nguyen – Senior Lawyer, Governology
14:30 - 15:15How, 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:
Insights into the future and what steps MLAA and the locksmithing industry may be able to take towards “Securing Our Future”

Michael McQueen – Futurist


Saturday 13 Sep 2025  |  AGM & Training Sessions

Time

Topic

Speaker

09:00 - 10:00Annual General Meeting
10:30 - 11:15To be advisedCorey 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:
Mark Wilson (Head Teacher, NSW TAFE)
Mark Smith (Head Teacher, QLD TAFE)
Thomas Van Der Sommen (Head Teacher, WA TAFE)
Natalie Ball (Head Teacher, Melbourne Polytechnic)
Kim Munden (Head Teacher, LockTech Training)




Speakers

Full Registration / Trade Expo & Conference Tickets Only

Our speakers are industry leaders, ready to share valuable insights and strategies. Don't miss the chance to learn from the best!


Benjamin Wash

CEO, 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
Master of Ceremonies - opening comments


Martin Coote

President, 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
President’s year in review & MLAA’s activities that will contribute to “Securing Our Future” 


Dave O'Toole

Keynote 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
Global locksmith trends, risks and opportunities


Chris Dale

General 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
Attracting and retaining apprentices to secure future generations of locksmiths


Bryan de Caires

CEO, 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
The importance of a National Private Security Act that includes the definition of a “locksmith”


Kathy Nguyen

Senior 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
Member forum: MLAA Constitution Review and why it is relevant to “Securing Our Future”


Lyall Mercer

Principal, 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
How, through social media, your actions can contribute to “Securing Our Future”


Michael McQueen

Futurist

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
Insights into the future and what steps MLAA and the locksmithing industry may be able to take towards “Securing Our Future”



Registration - Early Bird until 11 August

Best Value

12.5% discount vs buying separately!


$350

Early Bird PP

$525

Full Price PP

Member
Full Registration

Includes 1 person entry to: 
  • Thu 11 Sep: Registration welcome drinks
  • Fri 12 Sep: Trade expo & learning labs + conference speakers + meals + sponsored drinks
  • Sat 13 Sep: Trade expo & learning labs + training sessions + meals + 1 TICKET to gala dinner & awards night
  • Register up to 5 additional guests TRADE EXPO ONLY for $50 per person


$250

Early Bird PP

$300

Full Price PP

Member
Gala Dinner & Awards Only

Includes 1 person entry to:

  • Sat 13 Sep: Gala dinner & awards night

NB: Does not include trade expo & learning labs, Friday conference speakers and Saturday training sessions


$150

Early Bird PP

$300

Full Price PP

Member
Trade Expo & Conference Only

Includes 1 person entry to:

  • Thu 11 Sep: Registration welcome drinks
  • Fri 12 Sep: Trade expo & learning labs + conference speakers + meals + sponsored drinks
  • Sat 13 Sep: Trade expo & learning labs + training sessions + meals

NB: Does not include gala dinner & awards


$100

Early Bird PP

$200

Full Price PP

Member
Trade Expo Only

Includes 1 person entry to:

  • Thu 11 Sep: Registration welcome drinks
  • Fri 12 Sep: Trade expo & learning labs + meals + sponsored drinks
  • Sat 13 Sep: Trade expo & learning labs + meals

NB: Does not include Friday conference speakers and Saturday training sessions or gala dinner & awards


$525

Early Bird PP

$660

Full Price PP

Non-Member
Full Registration

Includes 1 person entry to:
  • Thu 11 Sep: Registration welcome drinks
  • Fri 12 Sep: Trade expo & learning labs + conference speakers + meals + sponsored drinks
  • Sat 13 Sep: Trade expo & learning labs + training sessions + meals + gala dinner & awards night
  • Register up to 5 additional guests TRADE EXPO ONLY for $100 per person


$300

Early Bird PP

$350

Full Price PP

Non-Member
Gala Dinner & Awards Only

Includes 1 person entry to:

  • Sat 13 Sep: Gala dinner & awards night

NB: Does not include trade expo & learning labs, Friday conference speakers and Saturday training sessions


$300

Early Bird PP

$450

Full Price PP

Non-Member
Trade Expo & Conference Only

Includes 1 person entry to:

  • Thu 11 Sep: Registration welcome drinks
  • Fri 12 Sep: Trade expo & learning labs + conference speakers + meals + sponsored drinks
  • Sat 13 Sep: Trade expo & learning labs + training sessions + meals

NB: Does not include gala dinner & awards


$200

Early Bird PP

$300

Full Price PP

Non-Member
Trade Expo Only

Includes 1 person entry to:

  • Thu 11 Sep: Registration welcome drinks
  • Fri 12 Sep: Trade expo & learning labs + meals + sponsored drinks
  • Sat 13 Sep: Trade expo & learning labs + meals

NB: Does not include Friday conference speakers and Saturday training sessions or gala dinner & awards

Don't miss out - Early Bird Prices available until August 11!

Exhibitors









Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia Ltd, Ground Floor, 470 St Kilda Road,
Melbourne VIC 3004

+61 3 9994 1557
8:30am to 5:30pm - Monday to Friday
(Melbourne, Australia time) business days (excluding public holidays)
For out of hours enquiries, please email below:

support@masterlocksmiths.com.au

        

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