For the first time, ARBS Exhibitions is bringing its premier HVACR and building services event to Queensland.
ARBSQLD will be held on August 27-28, 2025 at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC) and recognises the unique market dynamics and infrastructure demands of the Sunshine State.
ARBS Exhibitions CEO, Amanda Searle, said only nine per cent of attendees at ARBS’ major Sydney and Melbourne events historically hail from Queensland.
“Traditionally, Queensland professionals have had to travel interstate to connect with major industry events, which limits engagement,” Searle said.
“By hosting ARBSQLD in Brisbane, we’re directly responding to industry needs, providing accessible opportunities for professional development, innovation exposure and meaningful connections.”
Queensland’s HVACR and building services market is facing distinctive challenges driven by the state’s robust population growth, climatic extremes and ambitious sustainability goals.
With Queensland’s population set to surpass six million by 2032, infrastructure and housing demands are rapidly escalating, intensified further by preparations for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Construction Skills Queensland forecasts a 50 per cent increase in the state's construction pipeline by 2026–27, climbing to an unprecedented $77 billion.
This exponential growth creates both opportunities and pressures within the HVAC&R sector, requiring immediate industry responses to skill shortages, technology advancement and sustainable solutions.
“Skill shortages remain one of the most pressing issues in our industry,” Searle said.
“Events like ARBSQLD offer critical opportunities for upskilling and knowledge sharing, essential for attracting and retaining talent, addressing workforce shortfalls and meeting growing demand.”
Indeed, the construction industry nationally is experiencing significant labour shortages, with Queensland particularly affected due to its expanding infrastructure agenda.
Data indicates a shortfall of over 40,300 workers required to meet projected public infrastructure needs by 2026.
Initiatives such as ARBSQLD become invaluable platforms for education, training pathways and the promotion of modern apprenticeships.
ARBSQLD will host more than 100 exhibitors, showcasing the latest advancements in energy-efficient technologies, innovative cooling solutions, smart building management systems and sustainable HVACR practices tailored explicitly for Queensland’s climate conditions.
“Queensland’s climate which spans subtropical to tropical zones is uniquely positioned as a testing ground for cutting-edge HVACR innovation,” Searle said.
“ARBSQLD is a platform where the industry can come together to collaborate on practical solutions addressing local challenges, sustainability targets and efficiency demands.”
Adding an additional layer of urgency to these issues is the looming Brisbane 2032 Olympics which represents both a monumental challenge and opportunity.
“The Games provide the catalyst to our industry to fast-track innovation and sustainable infrastructure practices,” Searle said.
“HVACR and building services systems developed now will form a lasting legacy, influencing the region's climate resilience for decades.”
Not to be understated are the global trade tensions and ongoing supply chain disruptions that continue to highlight the importance of local capability building and industry collaboration.
Australia’s HVACR industry, valued at approximately $2.8 billion annually, is grappling with material price hikes, labour constraints and shifting international refrigerant policies.
“In response, we're seeing manufacturers are increasingly pivoting towards sustainable, tailored systems, solutions that will be featured at ARBSQLD,” Searle said.
“ARBSQLD is an essential event in the calendar to strengthen local capabilities and networks. It’s about future-proofing our industry and economy.
“Bringing the event directly to Queensland is a deliberate step to help amplify regional voices and solutions at a time when collaborative innovation has never been more critical.”
Attendance to ARBSQLD is free, making it highly accessible for the entire industry, secure your attendance by registering at www.arbs.com.au/arbsqld.