Corporate Affairs Directors 'Welcome to 2026'

12 Feb 2026

The first Corporate Affairs gathering of 2026 brought together senior Corporate Affairs, Communications and Reputation leaders for an evening focused on protecting and strengthening trust amid AI-driven misinformation, rising scrutiny and political volatility. The discussion examined how the rapidly changing information environment was reshaping the role of corporate affairs leaders in managing reputation and stakeholder expectations.

Participants explored the challenges posed by AI-generated misinformation, accelerating news cycles and shifting political and regulatory expectations, alongside the need to respond quickly while maintaining credibility and trust. The panel provided practical perspectives on navigating reputational risks and effectively engaging employees, customers, communities and government.

The evening provided a focused and forward-looking forum for leaders to exchange insights, share perspectives and consider the priorities shaping the Corporate Affairs agenda for 2026.

The Venue
BUPA (Seminar Room), 33 Exhibition Street, Melbourne

Event Speakers

Lucy Newcomb
Director
Salt & Shein
Melissa O'Neill
Chief Corporate Affairs Officer
Bunnings
Mark Alexander
Executive Communications
NAB
Roger Sharp
Chief Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer, Apac
Bupa