Productivity and profitability in focus at 2025 National Olive Conference
A good olive business makes great EVOO and olives, right? Yes, but we all know it’s really only a good business if it’s sustainable, and that means it has to grow a decent crop and also pay its way – preferably with profit on top! With that in mind, the program for the 2025 AOA National Olive Industry Conference & Exhibition features topics focusing firmly on this year’s theme of Productivity and profitability.
The theme builds on the success of the AOA’s Back to Basics (B2B) field day program, with feedback from growers at all experience levels that what they want to know more about is the fundamentals of olive growing and running a successful olive business. The program builds on that information, looking at the nitty-gritty of olive production and then expanding from there with topics covering wider issues around profitability.
Being held at the Hotel Grand Chancellor, Adelaide, the two-day plenary program starts with a look at the global industry and current consumer market, before moving on to one of the most significant issues for most Australian growers – water. The topic is covered in depth with a practical focus, with sessions on Forecasting drought, How much water do my olives need – and when?, Irrigation systems for olives, Irrigating high density groves, Rehabilitating drought affected olive trees through pruning, and Varietal suitability and productivity.
Staying in the grove, Day 2 sessions include Olive Strategic Agrichemicals Review – what is available, for what and when can I use them?, Compost – is it that good?, Harvest timing and extension growth, and What machinery do I really need?, alongside more ‘business’ focussed sessions covering Benchmarking and why it’s important, Marketing 101 – a big hurdle for many producers – and an update on the fabulous work of the Olive Wellness Institute in educating about the health benefits of olive products.
The program continues with a full afternoon session focussed firmly on Table olives, sharing information around a new scalable and environmentally-sustainable production process recently developed by Australian scientists and producers, followed by a guided table olive tasting.
Throughout it all there’ll be ongoing opportunities for questions, answers and discussion, providing information and inspiration for producers across all levels of the industry.
The last elements of the program are still being finalised but you can see the current draft program on the Conference website here. Further details will be updated as they’re confirmed.
Event program, 28-30 October 2025:
Tuesday 28 Field Tour, Fleurieu Peninsula region (optional)
Wednesday 29 Plenary sessions, Industry Trade Exhibition, Conference Dinner
Thursday 30 Plenary Program, Industry Trade Exhibition
2025 Australian International Olive Awards Presentation Dinner (optional)
The AOA has organised a special delegate rate for rooms at the venue, so book directly here to secure your accommodation at the discounted rate.
Platinum Sponsor
Supporting Sponsors
R&D Event Partner
The National Olive Conference & Trade Exhibition is facilitated by the Australian Olive Association, partially funded by Hort Innovation using the Olive R&D levy, with in-kind contributions from the Australian Olive Association and funding from the Australian Government. The event is also supported by industry sponsors and exhibitors.