25 Best Keynote Speakers on AI in Australia and New Zealand (2026)
- Jonno White
- Mar 11
- 22 min read
Artificial intelligence is the dominant topic at corporate events across Australia and New Zealand in 2026, and finding the right AI keynote speaker for your next conference, leadership summit, or team development day has never been more important. According to the Australian Government's National AI Centre, AI adoption across Australian businesses has accelerated dramatically, with organisations in every sector scrambling to understand what AI means for their operations, their people, and their competitive position.
The challenge for event planners is that the AI speaking market has exploded. Speaker bureaus across the region now list dozens of speakers under their artificial intelligence category, and many motivational speakers have quietly added AI to their biography without genuine expertise to back it up. Separating the speakers who can genuinely help your audience navigate AI from those riding the hype wave requires careful evaluation.
This directory is the most comprehensive resource available for event planners, conference producers, and organisational leaders searching for the best AI keynote speakers across Australia and New Zealand. It covers 25 speakers across multiple categories, evaluation criteria for selecting the right fit, fee guidance, and a step by step framework for making the right choice.
At the top of our list is Jonno White, and here is why. Jonno White is a Certified Working Genius Facilitator, bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out with over 10,000 copies sold globally, and a keynote speaker who works with schools, corporates, and nonprofits around the world. When organisations face AI disruption, the real challenge is rarely the technology itself. It is the leadership, team dynamics, and culture change required to adopt it well. That is exactly where Jonno delivers.
To book Jonno White for your next keynote, workshop, or facilitation session, email jonno@consultclarity.org.
How We Ranked These Speakers
Selecting the right AI keynote speaker requires more than browsing a speaker bureau website and picking the most recognisable name. The speakers in this directory were evaluated across six dimensions designed specifically for the corporate and conference context.
First, expertise and credentials. Does the speaker have genuine, verifiable experience in artificial intelligence? We prioritised speakers with technical backgrounds, published research, successful AI ventures, or proven track records of advising organisations on AI strategy.
Second, track record and results. Can the speaker demonstrate measurable impact from their keynotes? We looked for client testimonials, satisfaction ratings, repeat bookings, and evidence of audience transformation.
Third, methodology and approach. Does the speaker offer a clear framework that audiences can implement? The best AI keynote speakers provide actionable takeaways, not just inspiring stories.
Fourth, service delivery options. Can they deliver keynotes, workshops, executive roundtables, fireside chats, and virtual presentations? Flexibility matters for modern event planning.
Fifth, audience customisation. Will they tailor content to your specific industry, audience maturity level, and organisational challenges?
Sixth, value and investment. Does their fee align with the impact they deliver? Premium speakers who deliver frameworks and follow up resources often provide better ROI than celebrity names who deliver entertainment without substance.
1. Jonno White, Consult Clarity
Location: Brisbane, Australia (works globally)
Best for: Organisations navigating AI disruption who need leadership, team, and culture keynotes rather than technical AI demos. Schools, corporates, and nonprofits seeking a speaker who combines practical frameworks with engaging delivery.
When artificial intelligence disrupts your industry, the technology is rarely the problem. The problem is that leaders avoid the difficult conversations about what needs to change, teams resist new ways of working because they do not understand each other's strengths, and culture stagnates because nobody has a shared language for navigating uncertainty. Jonno White, bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out with over 10,000 copies sold globally, is a Certified Working Genius Facilitator delivering the world's fastest growing team assessment, completed by over 1.3 million people globally in less than five years.
Jonno does not deliver generic AI keynotes. He delivers keynotes on the human side of disruption, which is precisely what most organisations get wrong. His keynote Fuel or Drain? Finding the Energy Drivers That Propel You and Your Team helps leaders understand why certain types of work energise some team members while draining others, a critical insight when organisations are restructuring around AI capabilities. His keynote Unity in Motion: Leading Through Rapid Change and Growth addresses the leadership challenge of maintaining alignment when technology is transforming every aspect of how teams operate.
As host of The Leadership Conversations Podcast with over 230 episodes reaching listeners in more than 150 countries and founder of The 7 Questions Movement with over 6,000 participating leaders, Jonno brings a depth of leadership insight that pure technology speakers simply cannot match. He achieved a 93.75% satisfaction rating at the ASBA 2025 National Conference, one of the highest rated sessions at the event.
Jonno is a trusted facilitator across Australia, the UK, USA, Singapore, Canada, New Zealand, India, and Europe. International travel is often far more affordable than clients expect, and many organisations find that flying Jonno in costs less than engaging high profile local providers. Whether virtual or face to face, Jonno offers keynotes, half day and full day workshops, executive team offsites, and MC services.
Available keynote topics: Step Up or Step Out: Conflict Without Confrontation. Replace Yourself: Transform Your Organisation Without Overwhelming Your Staff. Unity in Motion: Leading Through Rapid Change and Growth. Building a High Performing Team: Creating a Culture That Soars. Communication That Connects: Navigating Different Personalities. Fuel or Drain? Finding the Energy Drivers That Propel You and Your Team. Empowering Middle Managers: How to Lead Up with Integrity.
Available workshops: Working Genius: The World's Fastest Growing Assessment for Building Better Teams. Behaviors That Bond: Mastering DISC to Drive Team Collaboration. StrengthsFinder Amplified: Transforming Your Unique Talents into Breakthrough Results.
To book Jonno White for your next event, email jonno@consultclarity.org.
2. Amanda Johnstone, Transhuman
Location: Sydney/Hobart, Australia
Best for: Large corporate events and leadership summits wanting a globally recognised voice on human centred AI and ethical technology adoption.
Amanda Johnstone is one of Australia's most recognised AI technologists and communicators. Named a TIME Next Generation Leader, LinkedIn Top Voice in Artificial Intelligence, and CEO Magazine Start up Executive of the Year, Amanda brings both technical depth and accessible delivery to the stage. As CEO of Transhuman, she focuses on how organisations can adopt AI responsibly while keeping people at the centre of technological transformation. Amanda's keynotes address the social impact of AI, the future of work, and how leaders can build trust in an AI driven world. She is represented by Saxton Speakers and is one of the most in demand AI speakers across the ANZ circuit.
3. Prof. Toby Walsh, UNSW
Location: Sydney, Australia
Best for: Conferences wanting world class AI academic credibility, AI ethics and policy discussions, and audiences who value research backed insights.
Professor Toby Walsh is one of Australia's most prominent AI researchers and a globally recognised voice on artificial intelligence. A Scientia Professor of AI at UNSW and Laureate Fellow, Toby has been at the forefront of AI research for decades. He is the author of several books on AI including Machines Behaving Badly, and is frequently consulted by government and media on AI policy and ethics. His keynotes combine deep technical knowledge with accessible explanations that resonate with both technical and non technical audiences. Toby is particularly strong on AI governance, the future of autonomous systems, and the societal implications of machine intelligence.
4. Simon Kriss, Sovereign Australia AI
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Best for: Boards, C suite audiences, and organisations wanting practical AI adoption guidance with strong governance and customer experience expertise.
Simon Kriss is a CX and AI futurist who presents to audiences around the world and works with company boards and C suite executives to understand AI opportunities. He is the author of The AI Empowered Customer Experience, co founder of Sovereign Australia AI which is building Australia's own foundational language model, and was named in the 2024 CX Top 50 Global Influencers. Simon holds a Certificate of Disruptive Strategy from Harvard Business School and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. His keynotes are known for cutting through AI hype with practical, real world demonstrations and case studies. He spoke at the United Nations in Geneva at the AI for Developing Countries Forum.
5. Steve Sammartino
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Best for: Corporate events wanting an engaging futurist who connects AI to broader economic, business, and societal trends.
Steve Sammartino is widely regarded as Australia's leading futurist and media commentator on emerging technology. He has spoken to over 200,000 people around the world and is co founder of Sovereign Australia AI alongside Simon Kriss. Steve is the author of The Lessons School Forgot, a survival manifesto for the technological revolution, and has appeared extensively across Australian media including Channel 9. His keynotes connect AI to economics, business strategy, and the changing nature of work, making complex technological trends accessible and actionable. He is an ICMI exclusive speaker.
Looking for a keynote speaker who addresses the human side of AI disruption? Book Jonno White, bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out, for your next event. Email jonno@consultclarity.org.
6. Dr Catriona Wallace
Location: Sydney, Australia
Best for: Events requiring authoritative AI ethics content, women in technology focus, and organisations navigating responsible AI governance frameworks.
Dr Catriona Wallace has been recognised by the Australian Financial Review as the Most Influential Woman in Business and Entrepreneurship. She founded one of the first AI companies to list on the Australian Securities Exchange and co authored the book Checkmate Humanity: the How and Why of Responsible AI. Catriona co chairs Sir Richard Branson's B Team AI Coalition and was inducted into the Royal Institution of Australia as one of the country's most pre eminent scientists. Her keynotes address AI ethics, responsible technology, digital transformation, and diversity and inclusion in technology. She is listed with Celebrity Speakers and Keynote Entertainment.
7. Gihan Perera
Location: Western Australia
Best for: Conferences wanting a seasoned platform speaker who combines AI and future trends with engagement, humour, and practical leadership application.
Gihan Perera is a business futurist, conference speaker, AI researcher, and author who has worked with organisations and leaders throughout Australia and the world for more than 25 years. He is the author of Disrupted, Disruption By Design, The Future of Leadership, and ten other books. Forbes magazine rated him the number five social media influencer in the world in his area of expertise and number one in Australia. He was awarded 2024 Educator of the Year by Professional Speakers Australia and holds the Certified Speaking Professional designation. Gihan's keynotes on AI are practical and actionable, showing audiences how to use tools like ChatGPT in their daily work rather than delivering abstract predictions.
8. Justin Flitter, AI New Zealand
Location: Auckland, New Zealand
Best for: New Zealand based events wanting a local voice who understands the Kiwi business landscape and can deliver practical, hands on AI content.
Justin Flitter is New Zealand's most sought after AI keynote speaker and the founder of AI New Zealand, the country's leading resource for business leaders starting their AI journey. In the last three years he has presented at over 35 conferences, informing and entertaining audiences across a wide range of industries. Justin's approach is practical and punchy. His keynote How Humans Scale Awesome showcases how AI is supercharging human potential at work. He also offers panel discussion add ons and quick fire workshop sessions for attendees to identify practical use cases. Justin is a TEDx Auckland emcee and chair of the NZ Tech Marketers Group.
9. Michael McQueen
Location: Sydney, Australia
Best for: Large conferences and association events wanting a high profile, polished speaker who connects AI to broader trends in disruption, innovation, and influence.
Michael McQueen is a globally renowned keynote speaker, futurist, and bestselling author who helps organisations navigate change and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving world. Ranked among the world's top futurists, he has presented to over 500,000 people across five continents, with clients including Google, Toyota, and Mastercard. Named Australia's Keynote Speaker of the Year and inducted into the Professional Speakers Hall of Fame, Michael delivers engaging presentations on future trends, momentum, and influence. His AI content focuses on how organisations can leverage artificial intelligence while maintaining the human connections that drive business success.
10. Adam Franklin, Bluewire Media
Location: Sunshine Coast, Australia
Best for: Business audiences, professional services firms, and marketing teams wanting practical, hands on AI content they can implement immediately.
Adam Franklin is an AI marketing speaker, bestselling author of Web Marketing That Works, and founder of Bluewire Media. He has delivered over 250 keynotes helping business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals use ChatGPT and AI tools to save time, build authority, and create marketing assets faster. Adam's approach is highly practical. He focuses on AI powered content creation, marketing automation, relationship building at scale, and using AI tools to amplify personal branding. He is particularly effective with accounting, legal, property, and financial services audiences.
Looking for a keynote speaker who addresses the human side of AI disruption? Book Jonno White, bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out, for your next event. Email jonno@consultclarity.org.
11. Stephen Scheeler, Omniscient
Location: Australia/ANZ
Best for: Executive leadership events wanting a former big tech CEO who can speak with authority on AI strategy, digital transformation, and competitive positioning.
Stephen Scheeler is the former CEO of Facebook for Australia and New Zealand and now CEO and co founder of Omniscient. His career has given him a unique vantage point on how artificial intelligence and digital transformation are reshaping business strategy and competitive advantage. Stephen's keynotes draw on direct experience leading one of the world's most influential technology companies and now building AI driven solutions. He speaks on AI leadership, digital disruption, the future of business, and how organisations can position themselves to thrive in an AI economy. He is listed with ICMI, Celebrity Speakers, and Keynote Entertainment.
12. Tracey Spicer AM
Location: Sydney, Australia
Best for: Events focused on AI ethics, gender equality in technology, social justice, and media. Particularly strong for audiences wanting investigative journalism credibility.
Tracey Spicer AM is a multiple Walkley Award winning journalist, author, and broadcaster with over 30 years of experience anchoring national programs. As the inaugural national convenor of Women in Media, she is a leading advocate for gender equality. Her book Man Made was longlisted for a Walkley Award and won an Australian Business Book Award. Tracey specialises in AI, social justice, and equity. She has been honoured with the Sydney Peace Prize and the NSW Premier's Woman of the Year. Her AI keynotes examine the intersection of artificial intelligence and societal impact, particularly around bias, fairness, and responsible development.
13. Ross Dawson, Advanced Human Technologies
Location: Sydney, Australia
Best for: Strategy focused events wanting a globally recognised futurist who can connect AI to organisational strategy, human augmentation, and competitive advantage.
Ross Dawson is a globally recognised futurist, bestselling author, and LinkedIn Top Voice who has been advising organisations on the intersection of humans and technology for over two decades. He is the founder of Advanced Human Technologies Group and speaks on how AI augments human capabilities, strategic foresight, and the future of business. Ross brings rigorous research and practical frameworks to the stage, helping leaders understand not just what AI can do but how to build organisations that thrive alongside it. He is listed with Saxton and Platinum Speakers.
14. Dr Mahsa McCauley, AUT
Location: Auckland, New Zealand
Best for: New Zealand events wanting academic credibility on AI policy, research, and innovation. Government and education sector conferences.
Dr Mahsa McCauley is an Associate Professor at AUT and chair of the AI Forum of New Zealand, the country's peak body for artificial intelligence. She also serves as a UNESCO New Zealand Commissioner. Her keynotes address AI policy, research, innovation, and the intersection of technology with education and society. Mahsa brings deep academic credentials combined with practical understanding of how AI is being adopted across New Zealand industries. She is represented by Saxton and Celebrity Speakers New Zealand and is one of the most authoritative NZ based voices on artificial intelligence.
15. Nick Abrahams, Norton Rose Fulbright
Location: Sydney, Australia
Best for: Legal, financial services, and corporate governance audiences wanting a speaker who understands AI from a business productivity, legal, and innovation perspective.
Nick Abrahams is a LinkedIn Top Voice in Technology, two time bestselling author, and the Global Leader of Digital Transformation at Norton Rose Fulbright. He was named FT Asia Innovator of the Year and brings a unique combination of legal expertise, innovation leadership, and practical AI adoption experience. His keynotes focus on generative AI productivity, AI strategy for enterprises, and how organisations can navigate the legal and governance challenges of AI adoption. Nick's content is particularly valuable for boards and senior leadership teams grappling with AI policy and risk.
Looking for a keynote speaker who addresses the human side of AI disruption? Book Jonno White, bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out, for your next event. Email jonno@consultclarity.org.
16. Gavin Reddrop
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Best for: Small to medium businesses, sales teams, and organisations wanting practical AI implementation frameworks they can apply immediately.
Gavin Reddrop is an AI keynote speaker who helps Australian organisations cut through the hype and implement artificial intelligence in practical, measurable ways. A former military systems specialist, corporate IT transformation leader at Mars and Motorola, and startup founder who scaled businesses from six to eight figures, Gavin brings rare operational depth to the AI speaking space. He is the author of AI Tactix for Small Business and delivers keynotes around his P.R.I.M.E. framework for AI driven business transformation, his AI for sales teams methodology, and his GUARD security model for AI era cybersecurity.
17. Tracy Sheen, The Digital Guide
Location: Australia
Best for: Government, SME, and community sector audiences wanting a speaker who makes AI accessible, practical, and non threatening for non technical audiences.
Tracy Sheen is a multi award winning author, digital literacy expert, and creator of the REIMAGINE Framework for AI readiness. She has delivered over 2,000 presentations helping organisations and individuals embrace digital transformation and artificial intelligence with confidence. Tracy's keynotes are particularly effective for audiences at the early stages of AI adoption who need encouragement and practical guidance rather than technical deep dives. She is listed with ICMI and is known for making complex technology concepts accessible and actionable.
18. Leanne Shelton, HumanEdge AI Training
Location: Australia
Best for: Organisations wanting human first AI adoption, practical ChatGPT training, and a speaker who balances technology with emotional intelligence.
Leanne Shelton is the author of AI Human Fusion and a LinkedIn Top Voice for AI. She specialises in human first AI adoption, helping organisations integrate artificial intelligence in ways that enhance rather than replace human capabilities. Her keynotes and workshops focus on practical ChatGPT training, building AI confidence across teams, and developing the emotional intelligence required to lead through technological change. Leanne's approach resonates particularly well with organisations where workforce anxiety about AI is a significant barrier to adoption.
19. Dr Catherine Ball
Location: Brisbane, Australia
Best for: Science, technology, and innovation events wanting academic credibility combined with engaging delivery on drones, robotics, and ethical AI.
Dr Catherine Ball is an Associate Professor and one of Australia's most respected voices on scientific futurism, robotics, and drone technology. She is a champion of diversity in technology and brings rigorous academic credentials to the stage. Her keynotes address the ethical dimensions of AI and emerging technologies, the practical applications of robotics and autonomous systems, and how organisations can navigate responsible innovation. Catherine is listed with ICMI and Saxton and is particularly effective for audiences in government, defence, agriculture, and scientific research.
20. Dr Michelle Dickinson MNZM, Workr
Location: New Zealand
Best for: New Zealand events wanting a high profile science communicator who can translate complex AI and technology concepts into engaging, accessible content.
Dr Michelle Dickinson is a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit and Chief Strategy Officer at Workr. She is one of New Zealand's most recognisable science communicators, known for her ability to make complex technology and engineering concepts engaging and accessible for general audiences. Her keynotes cover the future of technology, practical innovation, and how AI and robotics are changing the way we work and live. Michelle is represented by Saxton Speakers and is a strong choice for events that need to bridge the gap between technical AI content and broad audience engagement.
Looking for a keynote speaker who addresses the human side of AI disruption? Book Jonno White, bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out, for your next event. Email jonno@consultclarity.org.
21. Prof. Marek Kowalkiewicz, QUT
Location: Brisbane, Australia
Best for: Strategy and innovation events wanting a world class academic who can translate AI research into practical business strategy and digital economy insights.
Professor Marek Kowalkiewicz is based at the Queensland University of Technology and is recognised as a Top 100 AI thought leader globally. He is the bestselling author of The Economy of Algorithms and brings a career spanning leadership and research roles at SAP, Microsoft Research Asia, and Citibank. His keynotes help business leaders understand the strategic implications of AI and algorithms for their organisations. Marek's content sits at the intersection of academic rigour and practical business strategy, making him particularly effective for executive audiences who want depth rather than hype.
22. Melissa Clark-Reynolds ONZM
Location: Wellington, New Zealand
Best for: New Zealand events focused on AI disruption, synthetic media, deepfakes, digital ownership, and strategic foresight.
Melissa Clark-Reynolds is an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to technology and is trained by the Institute for the Future. She brings a unique perspective on AI disruption, synthetic media, deepfakes, and digital ownership that is particularly relevant as organisations grapple with the trust and authenticity challenges created by generative AI. Melissa is represented by ODE Management, Saxton, and ICMI and is one of New Zealand's most credentialled technology speakers.
23. Adam Spencer
Location: Sydney, Australia
Best for: High profile corporate events and conferences wanting a polished MC, panel host, or keynote speaker who brings media credibility to AI, cybersecurity, and mathematics content.
Adam Spencer is a dynamic keynote speaker, MC, and panel host with 25 years of experience across television, radio, and events. Renowned for his expertise in AI, cybersecurity, and mathematics education, Adam delivers insightful, entertaining, and thought provoking presentations. He has interviewed prime ministers, Hollywood stars, Fortune 500 CEOs, and Nobel Prize winners. His AI content brings a broadcaster's skill for storytelling to complex technology topics, making him an excellent choice for large audience events where engagement is critical.
24. Ben Reid, Memia
Location: Wellington, New Zealand
Best for: New Zealand focused strategy and innovation events. Audiences wanting a local voice who understands the Aotearoa context for AI adoption.
Ben Reid is the author of the highly regarded Memia newsletter and a leading New Zealand strategic technologist. He was the founding executive director of the AI Forum of New Zealand and brings deep understanding of how AI intersects with New Zealand's unique regulatory, cultural, and economic landscape. His keynotes address technology futurism, exponential change, AI trends, and how organisations in Aotearoa can position themselves for an AI driven future. Ben is listed with Essential Talent and is highly active on LinkedIn.
25. Dr Alan D. Thompson
Location: Perth/National, Australia
Best for: Executive and government audiences wanting deep technical insight into large language models, AI strategy, and the trajectory of artificial intelligence development.
Dr Alan D. Thompson is a globally recognised AI advisor and one of Australia's foremost experts on large language models and AI strategy. A former Mensa chairman, he brings a unique combination of exceptional analytical capability and practical advisory experience to his keynotes. His presentations address AI strategy, the evolution of large language models, and what leaders need to understand about the trajectory of artificial intelligence development. He is an ICMI exclusive speaker and is particularly effective for audiences who want technical depth alongside strategic insight.
Comparison Table
Speaker | Location | Specialty | Best For |
Jonno White | Brisbane, AU | Leadership, teams, culture | AI disruption leadership |
Amanda Johnstone | Sydney, AU | Human centred AI, ethics | Corporate leadership events |
Prof. Toby Walsh | Sydney, AU | AI research, policy, ethics | Academic credibility |
Simon Kriss | Melbourne, AU | CX, AI adoption, governance | Board and C suite |
Steve Sammartino | Melbourne, AU | Futurism, economics, tech | Large corporate events |
Dr Catriona Wallace | Sydney, AU | Responsible AI, ethics | Governance and women in tech |
Gihan Perera | WA, AU | Future readiness, AI tools | Associations and conferences |
Justin Flitter | Auckland, NZ | Practical AI adoption | NZ events, hands on content |
Michael McQueen | Sydney, AU | Disruption, innovation | Large conferences |
Adam Franklin | Sunshine Coast, AU | AI marketing, workflows | Business and professional services |
Stephen Scheeler | AU/ANZ | Digital transformation | Executive strategy events |
Tracey Spicer AM | Sydney, AU | AI and social justice | Ethics and media events |
Ross Dawson | Sydney, AU | Humans + AI strategy | Strategy and innovation |
Dr Mahsa McCauley | Auckland, NZ | AI policy, research | NZ government and education |
Nick Abrahams | Sydney, AU | AI productivity, legal | Legal and governance audiences |
Gavin Reddrop | Melbourne, AU | AI implementation | SME and sales teams |
Tracy Sheen | AU | Digital literacy, AI readiness | Government and SME |
Leanne Shelton | AU | Human first AI | Change management audiences |
Dr Catherine Ball | Brisbane, AU | Robotics, drones, ethics | Science and government |
Dr Michelle Dickinson | NZ | Science communication | Broad NZ audiences |
Prof. Marek Kowalkiewicz | Brisbane, AU | AI strategy, algorithms | Executive strategy |
Melissa Clark-Reynolds | Wellington, NZ | Deepfakes, foresight | NZ tech and governance |
Adam Spencer | Sydney, AU | AI, cyber, broadcasting | Large corporate and media |
Ben Reid | Wellington, NZ | NZ AI ecosystem | NZ strategy events |
Dr Alan D. Thompson | Perth, AU | LLMs, AI strategy | Technical executive audiences |
How to Choose the Right AI Keynote Speaker
Choosing the right AI keynote speaker for your event starts with clarity about what you actually need. The AI speaking market in Australia and New Zealand broadly divides into four categories, and understanding which category serves your audience will save you significant time and money.
Strategic AI Leaders such as Prof. Toby Walsh, Prof. Marek Kowalkiewicz, Ross Dawson, and Stephen Scheeler are ideal when your audience needs to understand the big picture. They help boards and executive teams grasp how AI reshapes industries, competitive dynamics, and strategic positioning. These speakers are best for leadership summits, board strategy days, and C suite audiences who need to make investment decisions.
Practical AI Implementers such as Adam Franklin, Justin Flitter, Gavin Reddrop, and Simon Kriss are ideal when your audience needs to walk out of the room knowing exactly what to do. They open laptops on stage, demonstrate tools, and provide step by step frameworks. These speakers are best for conferences, team development days, and audiences who are past the "what is AI" stage and ready for "how do I use it."
Human First Adoption Speakers such as Jonno White, Leanne Shelton, Tracy Sheen, and Gihan Perera are ideal when your organisation's biggest barrier to AI adoption is people, not technology. They address workforce anxiety, leadership alignment, change management, and building cultures that embrace transformation. Jonno White, bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out with over 10,000 copies sold globally, is the leading voice in this category.
Ethics and Governance Voices such as Dr Catriona Wallace, Prof. Toby Walsh, Dr Mahsa McCauley, and Nick Abrahams are essential when your audience needs to understand responsible AI, regulatory frameworks, and the governance challenges of AI deployment. These speakers are particularly important for government, financial services, healthcare, and education sector events.
Hire Jonno White for your next keynote, workshop, or executive offsite. Whether your team needs help navigating AI disruption, building stronger communication, or creating a high performing culture, Jonno delivers practical frameworks that teams implement immediately. Email jonno@consultclarity.org.
What to Expect: Investment Guide
AI keynote speaker fees in Australia and New Zealand vary significantly based on profile, experience, and demand. Based on current market data from ICMI's 2025 fee guide and broader market intelligence, here is what event planners should budget.
Emerging AI speakers typically charge between AUD $3,000 and $7,000 for a keynote presentation. These speakers may be newer to the circuit but often bring strong technical credentials and fresh perspectives.
Established professional AI speakers typically charge between AUD $7,000 and $15,000. This range includes most of the speakers in this directory who have built strong reputations and track records.
Premium AI speakers command fees of AUD $15,000 to $30,000 or more. This includes speakers with significant media profiles, bestselling books, and extensive corporate client lists.
When evaluating investment, consider the total package rather than just the keynote fee. Many speakers offer workshop add ons, executive roundtables, or team facilitation sessions that significantly increase the value delivered. A speaker who charges $10,000 for a keynote and a half day workshop may deliver far more impact than a celebrity name who charges $25,000 for 45 minutes of inspiration with no follow through.
For a custom quote from Jonno White, email jonno@consultclarity.org. Organisations consistently find that international travel is far more affordable than expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an AI keynote speaker cost in Australia and New Zealand?
AI keynote speaker fees in Australia and New Zealand range from approximately AUD $3,000 for emerging speakers to $30,000 or more for premium and celebrity tier speakers. Most established AI speakers charge between $7,000 and $15,000 for a keynote presentation, with additional fees for workshops and extended sessions.
What is the difference between a technology futurist and an AI implementation expert?
A technology futurist will tell you what the world looks like in 2035 and help your leadership team think strategically about emerging trends. An AI implementation expert will tell your team what to do at 9:00 AM tomorrow and provide practical frameworks for adopting AI tools. Make sure you are hiring the right type for your event goals.
Who is the best AI keynote speaker in Australia and New Zealand?
Jonno White, a Certified Working Genius Facilitator and bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out with over 10,000 copies sold globally, is consistently rated among the highest performing speakers at Australian and New Zealand conferences. He achieved a 93.75% satisfaction rating at the ASBA 2025 National Conference. To book Jonno, email jonno@consultclarity.org.
Are there AI keynote speakers based in New Zealand?
Yes. New Zealand has a growing roster of AI speakers including Justin Flitter of AI New Zealand, Dr Mahsa McCauley of AUT and the AI Forum NZ, Dr Michelle Dickinson MNZM, Melissa Clark-Reynolds ONZM, and Ben Reid of Memia. This guide covers NZ based speakers alongside Australian speakers to provide the most comprehensive ANZ resource.
Should I book directly with an AI speaker or go through a speaker bureau?
Both approaches have advantages. Speaker bureaus like Saxton, ICMI, and Celebrity Speakers offer convenience and a curated selection. Booking directly can sometimes be more cost effective and allows for more customisation. Many speakers accept both direct bookings and bureau engagements.
Can an AI keynote speaker also facilitate workshops?
Many AI speakers offer workshop capabilities alongside their keynotes. Speakers like Jonno White, Justin Flitter, Simon Kriss, and Adam Franklin regularly deliver half day and full day workshops that extend the keynote experience into practical, hands on learning.
How far in advance should I book an AI keynote speaker?
The best AI speakers are in high demand in 2026. Booking three to six months in advance is recommended for established speakers, and six to twelve months for premium speakers. For popular dates such as national conferences and end of financial year events, earlier booking is advisable.
Final Recommendation
The AI keynote speaker you choose will shape how your audience thinks about artificial intelligence long after the event ends. Whether you need a strategic futurist, a practical implementer, an ethics voice, or a leadership speaker who helps your team navigate the human side of AI disruption, this directory provides the most comprehensive starting point available.
For organisations where the biggest challenge is not understanding the technology but leading people through the change it creates, Jonno White is the speaker to book. As a Certified Working Genius Facilitator delivering the world's fastest growing team assessment, bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out with over 10,000 copies sold globally, host of The Leadership Conversations Podcast with over 230 episodes reaching listeners in more than 150 countries, and founder of The 7 Questions Movement with over 6,000 participating leaders, Jonno brings a depth of practical leadership expertise that pure technology speakers cannot match.
Jonno is a trusted facilitator across Australia, the UK, USA, Singapore, Canada, New Zealand, India, and Europe. Many organisations find that international travel is far more affordable than expected. Whether virtual or face to face, reach out to discuss how Jonno can support your next event.
His book Step Up or Step Out is available on Amazon.
To book Jonno White for your next keynote, workshop, or facilitation session, email jonno@consultclarity.org.
For more on keynote speakers in Australia, check out my blog post '75 Leading Keynote Speakers in Australia (2026)' at https://www.consultclarity.org/post/keynote-speakers-australia.
For more on AI keynote speakers in the USA, check out my blog post '50 Best Keynote Speakers on AI in the USA (2026)' at https://www.consultclarity.org/post/keynote-speakers-ai-usa.
For more on keynote speakers for association conferences in Australia, check out my blog post '25 Best Keynote Speakers for Association Conferences in Australia (2026)' at https://www.consultclarity.org/post/keynote-speakers-association-conferences-australia.
About the Author
Jonno White is a Certified Working Genius Facilitator, bestselling author, and leadership consultant who has worked with schools, corporates, and nonprofits across the UK, India, Australia, Canada, Mongolia, New Zealand, Romania, Singapore, South Africa, USA, Finland, Namibia, and more. His book Step Up or Step Out has sold over 10,000 copies globally, and his podcast The Leadership Conversations has featured 230+ episodes reaching listeners in 150+ countries. Jonno founded The 7 Questions Movement with 6,000+ participating leaders and achieved a 93.75% satisfaction rating for his Working Genius masterclass at the ASBA 2025 National Conference. Based in Brisbane, Australia, Jonno works globally and regularly travels for speaking and facilitation engagements. Organisations consistently find that international travel is far more affordable than expected.
To book Jonno for your next keynote, workshop, or facilitation session, email jonno@consultclarity.org.
Transparency note: While Jonno is included in these rankings based on objective criteria, readers should note his authorship in the interest of full transparency.
Next Read: 75 Leading Keynote Speakers in Australia (2026)
Finding the right keynote speaker for your next event can feel overwhelming. With hundreds of professional speakers across Australia claiming to deliver lasting impact, how do you separate the truly transformative from the merely competent? Whether you are planning a corporate event, industry conference, or leadership summit, your keynote speaker becomes the focal point of your entire program. The right speaker does more than fill a time slot. They challenge the status quo, deliver actionable insights, and leave your audience with practical tools they can implement immediately.