Anticipate: Mission Now, Mission Next

WELCOME to the Missions Interlink National Conference 2026. We are so excited to gather under one roof with Australia’s mission leaders, practitioners, staff, educators, pastors and mobilisers. This year, our theme is ANTICIPATE: Mission Now, Mission Next. Together, we want to learn, wrestle and grow as we address how to anticipate the future from different perspectives. You’re invited to join us as we pray, worship, discern and connect over 2 days of engaging sessions and workshops.

Dates: 14th Wednesday - 15th Thursday, October 2026

Location: Crossway Baptist Church

Burwood East campus

2 Vision Drive, Burwood East, Victoria 3151

Hosted by Missions Interlink • Designed for agencies, churches, and emerging leaders

What to expect:

Expert Insights on Future Global Trends: Dr Lisa Pak, who will discuss intergenerational collaboration and understanding missions in today’s globalised church, as well as Akos Balogh, who will explore the intersection of faith and Artificial Intelligence.
Specialised Learning Streams: featuring four dedicated workshop streams—Technology and AI, Leading and Training, Next Gen, and Partnership
Strategic Collaboration, Networking and Prayer: As the only national gathering of its kind in Australia held every two years, there is no other opportunity to connect with the Australian missions community in these meaningful ways

Joining God’s Mission in a Shifting World

The theme “Anticipate: Mission Now, Mission Next” is a call to live with both urgency and foresight as we bring the gospel to the nations. Rooted in Jesus’ commission and His invitation to discern the times, our theme challenges us to engage faithfully in the work before us as we prepare for what lies ahead. Mission Now honours the legacy of faithful witness that has brought us to this moment, calling us to steward current partnerships and continue mobilising the global Church with wisdom and cultural understanding. At the same time, Mission Next challenges us to look forward—anticipating how God is moving and embracing the shifts required for the future. As we gather to ANTICIPATE, we are called to remain attentive to the Spirit, prayerfully grounded in obedience, yet ready to respond. Together, we want to step forward with confidence, trusting that the God who has been faithful will continue to lead His mission into the future.

Keynote: Dr Lisa Pak

Reverend Dr Lisa Pak is a global leader passionate about mobilising the Church for mission in this generation. A second-generation Korean Canadian, she serves as Director of Partnerships (Asia) with Finishing the Task alongside Rick Warren, while also working with Wycliffe USA in collaborative strategy and prayer.

With over a decade of pastoral experience across North America and Asia, Lisa brings deep cross-cultural insight and a heart for unity. She is especially committed to empowering women and raising up the next generation to lead with purpose. A sought-after speaker and strategist, Lisa travels globally, calling the Church to greater collaboration in sharing the gospel with those who have yet to hear.

Keynote: Akos Balogh

Born in Communist Hungary, Akos Balogh came to Australia as a refugee and has since built a diverse and influential career spanning military service in both the Army and Air Force, theological training at Moore College, and leadership roles with AFES and as CEO of The Gospel Coalition Australia. Most recently, he served as External Engagement Manager at Moore College.

Akos now runs a ghostwriting consultancy and writes regularly on the intersection of culture, Christianity, and AI at akosbalogh.com, helping others think deeply about faith in a rapidly changing world.

Featured speakers: Dr Lisa Pak (Finishing the Task, Canada) and Akos Balogh (Canberra). Full speaker lineup will be announced in late 2025. Subscribe below to receive the first announcement.

Workshops:

The Missions Interlink leadership has identified the following four key drivers that will shape our workshop streams this year

1. Technology & AI

2. Partnership

3. Leadership & Training

4. The Next Generation

Secure your place at National Conference 2026

Early‑bird pricing is available for a limited time: MI Members — $550 standard (early‑bird $450); Non‑MI Members — $650 standard (early‑bird $550).

Subsidies for emerging leaders (up to 35 years) may be available, please contact the Missions Interlink team for more information.

Early-Bird Prices End...

MI Members

For Missions Interlink Members & Associates

Full 2‑day conference access

All plenary and workshop sessions

Morning tea, lunch, and materials

Discounted rate for Missions Interlink Members & Associates

pricing does not include accommodation

AU$450

Early‑bird

Non MI Members

For individuals, churches, and agencies not currently in membership

Full 2‑day conference access

All plenary and workshop sessions

Morning tea, lunch, and materials

pricing does not include accommodation

AU$550

Early‑bird

Sponsor Our National Conference:

Sponsoring the Missions Interlink National Conference connects you with a deeply influential group of globally focused Australian mission leaders—mission agency heads, church and mobilisation leaders, and emerging voices shaping the future of mission in Australia.

It’s a relational, high-trust space where meaningful conversations happen and partnerships naturally grow. Partner with our conference and our passion to see the gospel go forth from Australia to the ends of the earth.

FAQs

Common questions about National Conference 2026

If your question isn’t answered here, please contact the Missions Interlink team and we’ll be glad to help.

Who is this conference for?

This conference is for those who bear responsibility for others in God’s mission—leaders, pastors, and practitioners who want to lead well and support well in a changing season – who are seeking wisdom on what that requires now.

Why “Anticipate: Mission Now, Mission Next”?

Because faithful ministry calls us to be attentive to what God is doing in the present, and to where He may be leading us next. This theme invites us to hold both with prayerful care and discernment.

What can I expect to take away?

Our prayer is that you leave with greater clarity and encouragement—clearer in how to respond in your context, and strengthened to continue leading with faithfulness and hope.

How will this help me lead in my context?

The conference is designed to help you think more clearly about the challenges you’re facing—whether in your church, organisation, or field—and to discern faithful, practical next steps in light of them.

Why does this matter now?

Because many are navigating uncertainty and change. This is an opportunity to be re-centred, to discern and pray together, and to move forward trusting in God’s ongoing work in and through His people.