Queensland Futures Institute
Party Observers Program 2026 (Pilot)
Introduction
The Queensland Futures Institute (QFI) exists to connect business, industry, education and community with the policy and political processes that shape Queensland’s future.
The Party Observers Program (POP) contributes to this goal by inviting a representative of each key political party to attend QFI’s public-facing events, as an observer. The Party Representative (PR) participates solely to listen, learn and take insights back into internal policy development processes, without altering the non-partisan nature of QFI forums.
For 2026, the program applies to the eight breakfast and two lunch events offered by the QFI.
Eligibility
A political party is eligible to participate in the Program if it is registered with the Electoral Commission of Queensland and currently holds at least one seat in either the Queensland Legislative Assembly or the Australian Parliament (Queensland House electorate or Queensland Senate seat).
For 2026, eligible parties include: the Liberal National Party, Australian Labor Party, Katter’s Australian Party, The Greens, and Pauline Hanson’s One Nation.
Definition of a Party Representative
For the purposes of this Program, a Party Representative of an eligible political party holding a party role such as:
- State Director or Deputy Director
- Party Secretary or organisational executive
- Policy officer, adviser, researcher or strategic staff member.
Party Representatives are welcome to invite other party office holders, elected members, ministerial staff or other guests, as Party Observers in accordance with the Offer (below). The Party Representative takes full responsibility for ensuring that their guests comply with the Program.
In compliance with this program, event attendees will be advised that Party Representatives and guests are attending an event.
Offer
For each eligible party at each QFI event in 2026:
- 1 x complimentary “Party Representative” ticket
- Up to 4 additional “Policy Observer” tickets available at QFI member rates
Role of a Party Representatives and Observer
Party Representatives and Observers:
- Attend to listen, learn and be influenced, not to speak or influence.
- Do not contribute to panels, Q&A or formal discussions.
- May network professionally but must not campaign or promote politically motivated debate and discussion.
- Respect attendee confidentiality and QFI’s non-partisan principles.
Principles
The Party Observers Program is based on:
- Non-partisanship
- Accessibility
- Objectivity
- Transparency and integrity.
Request a Membership Prospectus
ADVANCINGThe membership category for smaller organisations having an existing and growing Queensland presence, or which are newly emerging. Advancing members recognise the value of engaging with the QFI’s networks to grow new opportunities for their organisation. They aim to engage in and learn from the QFI’s public policy activities and to promote their brand and capabilities. An Advancing member seeks to build the profile of its leadership team and its brand. |
LEADINGThe core and most impactful category of corporate membership with the Queensland Futures Institute. A Leading member is highly attuned to the fact that their growth and success is closely intertwined with the broader economic success of the State. They have a regional, state, national or international presence and long-term plans to grow their already significant investment in Queensland’s future. Leading members are committed to driving informed debate and developing public policy solutions on matters core to Queensland’s future prosperity. They have the preparedness and capacity to invest in and lead the development of new ideas and new thinking. |
INNOVATINGThe second highest category of membership. Innovating members recognise the importance of investing to enhance the impact and the dividends for their organisation from growing Queensland’s future prosperity. An Innovating member is committed to engaging in the public policy debate through actively contributing to QFI’s policy and research programs and various event activities. They are prepared to provide their expertise and experience to develop new ideas and new thinking to grow Queensland’s economy. |