In mid-May, the ABC Foundation Carbon Farming Forum brought together leading experts and passionate participants for a day full of insight, innovation, and inspiration.
From agroforestry and seagrass restoration to urban greening and digital mapping tools, the conference showcased the diverse ways carbon farming is shaping a more sustainable future, on land, at sea and in our cities.
We were incredibly fortunate to host an outstanding group of speakers, each offering unique perspectives on the opportunities and challenges of carbon farming in Australia.
Dr Simon Dawkins – Carbon Policies
Dr Simon Dawkins, Executive Director of the Oil Mallee Association, had powerful insights into the role of integrated agroforestry and policy innovation in supporting bioenergy solutions, such as biofuels derived from agricultural feedstocks.
With decades of experience in climate policy at both state and international levels, Dr Dawkins brought critical depth to the discussion on resilient, low-carbon farming systems.
Thank you, Dr Dawkins, for your leadership and vision for Australia’s carbon economy.
Professor Jennifer Verduin – Blue Carbon & Coastal Restoration
Professor Jennifer Verduin of Murdoch University, a world-renowned oceanographer, took us beneath the waves to explore seagrass meadows, vital ecosystems in carbon storage, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
Her presentation highlighted the incredible potential of blue carbon strategies and nature-based solutions to restore coastal environments and fight climate change from the seabed up.
Thank you, Professor Verduin, for reminding us that carbon farming doesn’t stop at the shoreline.
Steve Pursell – Seagrass Restoration
Steve Pursell, Program Manager at OzFish, shared his deep knowledge of WA’s waterways and the critical role of community-led fish habitat restoration.
As part of Australia’s only fishing conservation charity, Steve inspired attendees with stories of how recreational anglers are leading local restoration efforts, improving water quality, boosting biodiversity, and contributing to broader carbon strategies.
Thank you, Steve, for demonstrating the power of grassroots action in conservation.
Chris Howe – Tree Planting Case Studies
Chris Howe, Danju and Conservation Works Program Manager at the Leschenault Catchment Council, introduced the Danju Aboriginal Rangers program; an award-winning initiative blending Noongar traditional knowledge with modern conservation techniques.
From revegetation and seed collection to plant translocation and land management, this program showcases the strength of community leadership and cultural stewardship in delivering real carbon outcomes.
Thank you, Chris, for championing Indigenous-led care for Country.
Alison Sentance – Project Setup & Design
Alison Sentance, Executive Finance & Strategy Advisor at ABC Foundation, provided an expert lens on the design and governance of carbon projects, with a focus on empowering Indigenous participation in the Australian Carbon Credit Unit (ACCU) Scheme.
Her session outlined practical models that align economic viability with Australia’s climate goals, ensuring carbon farming initiatives are inclusive, strategic, and scalable.
Thank you, Alison, for your leadership in shaping a more equitable carbon economy.
Greg Simpson – Urban Green Spaces
Greg Simpson, Partnership Coordinator at ABC Foundation, shared compelling insights into the importance of urban green spaces in climate adaptation and community wellbeing.
Drawing on his research at Murdoch University, Greg explored how green infrastructure and nature-based solutions can make cities more liveable, healthy, and resilient in the face of climate change.
Thank you, Greg, for putting urban nature at the heart of the climate conversation.
Nick Stead – Mapping Tools for Carbon Projects
Nick Stead, Lead Project Coordinator of ABC Foundation’s Carbon Farming Outreach Program, delivered a practical session on accessible online tools that support landholders and communities in developing impactful carbon projects.
From mapping platforms to carbon calculators, Nick showcased how the right tools can empower everyday Australians to take meaningful climate action on their land.
Thank you, Nick, for helping make carbon farming tools available to all.
We’re deeply grateful for all our speakers and attendees for making the Carbon Farming Forum a huge success. The energy and expertise in the room was a powerful reminder that real solutions happen when knowledge meets action.
Inspired by what you’ve read?
Register now for our next Carbon Farming Forum via this link!
