The Industry’s Night – the annual Hostplus ARCA and AFAB industry gala – returns for its second year on 31 August 2026. Held at the Lakeside Pavilion in Albert Park, Melbourne, the event marks the opening night of Fine Food 2026. It will bring together restaurant, café, and hospitality venue owners, operators, suppliers, and industry leaders from across Australia for a night of connection, recognition and celebration. ARCA Chief Executive Officer Wes Lambert said the evening gives the industry a chance to pause, come together and celebrate the wins.

Open letter signatory and Australian Restaurant and Cafe Association chief Wes Lambert said the proposed laws would also be a “nail in the coffin” for many small businesses due to a reduction in CBD foot traffic. “Passing this legislation would truly show that the current government is totally out of touch with businesses in their state, and it is time for a change,” he said.

Australian Restaurant and Cafe Association chief executive Wes Lambert said the slowdown in revenue and increase in closure rate was nationwide, primarily tourist areas followed by the central business districts. “The proof is in the numbers. It is a well-known fact that the hospitality industry is suffering under the weight of inflation and the current government’s policies that are not set to help the hospitality industry,” he said.