ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Applications are now open for the 2026 Cairns Chamber of Commerce Emerging Leaders Program, Far North Queensland’s premier leadership program for 40-year old’s and under.
The Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) is designed to develop globally relevant and locally connected leaders, in a manner that supports the future economic, social and environmental prosperity of Far North Queensland.
The program consists of six (6) industry immersion days over twelve months which include site famils, keynote presentations, fireside chats and panel discussions aimed at building leadership skills, soft skills and industry knowledge.
A mentoring program runs simultaneously, with each delegate paired with a business or industry leader from the region for the duration of the Program.
There are four (4) key components and four (4) key outcomes of the Program:
- Leadership in Focus
- Skills in Focus
- Industry in Focus
- Mentoring in Focus
- Enhanced leadership skills
- Improved understanding of the industries that drive Cairns
- A consciousness to the bigger picture of our region’s future, including its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats
- Expansion of professional networks and development of business and industry connections
KEY PROGRAM DATES
Eligibility: Aged 18 - 40 Years (Born in or between 2008 and 1986)
Program Cost: $1800 + GST
Applications Open: 9am Monday 12 January 2026
Applications Close: 5pm Monday 9 February 2026
Applicants Notified of Outcome: Monday 16 February 2026
Key Program Dates: All successful applicants will be required to participate in a Welcome Event (Thursday 5 March 2026 | 3 Hours), Six (6) Full Industry Immersion Days and a Graduation Event (Friday 4 December 2026 [TBC] | 3 Hours)
HOW TO APPLY
In 2026, 16 high potential delegates will be accepted into the Emerging Leaders Program. To be considered for the 2026 intake, you will be required to provide the following information via email to Claire Simmons at by 5pm Monday 9 February 2026.
STEP 1: Cover letter outlining your response to the following criteria:
- Why do you want to participate in the Emerging Leaders Program and how do you believe it will support you in achieving your career goals?
- How do you provide leadership within your local community and how do you believe the Emerging Leaders Program will help you grow as a leader in our region?
- The Emerging Leaders Program encompasses a welcome event, six (6) mandatory industry immersion days and a graduation event. If your application is successful, are you committed to attending the following six (6) full days? They will be held on:
*Thursday 26 March 2026
*Thursday 14 May 2026
*Thursday 18 June 2026
*Thursday 6 August 2026
*Thursday 10 September 2026
*Thursday 5 November 2026
STEP 2: Letter of support from your employer, including written acknowledgement that you will be available to attend all six (6) industry immersion days. If you are a business owner, please provide a professional letter of recommendation.
STEP 3: A copy of your resume.
To download this information pack in PDF format CLICK HERE
