We’ve now entered the final quarter of 2025 the busiest and most exciting time of the year for the toy industry!
Hottest Toys for Christmas Event (8th October)
The ATA is kicking things off with our Hottest Toys for Christmas event on 8th October in Melbourne. So far, we’ve secured strong media interest, with coverage confirmed from both morning shows and two national news channels.
Toys are always a hit with the media, and our members are always eager to showcase them—making this a perfect match. We’ll also have kids on hand to select their favourite “hot picks,” so if you’ve submitted products, be sure to watch for them either live on air or featured in our post-event wrap up.
Annual General Meeting (AGM)
Next month, we will be holding our Annual General Meeting, where members will have the opportunity to hear from both myself and ATA President, Jacqui Webster of Spin Master, as we reflect on the past year. All members are welcome to attend, either in person or virtually for those unable to join us on the day.
The AGM is also a valuable chance to connect directly with the ATA Board and Management. This year, elections will be held to fill three Board positions, with four nominees standing. Further details will be shared with the main contact for each member company in the coming weeks, so please keep an eye out for your chance to have a say in shaping the Board’s future direction.
Toy Fair 2026: Exhibit Spaces & Sponsorship
Toy Fair planning for next year is in full swing and spaces are disappearing fast. With only a handful of stands still available, this is your last chance to secure a place if you want to exhibit. Sponsorship opportunities are also open, offering unparalleled ways to showcase your brand.
With the entire Australian industry and international guests in attendance, branding the Fair is an unmissable opportunity to put your business in front of the biggest audience of the year.
If you’re attending the Fair, registration opens in January, so keep an eye out! For those travelling to Victoria, be sure to lock in your flights and accommodation early to secure the best deals. And with the Formula 1 Grand Prix taking place straight after the Fair, why not extend your stay and enjoy a weekend of racing excitement?
Retailers and attendees join the Fair for many reasons: sourcing from all the leading suppliers under one roof, networking with fellow industry professionals, supporting local creators and developers, discovering innovative products, and of course, enjoying the many events beyond the show floor.
Toy Fair Associated Events
Industry Gala Dinner
On Sunday evening, we’ll once again host the industry Gala Dinner – a night to celebrate the people and products that make this industry such a dynamic and rewarding space. It’s also a chance to connect, unwind, and celebrate together.
25 Year Club
Monday evening is dedicated to our prestigious 25 Year Club. This special event honors those who have dedicated 25 years or more to the industry, providing an opportunity to share memories, reconnect, and welcome the newest members to the club. It’s our way of saying thank you for the lasting impact you’ve had in shaping the industry here in Australia.
Women in Toys Event
Our Women in Toys event will also return, now in a new timeslot on Wednesday morning before the final day of the Fair. Hosted once again by Anni Atkinson, Senior Category Manager—Toys, Publishing & FHB Global Consumer Products—ANZ at Warner Bros, the event will feature an incredible line-up of women sharing inspiring stories. Stay tuned as we announce our speakers in the weeks ahead.
A Pivotal Time for the Industry
The months ahead represent a pivotal time for our industry, bringing with them valuable opportunities to connect, collaborate, and celebrate. From the Hottest Toys for Christmas event and Annual General Meeting through to Toy Fair and its associated functions, the ATA is proud to continue providing members with platforms that strengthen our community and showcase the very best of our industry. We look forward to your participation and to sharing these important milestones with you.
Contact Alice for more information: asanderson[@]austoy.com.au
This article also appeared in Edition 51 of The Bugg Report Magazine
