In a world where resilience, leadership, and mindset drive success, the right speaker can inspire mindset shifts and drive real transformation.
As an event organiser, you already know that a keynote isn’t just about entertainment. It’s not about hype or high-fives. It’s about real impact. The best motivational speakers blend powerful storytelling with actionable insights—leaving your audience not just inspired, but ready to lead, adapt, and perform.
I’ve spent years on stages around the world—sharing lessons from my expeditions across the Tasman and to the South Pole—and I’ve also had the privilege of working alongside some of Australia’s most influential voices in leadership, mindset, and performance. I’ve seen firsthand what makes a keynote truly resonate with Aussie professionals (and what misses the mark).
Because let’s face it: Australian audiences are different.
We don’t want “rah-rah” cheerleading or superficial encouragement. We want speakers who are authentic, humble, relatable, and have the depth to challenge leaders at every level. Someone who’ll bring substance. And—just as importantly—someone who’s easy to work with behind the scenes and can tailor their message to your event’s goals, values, and people.
That’s why I’ve pulled together this list.
These seven motivational speakers don’t just talk about mindset and success—they’ve lived it. They’ve led through crisis, overcome extreme challenges, and helped teams thrive through uncertainty. Each one brings a unique flavour, but they all have one thing in common: they’ll leave your audience inspired to take action.
Let’s dive in—here are the seven best motivational speakers in Australia for 2025.
Naomi Simson – Intentional Leadership and Business Growth
As the founder of RedBalloon and a former Shark Tank investor, Naomi Simson brings a wealth of knowledge on entrepreneurship and ‘intentional leadership.’ She delivers thought-provoking insights, leaving audiences with a sense of possibility and equipped with growth strategies. Her energy, passion, and practical insights make her a standout speaker for leadership and business-focused events.
James Castrission – The Explorer’s Mindset in Leadership and Teams
I’ve spent the last 15+ years helping leaders and teams adopt an Explorer’s Mindset and explore their full potential. I share lessons from my world-record-breaking expeditions across some of the most extreme environments on earth, aligning them with the challenges of leadership, grit, trust, and resilience in the corporate world. If you’re looking for a keynote speaker for your next conference, event, click here.
Shadé Zahrai – The Science of Peak Performance
Psychology (mindset and behaviour) and success go together hand in hand. Shadé Zahrai is an expert in translating neuroscience into practical strategies to achieve peak performance. Her insights on confidence, mindset shifts, and high performance resonate with teams looking to accelerate success in an ever-evolving workplace.
Matina Jewell – Lessons in Leadership from the Frontline
A champion for change and a former Army Major who served in some of the world’s toughest conflict zones, Matina Jewell shares gripping leadership lessons from real-world battlefield experiences. Her keynotes on leadership, resilience, and change inspire leaders to thrive under pressure.
Michael Crossland – Defying the Odds
Michael’s life story is nothing short of extraordinary. A businessman, elite sportsman and a cancer survivor who defied medical predictions, he has gone on to impact lives globally with his message of resilience, mindfulness, and perspective. His keynote presentations on mindset and well-being challenge audiences to reframe adversity and embrace change with courage.
Jessica Gallagher – Vision, Determination, and Success Against the Odds
A trailblazer in Australian sport, Jessica Gallagher made history as the first Australian to medal at both the Winter and Summer Paralympics. Her story of determination, adaptability, and overcoming barriers is a masterclass in mindset and goal setting.
Nedd Brockman – Pushing Limits Beyond Belief
From running nearly 4,000km across Australia to raising $1.85 million for homelessness, Nedd Brockman is the definition of endurance and purpose. His mental toughness and ability to inspire others to push their limits makes him one of the most sought-after speakers in the country.
Who’s the Right Speaker for Your Event?
Each of these speakers brings something unique to the stage. Whether your event focuses on resilience, leadership, mindset, or innovation, choosing the right speaker can leave a lasting impact on your audience.
If you’re looking for more than motivation—something that truly transforms your people—let’s chat about how we can make your next event unforgettable.
