Introduction

Ever had that “aha” moment when a story clicks and you think, “Yep—that’s exactly what I needed”? That’s Brisbane and the Gold Coast right now—hungry for motivational keynote speakers who transform tired teams into champions. These pros, with years of experience, blend big visions and little things that spark personal growth in business leaders and “good enough” managers alike. Whether at Bond University or popping up on social media, they ignite positive change that creates multiple lasting impacts—no smoke and mirrors, just real results.

Our Selection Criteria

Finding the perfect speaker felt like speed‑dating—so many bios, so little time. Here’s our no‑BS vetting:

1. Proven Track Record & Client ResultsWe chose folks who’ve driven ROI in financial services, information technology and the medical field—from smoother processes to happier customers. Even Jacqueline Furey from advisory services gives them her seal of approval.

2. Content Relevance to Brisbane & BeyondIf their case studies include Great Barrier Reef clean‑ups, social justice initiatives or Asia‑Pacific Region pivots (and a tip or two from the United States), they resonate locally and globally.

3. Engagement Style & InteractivityDeath‑by‑PowerPoint is out. These speakers are like presentation skills speakers on turbo—breakouts, polls, team dynamics drills and the kind of Q&A that sparks fresh ideas at international conferences.

4. Range of Topics & SpecializationsFrom risk management to corporate culture, work‑life balance to the creative process, we’ve rounded up talent skilled in leadership training, human resources, career challenges and truly actionable insights.

Bonus: micro‑learning modules (tiny 5‑minute bursts) can boost retention by up to 80% so every keynote is packed with snack‑able strategies.

Top 21 Motivational Keynote Leadership Speakers in Brisbane

1. Jonno White - A Global Thought Leader on Leadership and Managing People

Travels From Brisbane

Categories

Leadership,

Motivational Speakers,

Communication,

Team Building,

Education,

Trending Now

About Jonno White

Jonno White is a dynamic keynote speaker who captivates audiences and sparks lasting transformation. Known best as the author of Step Up or Step Out—which has sold over 10,000 copies worldwide—Jonno shares fresh, practical strategies on leadership, managing people and building teams that perform at the highest levels, even in remote settings.

What truly sets Jonno apart is his ability to energize a room and inspire people to take action. Drawing on years of hands-on experience coaching CEOs and Executives and facilitating Executive Team Retreats worldwide, he delivers real-world insights that challenge conventional thinking and activate new possibilities.

Jonno is the host of The Leadership Conversations with Jonno White Podcast, boasting more than 230 episodes and listeners in over 150 countries, where he interviews renowned figures—including business icons like Guy Kawasaki—on the art and science of leadership.

Jonno is also the Founder of The 7 Questions Movement with more than 500,000 people visiting his blog every year. So far, over 2,000 leaders globally have answered 7 Questions on leadership and other topics. The 7 Questions is an exclusive, invite-only series of interviews with leaders from all over the world. It’s free for any leader anywhere to access these leaders’ answers and the vision is to encourage leaders globally to become everything they’re meant to be.

A sought-after speaker at conferences and corporate events, Jonno blends compelling storytelling with proven leadership solutions that resonate in any context. Whether speaking to a room of senior leaders or an auditorium of thousands, he empowers people to rise to higher levels of effectiveness—leaving them motivated, more aligned, and ready to build organizations where everyone thrives.

Here is a video of Jonno presenting: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1krlgMV7KFGlT57KXetGvd4DGj01RCbYV/view?usp=drive_link

Here is another video of Jonno presenting a webinar to give you more of a feel for how he presents:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oqLWn3Nts10mhgkJuzDM1YC77dULC3_D/view?usp=sharing

Here is a showreel about Jonno's keynotes: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1f3zMKYFRykGhJ95LDoUGUD8oTHDwPdB3/view?usp=drive_link 

Signature Keynote Themes

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1. Step Up or Step Out: Conflict Without Confrontation

Dealing with a difficult person is often the most dreaded part of leadership—yet it doesn’t have to be. Drawing on his bestselling book Step Up or Step Out (10,000+ copies sold worldwide), Jonno reveals a simple, three-stage framework for addressing challenging behaviors by clarifying expectations rather than fueling tension. This session shows leaders how to create positive accountability, ensuring that team members either step up to a higher standard or step out without a messy confrontation.

2. Replace Yourself: Transform Your Organization Without Overwhelming Your Staff

True leadership is about elevating others to do what you do, and even do it better. In this engaging keynote, Jonno shares insights from his upcoming book on how to “replace” yourself—empowering your team to flourish as you drive the organization forward. Discover practical ways to delegate effectively, develop your rising stars, and cultivate a culture where people grow alongside business objectives—without sacrificing their well-being.

3. Unity in Motion: Leading Through Rapid Change and Growth

Whether you’re expanding at breakneck speed or navigating challenging market conditions, the key to thriving through transitions is clear, cohesive leadership. Jonno offers a proven roadmap to get everyone rowing in the same direction, uniting individuals behind a shared purpose. Leaders will learn how to rally teams, handle uncertainty, and maintain a forward-focused momentum when the stakes are high and change is constant.

4. Building a High-Performing Team: Creating a Culture That Soars

Great teams don’t form by accident. Drawing on years of experience running executive offsites around the world, Jonno breaks down the essential building blocks of a high-performing team—trust, alignment, and shared vision. Participants will come away with tangible techniques for leveraging diverse strengths, fostering open communication, and infusing each day with the kind of esprit de corps that drives exceptional results.

5. Communication That Connects: Navigating Different Personalities

From extroverts to introverts, detail-oriented thinkers to big-picture dreamers, every personality brings both opportunities and challenges. In this keynote based on Jonno’s best-selling book Step Up or Step Out (10,000+ copies sold worldwide), Jonno uncovers how to spot diverse communication styles and adapt your approach. Leaders gain a toolkit for connecting with any personality type—turning potential clashes into fruitful dialogue and turning individual differences into collective strengths.

6. Fuel or Drain? Finding the Energy Drivers That Propel You—and Your Team

In times of high demand, a culture of energy and engagement can make or break an organization. This session is all about uncovering what energizes you and what depletes you, then applying those insights across your team. In this keynote, Jonno gives leaders the tools to create an environment where people maximize their strengths, tackle challenges with enthusiasm, and remain resilient even in the toughest circumstances.

To enquire about Jonno White for your next event, email [email protected] or call Jonno on +61481 829 906.

2. Duncan Stevens – Industry Expert in Influence & Persuasion

About Duncan

A former Royal Navy officer with a military aviation background turned mentalist, Duncan’s unique ability to blend magic, data and humor has earned top billing at corporate events worldwide. Represented by a top talent agency, he’s the presentation skills speaker everyone wants on their roster.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Six Principles of Influence: Everyday language for reciprocity and social proof—fine‑tune one this week.

• Storytelling for Impact: “Once upon our quarterly review” meets real‑world results.

• Behavioural Change Tactics: Tiny word swaps—“should” to “could”—for lasting impact on corporate culture.

3. Julian Mather – Industry Expert on Change‑Ability & Resilience

About Julian

Ex‑National Geographic cameraman for sports stars and astronauts, Julian has extensive experience turning face of adversity tales into daily habits. After his session at my old office, we launched “Failure Fridays”—no one died, but idea flow soared.

Signature Keynote Themes

• CHANGEABILITY Habits: OWN UP, WISE UP, STEP UP—journal one “wise up” take‑away each morning.

• Resilience Rituals: Five‑minute micro‑learning bursts—watch a TED clip and discuss.

• Adaptive Mindsets: Celebrate every tiny win—heck, even nailing your to‑do list.

4. Sonia McDonald – Television Presenter & Courageous Leadership Coach

About Sonia

Sonia McDonald went from single mum on instant noodles to head of LeadershipHQ and Order of Australia Medal recipient. Her “confidence karaoke” had us belting affirmations until the room shook. She’s the role model you didn’t know you needed.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Leadership Is an Attitude: Mirror pep talks—look in that mirror and say, “I’ve got this.”

• Own It or Step Aside: Pick one action that scares you—then share what you learned.

• First Comes Courage: Speak up in the next meeting; note the ripple effect.

5. Tony Meredith – Industry Expert in Business Growth & Mindset

About Tony

Tony’s our go‑to for big business growth spikes—one client saw a 60% uptick in six months. From fintech to fashion, his leadership training and expert insights have elevated customer experience across the board.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Business Growth Playbook: Five steps to fill your pipeline—one cold outreach a day.

• Sales Effectiveness: Pitch role‑plays with your buddy—feedback guaranteed.

• Time Mastery: Track a week of tasks, then kill the 20% that drains you most for that sweet competitive edge.

6. James Taylor – Industry Expert, Innovation & AI Futurist

About James

A bestselling author and advisor to Apple, Sony, Yamaha, James’s unique perspective on digital transformation has reshaped exec mindsets across the Asia-Pacific region. He’s the leadership keynote speaker you call when you want the cutting edge.

Signature Keynote Themes

• AI in Business: Ethical frameworks + hands‑on proto labs—sketch a “what‑if” flowchart.

• Creative Problem‑Solving: Brainstorm in “Yes, and…” mode for positive change.

• Sustainable Innovation: Map a product’s life cycle, sniff out waste, brainstorm fixes.

7. Rachael Robertson – Order of Australia Medal & Team Resilience Coach

About Rachael

Rachael’s year in Antarctica—penguins, blizzards, the whole works—taught her high‑stakes team dynamics and environmental stewardship. She’s a role model for senior leaders, delivering keynote presentations that leave a lasting impact.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Extreme Leadership: Office crisis sim—pull the Wi‑Fi, pick one priority in five minutes.

• High‑Pressure Teamwork: Blindfolded obstacle courses (indoors!).

• Adaptive Decision‑Making: Run a “what if X happens?” rapid brainstorm.

8. Carla McGrath – Industry Expert in Social Impact & Advocacy

About Carla

A social justice champion across five continents, Carla’s advisory services help nonprofits and industry leaders craft stories that move hearts—and wallets. One alum raised $100K after her actionable insights workshop.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Advocacy Strategy: Frame your cause as a hero’s journey—who’s the hero, what’s at stake?

• Ethical Leadership: Kick off board meetings with a “values check.”

• Impact Measurement: Pick one social KPI—track and share weekly.

9. Daniel Allen & Edward Ross – Social Enterprise Founders

About Daniel & Edward

Two tradies turned entrepreneurs, they stitched together TradeMutt—Australia’s biggest social‑enterprise workwear brand. They’re proof that purpose and profit can dance together.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Triple Bottom Line: For every call you make, jot down its people, planet, profit impact.

• Purpose‑Driven Branding: Brainstorm your “why” with your team.

• Impact Metrics: Build a simple dashboard—social vs. financial.

10. Darius Boyd – Rugby League Star & Mental Health Advocate

About Darius

Ex‑NRL champ turned wellness guru, Darius blends battlefield grit from professional sports with raw vulnerability. He’s a top guest speaker at corporate events and virtual events, a true role model for mental health.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Mindfulness in Action: Five‑second breathing breaks before big calls.

• Peer‑Support Protocols: Buddy up for weekly check‑ins—no judgments.

• Performance Rituals: Design a quick prep routine before presentations.

11. Ashleigh Morris – Churchill Fellow & Systems Thinker

About Ashleigh

Remember that beach clean‑up near the Great Barrier Reef? Ashleigh turned it into a full‑blown innovation lab. She’s here to help teams turn waste into opportunity with a dash of science and a ton of valuable insights.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Circular Design: Prototype a zero‑waste packaging idea in 20 minutes.

• Value‑Chain Innovation: Host a “waste hackathon”—see who upcycles best in an hour.

• Stakeholder Collaboration: Map your supply chain on a whiteboard—invite partners to co‑create.

12. Kaylee McKeown OAM – Olympic Champion & Mindset Coach

About Kaylee

Five‑time gold medallist and Order of Australia Medal recipient, Kaylee visualized every stroke for hours pre‑Tokyo. Now she teaches execs to bring that same grind to their goals.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Visualization Techniques: Play your next big win on repeat in your mind.

• Habit Stacking: Link a new habit—like gratitude journaling—to your morning coffee.

• Pre‑Event Rituals: Breathe deeply for one minute before every presentation.

13. Claire Pitman – HR Guru & Personal Development Coach

About Claire

Claire got a shy analyst onto her company’s leadership team just by reshaping her personal brand story. As a television presenter and consultant, her leadership training and human resources chops translate theory into real‑world wins.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Career Mapping: Draw your dream job—then reverse‑engineer the steps.

• Influence Strategies: Start meetings with one “value‑add” pitch.

• Leadership Branding: Pick three words you want people to say about you—then live them.

14. Matthew Denny OLY – Olympic Discipline & Goal‑Setting Coach

About Matthew

From a rowdy family of eight to the Olympic podium, Matthew’s wealth of experience in professional sports shows you how to apply risk management and sprint cycles to business goals.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Training Cycles: 90‑day project sprints—then pause to review.

• Iterative Feedback: Weekly retros: what rocked, what flopped, what’s next?

• Resilience Workouts: Surprise mini‑challenges that bond your team.

15. Ben Hannant – Culture Architect & Speaker

About Ben

Ex‑NRL player and television presenter, Ben’s “silent trust tag” in an office foyer made us telepathic. His presentation skills speaker chops and extensive experience light up any crowd.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Team‑Dynamics Drills: Trust falls, obstacle courses—fun that teaches.

• Conflict Resolution: Role‑play that tough convo, swap seats.

• Culture Clinics: Quarterly “What can we do better?” check‑ins.

16. Cooper Chapman – Wellbeing & Mental Health Coach

About Cooper

Cooper’s surf‑inspired motivational messages prove a 10‑second breath can save your sanity. His virtual events are so calming, you’ll think you’re treading water in the Pacific.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Guided Breathwork: The 4‑7‑8 desk hack.

• Micro‑Meditations: One‑minute pauses before emails.

• Buddy Systems: Weekly check‑ins—no judgments, just support for mental health.

17. Billy Slater – Resilience Coach & Icon

About Billy

After a career‑threatening injury, this rugby league legend rewired his mindset to win again. He’s outstanding leadership awards‑worthy, and a role model who delivers transformational impact at every live event.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Pressure Management: The “one‑minute mental reset”—visualize calm, breathe.

• Adaptive Leadership: Pivot drills—change a project mid‑pitch.

• Debrief Protocols: Spend 10 minutes post‑win or flop unpacking lessons.

18. Bruce Sullivan CSP – Industry Expert in Culture & Change

About Bruce

Bruce earned outstanding leadership awards for flipping a bank stuck in “we’ve always done it this way” into a test‑and‑learn lab. His advisory services and “culture ripple” exercise have skeptics leaning in.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Culture Ripples: Tiny change pilots—celebrate those wins.

• Adoption Metrics: Track one simple metric—like participation—before/after your initiative.

• Change‑Readiness: Quick surveys: “How ready are you for X?”—then tackle the top worry.

19. Gorden Tallis – Grit Master & Team‑Dynamics Coach

About Gorden

“The Raging Bull” brings unfiltered grit from the NRL trenches to your boardroom. His two‑minute plank challenge had us collapsed in laughter and solidarity.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Grit Training: Plank challenges—support each other, celebrate survivors.

• Trust Falls: Yes, real trust falls.

• Peer Feedback Circles: Circle up—share one strength, one growth tip.

20. Darren Lockyer – Agility & Peak Performance Mentor

About Darren

Switching from wing to fullback taught Darren that nimble thinking beats raw power. His “role‑swap” exercise had marketers pitching, sales pros designing campaigns—chaos into camaraderie.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Agile Routines: Swap roles for a day—walk in your colleague’s shoes.

• Scenario Planning: “What if” blitz—pick a crisis, brainstorm fixes in five minutes.

• Resilience Frameworks: Draft your bounce‑back plan now.

21. Zoe Eather – Tech Innovator & Future Skills Coach

About Zoe

A Churchill Fellow, Zoe once taught execs to build chatbots in under an hour—no coding degree needed. Her unique perspective on digital transformation inspires teams to experiment.

Signature Keynote Themes

• Prototype Labs: Use tools like Teachable Machine to whip up an AI demo in 20 minutes.

• Future‑Skills Mapping: Pick one emerging skill—data viz or UX—set a 30‑day plan.

• Human‑Tech Collaboration: Spot where AI can handle drudgery so humans unleash creativity.

How to Book Your Speaker

Availability & Lead Times

These stars get snapped up fast—aim for 8–12 weeks ahead. Use an experienced booking agent to advise on the best approach and secure your speaking engagement.

Pricing & Packages

From a single keynote session to full‑day executive retreats, fees hinge on travel—Gold Coast jet ins, interstate flights or overseas itineraries. Always ask for a clear fee range so there’s no sticker shock.

Customizing Your Session

Want better ways to supercharge your event? Share your career challenges, corporate culture quirks and transformational impact goals. Co‑create with your speaker: choose anecdotes, actionable insights, and even slip in your inside jokes for absolute pleasure.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Why Now Is the Time to Invest in Leadership

Let’s be honest: we’re sprinting through a world of constant disruption. Great leaders aren’t born—they’re forged through personal development, grit and the right spark. Booking inspirational keynote speakers today yields lasting impact on engagement, innovation and your competitive edge—and sets senior leaders up for success.

Call to Action: Enquire Today

Ready to meet your team’s best version? Reach out now and let’s book the perfect speaker. You’ll gain real expert insights, proven best practices, and walk away with a refreshed work‑life balance, ready to build better leaders across your organization.

To enquire about Jonno White for your next event, email [email protected] or call Jonno on +61481 829 906.