Don’t miss your chance to connect, learn and grow at Pawn Expo 2026 — Australia’s must-attend industry event.
Free Authentication & Expert Evaluation • Public Treasure Session 1PM–3PM
Bring your items along and speak directly with specialists from across the second-hand, collectables, luxury, bullion and auction industries.
Full-day access to Pawn Expo 2026, with industry education, networking, live sessions and exclusive expo opportunities.
Save when attending with your team, staff or industry colleagues. Includes all General Admission benefits.
Featured Speakers
Industry experts sharing practical insights across pawnbroking, luxury resale, bullion, compliance, AI in retail and business growth.
Pawn Stars Australia
Ben Senes is an experienced pawnbroker, second-hand dealer and television personality best known for appearing on the A&E series Pawn Stars Australia.
Alongside his brother Aaron Senes and longtime friend Shanon Folden, Ben helped operate Happy Hockers, one of Sydney’s best-known pawnbroking and second-hand retail businesses. The series followed the team’s day-to-day dealings as they assessed, negotiated over and traded everything from jewellery, watches and electronics to rare collectables, sporting memorabilia and unusual historical objects.
With more than two decades of industry experience, Ben understands both the commercial and human sides of pawnbroking. His practical expertise spans customer service, responsible lending, buying, valuation, negotiation and second-hand retail.
Known for his straightforward and approachable manner, Ben has helped challenge outdated perceptions of pawnbroking by showing how professional operators connect customers with short-term finance, affordable second-hand goods and opportunities to unlock value from possessions they no longer need.
Aussie Pickers
Adam McDonald is an accomplished auctioneer, valuer and professional “picker” with more than 20 years of experience in Australia’s auction and collectables industry.
He became widely known as the co-host of Aussie Pickers, travelling across Australia with Lucas Callaghan to uncover antiques, collectables and forgotten treasures hidden in homes, sheds and backyards. Adam has also appeared on the ABC television series Auction Room.
After beginning his working life as a bricklayer, Adam discovered the auction world and quickly turned his fascination with unusual objects into a career. He spent 16 years as Head Auctioneer and Valuer at Lawsons, one of Australia’s oldest auction houses, where he developed particular expertise in 20th-century design and industrial antiques.
Known for his energetic auction style, sharp negotiating skills and ability to recognise value in unexpected places, Adam combines extensive market knowledge with a genuine enthusiasm for the history and stories behind the objects he discovers.
Pawn Stars Australia
Shanon Folden is a highly experienced pawnbroker, second-hand dealer and familiar face from the television series Pawn Stars Australia.
As General Manager of Sydney-based Happy Hockers, Shanon brings more than 20 years of experience in the pawnbroking and second-hand goods industry. Known for his extensive knowledge, passion for history and straightforward approach, he has developed a sharp eye for identifying, researching and valuing unusual objects.
On Pawn Stars Australia, Shanon became known as the team’s “walking encyclopaedia,” assessing everything from sporting memorabilia and rare books to collectables and historical curiosities. His personal collecting interests have included vintage sporting equipment, baseball mitts and yo-yos.
Shanon is also the NSW and ACT Chair of the National Pawnbrokers Association of Australia, helping represent and strengthen the industry across the region.
With his practical expertise, engaging personality and fascination for the stories behind everyday objects, Shanon understands that a forgotten item can sometimes hold surprising history—and unexpected value.
Specialist voices from across the trade
Pawnit Systems
Shaun brings a practical, outcome-focused approach to AI, supported by a strong understanding of manual business processes and a belief that technology should solve real problems rather than be used for its own sake.
With more than 20 years of IT experience, Shaun is an Executive Consultant at Pawnit Systems, helping businesses align technology and AI with practical goals, improved efficiency and sustainable growth.
Founder, Luvluxe
Tania is Luvluxe’s lead authentication specialist, with formal certifications in verifying iconic luxury brands including Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Hermès, YSL and Gucci. With more than a decade of experience in the pre-loved luxury market, combined with a background in technology and global brand partnerships, she brings a unique blend of precision, innovation and industry expertise.
At Pawn Expo Australia, Tania will share practical insights into luxury authentication, counterfeit detection, emerging technologies, and the importance of building customer trust through expert verification and industry best practices.
Event MC
Gaige is the owner of Modus, where he helps businesses grow through strategic marketing, content production, and brand development. Before moving into advertising, he spent years in the secondary luxury watch market, helping found respected dealers including Elita Collection and Lux & Co, developing extensive knowledge of luxury watches, jewellery, and the broader resale industry. He has also worked alongside multiple luxury resellers to develop their marketing strategies and digital presence, giving him a unique understanding of both the commercial and consumer sides of the industry.
As MC, Gaige brings a blend of industry experience, engaging communication, and practical marketing insight, guiding the day’s sessions, facilitating conversations with guest speakers, and keeping the event informative, professional, and enjoyable.
Director, e-CBD
As Director of e-CBD, I have spent more than 25 years helping Australian businesses grow through effective digital marketing and tailored online strategies. e-CBD specialises in website design, SEO, Google Ads and social media marketing, with a focus on increasing visibility, attracting customers and delivering measurable results.
I am passionate about combining technical expertise with clear communication and strong client relationships. At the Expo, I will share practical insights to help businesses strengthen their online presence and achieve sustainable growth.
National Manager – Home, Slattery Grays
Jason brings 20 years of experience in the auction industry with a specialisation in consumer and home-related product.
In his role, Jason works closely with businesses to understand their individual needs, facilitating the efficient turnover of assets by connecting them with the right buyer base. His approach ensures stock is moved strategically without compromising on monetary return, delivering outcomes tailored to each client’s unique requirements.
With two decades of industry expertise, Jason has developed a comprehensive understanding of consumer markets and auction methodology, positioning him as a trusted advisor to organisations across the sector
Gemmological Association of Australia
Gold Bullion Australia Group
Katie Lourey is the Head of Risk and Compliance at Gold Bullion Australia Group, where she oversees risk management, governance, AML/CTF compliance and regulatory affairs across the Group’s precious metals and bullion businesses.
Katie brings extensive experience in financial crime compliance and regulatory risk, with a professional background spanning superannuation, insurance, equities, financial advice and the Financial Ombudsman Service.
Working closely with AUSTRAC requirements and industry best practice, Katie helps businesses understand and implement practical compliance solutions in an increasingly complex regulatory environment. She is also a regular speaker at conferences covering financial crime, AML/CTF compliance, governance and the precious metals industry.
Katie holds a Bachelor of Laws, a Bachelor of Commerce, a Diploma of Financial Planning, a Diploma of Stockbroking and the ADA1 qualification.
Melbourne Mint Gold
Richard Frost is the National Manager of Melbourne Mint Gold Pty Ltd, where he has spent more than 16 years building a strong, client-focused culture.
He brings extensive hands-on and technical knowledge across precious metals, jewellery and gemstones, bullion products, second-hand trading, jewellery retail and manufacturing, as well as industry-specific training programs. With more than 80 years of family history in the trade, Richard quite literally grew up on the shop floor.
Richard has received recognition from both local and international industry organisations and holds diplomas in Business, Marketing and Management, along with qualifications in diamond grading and gemmology.
He offers a practical and informed perspective on business strategy, workflow management, industry development and identifying new opportunities within the precious metals and jewellery sectors.
Vintage Watch Co
First State Auctions
Ari Taibel is the Founder and Director of First State Auctions, Australia’s most trusted online auction house for buyers and sellers of luxury accessories. Ari established First State Auctions in 1995 with a vision to make the auction process open, accessible, and trustworthy for both buyers and sellers across Australia. Over three decades, he has grown the business into a globally recognised online auction destination for fine jewellery, Swiss watches, and designer handbags.
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An auctioneer, a qualified gemmologist and graduate of the Gemmological Association of Australia, Ari brings technical expertise that underpins the rigorous authentication and verification standards First State Auctions is known for. His deep knowledge of fine jewellery, precious stones and luxury accessories gives customers the confidence that every piece is accurately represented and of the highest calibre.
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With more than 30 years of experience and thousands of successful auctions to his name, Ari remains as passionate about the industry today as when he started First State Auctions from his family home in 1995, committed to bringing more joy to buyers and sellers of luxury.
Two practical discussion panels covering compliance, trust, growth and profitability for the pawnbroker and second-hand industry.
Session 1 - 9:00AM
A practical panel covering compliance,
authentication, AML and emerging industry risks.
Topics covered:
Session 2 - 11:00AM
Topics covered:
Session 3 - 1:00PM
A lively panel featuring Shanon Folden and Ben Senes from Pawn Stars Australia, alongside Adam McDonald from Aussie Pickers.
What to expect:
Exhibitors
Meet suppliers, service providers, technology companies, security experts, trade specialists and business partners who understand the pawn, second-hand, jewellery, gold and luxury resale industries.
Meet trade jewellers, bullion dealers, precious metal buyers, refiners and industry suppliers.
Discover tools and services for diamonds, gold, watches, handbags, luxury goods and second-hand inventory.
Explore systems designed to support pawn shops, second-hand stores, jewellery businesses, inventory control and ecommerce.
Connect with CCTV, alarm, monitoring, safe, vault and secure storage providers.
Meet lenders, accountants, bookkeepers, insurance providers and advisors who work with small business.
Find providers offering websites, SEO, social media, online stores, advertising and digital growth strategies.
Build relationships with auction platforms, buyers, liquidation partners and resale channels to help move stock faster.
Connect with professionals who support compliance, risk reduction, reporting, customer trust and business operations.
ATTENDEE PRIZE DRAWS
Your Expo ticket gives you access to industry insights, networking and business opportunities - plus automatic entry into our attendee prize draws.
Win a cruise voucher valued at $2,000.
One lucky attendee will win an emerald ring valued at $23,000.
HOW IT WORKS
Eligible registered ticket holders are automatically entered.
Winners drawn at the Pawn Expo Networking Event.
You must be present to claim your prize.
Terms & Conditions apply.
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In the pawn and second-hand industry, profit is protected by better buying, stronger supplier relationships, accurate valuations, trusted authentication, efficient stock movement and smarter business systems.
Pawn Expo Australia brings these conversations into one room, helping operators see what is changing, who they should know, and what opportunities can help their business grow.
Learn how better buying, authentication, valuations and stock control can reduce costly mistakes.
Connect with auction houses, resale partners, finance providers and technology systems that help stock move faster.
Meet suppliers, service providers and operators who understand the real challenges of the industry.
National Trade Event
A focused national trade event bringing together:
Networking • Education • Product Discovery • Business Opportunities
Planned Industry Attendees
Exhibitor Booths
Networking, Education & Opportunity
Why Attend
Discover the insights, connections and opportunities that can help grow your business at Pawn Expo 2026.
Industry education, compliance updates, gold market insights, AI & marketing strategies, and regulation changes that affect your business.
Connect with pawnbrokers, luxury resale professionals, bullion dealers, watch experts, and suppliers from across Australia and beyond.
Discover new supplier relationships, ecommerce opportunities, and business strategies to scale your operations in today's market.
Industry Voices
"This expo is exactly what the Australian pawnbroking industry has been missing. A professional, focused event that brings everyone together."
Leanne Coneybear
Owner, Loan Lender
Pawnbrokers, gold buyers, jewellery and watch dealers are already booking
Supporting the Heart Foundation
Rick Harrison from Pawn Stars was due to join us at Pawn Expo Australia as our keynote speaker. Sadly, shortly before travelling to Australia, Rick was rushed to hospital and required urgent bypass heart surgery.
In recognition of Rick and what has happened, Pawn Expo Australia is supporting the Heart Foundation and inviting our attendees, exhibitors, speakers and wider community to help us make a difference.
Heart disease affects thousands of Australian families every year, and supporting heart health, research and prevention has never felt more important to us.
Your donation to the Heart Foundation can help:
* fund life-changing heart research
* support health professionals working to prevent, diagnose and treat heart disease
* provide heart-health programs, information and resources for Australians.
Help us turn an unexpected moment into something positive.
If you are attending Pawn Expo Australia, you can make a donation at our Heart Foundation Charity Box, or donate online. https://www.doitforheart.org.au/s/5050/4780
Every contribution, no matter the size, helps support the Heart Foundation`s work towards healthier hearts and a future with less heart disease.
We wish Rick a strong recovery and thank everyone who helps us support this very important cause.
#pawnexpo2026 #doitforheart #heartfoundation #rickharrisonpawnstars
Protect margin in the morning. Improve cashflow before lunch.
At 9:30am, Session 1 explores Compliance, Authentication & Consumer Trust — helping businesses make safer decisions and strengthen customer confidence.
At 11:00am, Session 2 turns to Growth, Cashflow & Customer Connection — with practical ideas for moving forward.
Two focused sessions. One morning away from the day-to-day.
Book now: https://pawnexpo.com.au/
#PawnExpo2026 #Compliance #Authentication #Cashflow #BusinessGrowth
What have you got sitting at home?
Bring selected jewellery, watches, gemstones, luxury goods and collectables to the Let’s Make a Deal Marketplace at Pawn Expo.
Public access: 1pm–3pm
Featuring Lindsay Ballinger — Auction & Collectable Expert — on the Expo Stage.
Meet dealers and industry specialists, learn more about your items and explore the opportunities available.
Friday 18 September
Sharks Event Centre, Southport
Secure your ticket: https://pawnexpo.com.au/ FREE ENTRY 1-3pm
#PawnExpo2026 #Collectables #Jewellery #Watches #GoldCoastEvents
Could one poor buying decision or compliance gap cost more than a day at Pawn Expo?
Session 1 begins at 9:30am and focuses on Compliance, Authentication & Consumer Trust — knowledge that supports better decisions, protects reputation and strengthens customer confidence.
Bring the people in your business who buy, assess, authenticate or work directly with customers.
Book now: https://pawnexpo.com.au/
#PawnExpo2026 #Compliance #Authentication #ConsumerTrust #Pawnbrokers
We’re sorry to announce that, following a recent medical emergency, Rick Harrison will no longer be able to attend Pawn Expo Australia.
Most importantly, we’re very pleased to hear that Rick is doing better, and we wish him all the best with his recovery.
While Rick will be missed, the event is still going ahead, with Ben and Shannon from Aussie Pawn Brokers, alongside Adam from Australian Pickers, stepping up to join us for the day.
We’re incredibly grateful to them for jumping in, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to Pawn Expo Australia on Friday, 18 September.
Australia’s Pawnbroking & Second-Hand Industry Connect – bringing together 1,000+ pawnbrokers, gold buyers, second-hand dealers, jewellers and industry professionals at Australia’s premier industry event.