The Harvard-educated gaming pioneer worked for Apple, with Steve Jobs, from 1978 to 1982 before founding companies Electronic Arts and later Digital Chocolate.

He will present the keynote speech about the business of game development, game design and the opportunities for innovation in games.

''It's great to be able to connect with Australian developers and I'm looking forward to giving audiences hands-on practical value from my presentation,'' Mr Hawkins said.

iFEST - organised by Canberra-based Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE) - is a free festival for independent game developers.

Other speakers include Fruit Ninja developers Half Brick studios, Epoch makers Uppercut Studios, and Jolly Roger creators Brawsome.

AIE chief executive John De Margheriti said the festival supported new and emerging developers.

''It's a huge compliment to our indie developer community that Trip Hawkins and a number of prominent Australian developers are devoting their time to give advice and encouragement to our local community,'' he said.

The event starts at 9.30am at the Canberra Technology Park in Weston. Visit www.ifest.com.au.