Building on the success and insights from 2025, this year’s conference will explore practical applications of governance with special emphasis on navigating the rapidly evolving landscape, financial sustainability, and changing student expectations. The day will also include workshops on emerging challenges in the sector, and dedicated networking sessions to facilitate deeper collaboration among institutions.
Learning and Events
AAIR has made its best effort to find and publish events relevant to the AAIR community, and makes no representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the contents of this events page. If you wish to register for any of the events listed, you take full responsibility for your actions. AAIR shall not be held liable to any party for any damages arising directly or indirectly from any use of this material, which is provided as is, and without warranties. All links are for information purposes only and are not warranted for content, accuracy or any other implied or explicit purpose.
AAIR in Aotearoa: Supporting Your Professional Practice
13 April 2026 (11–11:40 am NZST / 9–9:40 am AEST)
Online
LIVE WEBINAAIR
Presenters:
- Stuart Terry (AAIR Immediate Past President), Organisational Researcher at Otago Polytechnic, New Zealand
- Ewa Seidel (AAIR President), Associate Director, Research Engagement and Success at Flinders University, Australia
Nau mai, haere mai
Are you working in the tertiary education sector in Aotearoa New Zealand — in a university, wānanga, polytechnic, or private training establishment (PTE) — and looking to strengthen your professional practice in data, insights, planning, or institutional research?
Join us for a relaxed online session exploring how the Australasian Association for Institutional Research (AAIR) can support your work within an Aotearoa New Zealand context. This is a free session, and you do not need to be an AAIR member to attend.
AAIR is the leading professional body for practitioners working in data, analytics, planning, and institutional research, with a growing community of over 320 members across Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, and the Pacific.
In this session, we will focus on what AAIR offers you professionally — the opportunity to connect with peers facing similar challenges, contribute to a network that actively shares professional practice, and learn from approaches used across the tertiary sector. Through its Australasian network, AAIR enables you to bring broader perspectives and proven practices back into your own organisational context in Aotearoa New Zealand.
We will also introduce ways to get involved, including Special Interest Groups, events, and opportunities to connect with others working in data, analytics, planning, quality, and institutional research across Aotearoa and Australia.
Whether you are new to this work or more experienced, this session will help you strengthen your practice, expand your professional network, and gain ideas you can apply in your role.
Join us to connect with others across Aotearoa and explore how AAIR can support you to do your work with greater confidence, insight, and impact.
Pricing:
- Members: FREE
- Non-members: Also FREE
THIS IS A LIVE WEBINAAIR. A RECORDING WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE.
2025 ESS National Results
15 April 2026 (2–3 pm AEST / 4–5pm NZST)
Online
This month’s webinar will cover the key findings and insights from the 2025 ESS National Report, which was released on Wednesday 1 April. Note that this webinar will run for 60 minutes.
Please feel free to forward this invitation to other colleagues who may be interested in attending.
If you are unable to attend, a recording will be made available on the QILT Provider Portal.
Institutional Research: Making data available to drive strategic decision making
16 April 2026 (12–1 pm AEST / 2–3pm NZST)
Online
LIVE WEBINAAIR
- Presenter: Brooklyn Coyle, Manager, Performance Analysis, University of the Sunshine Coast
- Facilitator: Lisa Bolton, AAIR Executive Committee member
Biography
Brooklyn Coyle is a higher-education leader who brings extensive private-sector commercial expertise to the sector. At the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC), Brooklyn drives executive decision-making in enrolment strategy, strategic planning, analytics, and performance reporting, translating complex data into clear, actionable insights. With a strong track record in the private sector leading strategy, stakeholder engagement, and operational delivery, Brooklyn applies a results-oriented approach that balances regulatory requirements with market dynamics. This commercial grounding informs a pragmatic style that strengthens evidence-based decisions and enables effective cross-functional execution. Known for crisp analysis and collaborative leadership, Brooklyn supports institutional strategy through insights and analytics that deliver impact for students, staff, and communities.
Abstract
The delivery of UniSC’s Strategic Plan 2025–2028 is supported by a new Institutional Research (IR) Framework designed to embed evidence-based insights at every stage of decision making. This presentation introduces the model and its practical application in driving outcomes across the institution.
At its core, the framework identifies key value drivers that link institutional research to strategic priorities. These drivers are operationalised through a structured institutional research cycle ensuring research activities are purposeful, transparent, and outcome focused.
The session will also outline the institutional research engagement approach, which emphasises cross functional collaboration and partnering for impact to translate analytics into decisions that matter for students, staff, and communities. Finally, the presentation will showcase the suite of institutional research outputs, from deliverables and design principles to integration mechanisms, that make data accessible, actionable, and strategically aligned.
Delegates will gain practical insights into how a deliberately designed IR model can strengthen institutional agility, enhance evidence-based planning, and embed a culture of continuous improvement. By connecting strategy, research, and implementation, this framework offers a replicable approach for universities seeking to maximise the value of institutional research in an era of complexity and change.
Pricing:
- Members: FREE
- Non-members: $75.74 (AUD$65 + GST + booking fee)
THIS IS A LIVE WEBINAAIR. A RECORDING WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE.
Igniting global transformation: Asia’s leadership
22–24 April 2026
Hong Kong
The THE Asia Universities Summit 2026 will take place in partnership with The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology to mark both the university’s 35th anniversary and a decade since it last hosted the summit. Against this milestone backdrop, the summit will explore Asia’s rise as a global leader in innovation and the pivotal role of universities in shaping humanity’s future.
Across three days of dynamic content, we will unpack how Asia is redefining progress – from breakthrough science and entrepreneurial energy to scalable solutions for climate, health and urban resilience, alongside its growing power in influencing global standards for AI, education and the future of innovation in an age of disruption.
Member Virtual Networking – What’s Working (and What’s Not) in Cross-Collaboration
23 April 2026 (12–1 pm AEST / 2–3pm NZST)
Online
LIVE WEBINAAIR
Facilitator: Lisa Bolton (AAIR Executive Committee member), Australia
What’s really working when it comes to cross-collaboration in institutional research – and what’s not?
Join fellow AAIR members for an interactive virtual networking session where we’ll share honest insights, real experiences and practical lessons from across the sector. Whether you’ve found approaches that work well or are navigating ongoing challenges, this is a space to exchange ideas and learn from one another.
Bring along your own examples and be part of a collaborative discussion on how we can strengthen partnerships, break down silos, and improve the way we work together to support better decision making.
This informal session is all about connection, conversation and community – an opportunity to learn from peers and build valuable professional relationships across AAIR.
Pricing:
- Members: FREE
- Non-members: $75.74 (AUD$65 + GST + booking fee)
THIS IS A LIVE WEBINAAIR. A RECORDING WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE.
Forecasting Demand Driven Equity Funding: What’s Working (and What’s Not)
30 April 2026 (12–1pm AEST / 2–3pm NZST)
Online
LIVE WEBINAAIR
Facilitators:
- Gabrielle Harrison, Load Management & Planning SIG Co-Chair (and Senior Advisor Funding Policy and Planning, University of Melbourne)
- Alexandra Sieniarski, Load Management & Planning SIG Co-Chair (and Director, Analytics, Planning and Performance, The University of Notre Dame Australia)
Join the Load Management & Planning Special Interest Group for an interactive information exchange focused on forecasting demand driven equity funding.
This session is designed as a practical, peer-led discussion where members will share how their institutions are approaching forecasting, demand management, and funding modelling in a rapidly evolving policy environment. The Load Management & Planning SIG provides a forum to exchange ideas, improve processes, and build connections across the sector.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own examples to the discussion – what’s working well, what challenges remain, and what lessons have been learned along the way. Through shared experiences, we will explore different approaches to forecasting and managing demand driven equity funding, including how institutions are adapting models, assumptions, and processes.
We will also open the discussion to insights and experiences from across the sector, including reflections on approaches such as those used at The University of Melbourne.
This is a collaborative and engaging session designed to support practical learning, strengthen professional networks, and provide real-world insights you can apply in your own context.
What to expect:
- Peer-led discussion and knowledge sharing
- Practical examples from across institutions
- Open conversation on challenges and approaches
- Opportunity to ask questions and learn from others
Pricing:
- Members: FREE
- Non-members: $75.74 (AUD$65 + GST + booking fee)
THIS IS A LIVE WEBINAAIR. A RECORDING WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE.
ICSMHE 2026: 20. International Conference on Strategic Management in Higher Education
11–12 May 2026
Sydney, Australia
The International Research Conference is a federated organization dedicated to bringing together a significant number of diverse scholarly events for presentation within the conference program. Events will run over a span of time during the conference depending on the number and length of the presentations. With its high quality, it provides an exceptional value for students, academics and industry researchers.
International Conference on Strategic Management in Higher Education aims to bring together leading academic scientists, researchers and research scholars to exchange and share their experiences and research results on all aspects of Strategic Management in Higher Education. It also provides a premier interdisciplinary platform for researchers, practitioners and educators to present and discuss the most recent innovations, trends, and concerns as well as practical challenges encountered and solutions adopted in the fields of Strategic Management in Higher Education.
ICSMHE 2027: 21. International Conference on Strategic Management in Higher Education
17–18 May 2027
Sydney, Australia
The International Research Conference is a federated organization dedicated to bringing together a significant number of diverse scholarly events for presentation within the conference program. Events will run over a span of time during the conference depending on the number and length of the presentations. With its high quality, it provides an exceptional value for students, academics and industry researchers.
International Conference on Strategic Management in Higher Education aims to bring together leading academic scientists, researchers and research scholars to exchange and share their experiences and research results on all aspects of Strategic Management in Higher Education. It also provides a premier interdisciplinary platform for researchers, practitioners and educators to present and discuss the most recent innovations, trends, and concerns as well as practical challenges encountered and solutions adopted in the fields of Strategic Management in Higher Education.
Advancing learning, innovation and societal impact
12–14 May 2026
Barranquilla, Colombia
Building on the success of previous editions, the THE Latin America Universities Summit 2026 will once again bring together university leaders, policymakers and industry voices to shape the future of higher education across the region.
We are delighted to be heading to Barranquilla, in Colombia, which has evolved from a traditional port city into a regional innovation ecosystem, blending history, culture, education and technology. Its transformation is rooted in a legacy of early modernisation and has been enriched by a vibrant and diverse cultural identity.
Against this backdrop, the summit will explore how higher education can drive institutional excellence and regional impact by addressing the risks and opportunities of digital transformation in higher education – from AI and cybersecurity to digital equity and access.
Don’t miss your chance to stay ahead of the conversation and be part of the next chapter of leadership and innovation in Latin America.
AIR Forum 2026
26–29 May 2026
Marriott Marquis, Washington, D.C.
The AIR Forum, the annual conference of the Association for Institutional Research (AIR), is the largest global gathering of higher education professionals working in institutional research, assessment, planning, and related postsecondary education fields. This conference includes more than 300 presentations by colleagues and thought leaders representing all sectors of higher education and an Exhibit Hall featuring the latest tools and resources to support data use for decision making.
AIR Forum presents a unique opportunity to network with peers, share best practices, and learn from practical workshops and sessions led by the field’s leading experts. AIR Forum is the must-attend event for both seasoned and early-career professionals.
Ensuring AI for the public good
3–4 June 2026
Buffalo, NY, USA
Join us at the University at Buffalo for the IHE US AI Summit 2026, where leaders from higher education, industry and policy will come together to shape the future of artificial intelligence in the service of society.
At a defining moment for AI, this summit moves beyond theory to focus on action – exploring the governance frameworks, cross-sector partnerships and practical decisions required to advance trustworthy, responsible AI.
High-level panels, applied case studies and collaborative discussions will examine how AI can strengthen public infrastructure, expand economic opportunity and enhance human creativity while delivering measurable public value.
Explorance World 2026
16–19 June 2026
Boston University, Boston, MA
Wired to Know: Listening in the Age of Intelligence
In an era defined by complexity, uncertainty, and speed, one capability has become indispensable: the ability to listen intelligently. At Explorance World 2026, you’re invited to explore what it means to become truly “wired to know.” To build organizations that listen continuously, understand deeply, and act with clarity.
Build Feedback Cultures That Change Lives
At Explorance World 2026, discover how your organization can:
- Evolve from feedback systems to listening ecosystems
- Amplify your people’s voice without increasing their effort
- Align feedback strategy with agility, performance, and well-being
Help shape a future where insights fuel organizations that thrive because they’re wired to know.
Annual HERDSA Conference
6–9 July 2026
Singapore
Higher Education Research and Development Society of Australasia (HERDSA) invites you to the 2026 Annual Conference
Join us from 6–9 July 2026 as the HERDSA Annual Conference heads to Singapore – our first event outside Australia in over five years.
The 2026 conference will be jointly organised by six Singapore Institutes of Higher Learning and two Australian universities with campuses in Singapore. It will be held at University Town, National University of Singapore – a vibrant space for ideas, innovation, and community.
This year’s theme – Re-envisioning Higher Education for Tomorrow’s Learners – invites educators, leaders, and policymakers to explore and rethink the future of learning. Through reflection and new approaches to teaching, the conference aims to address the needs of a rapidly changing world.
The program begins with pre-conference workshops, followed by three days of keynotes, interactive sessions, and networking with colleagues from Australia, Asia, and beyond. A one-day virtual program is also available for those unable to attend in person.
HEIR Network Annual Conference 2026
3–4 September 2026
Dundee, UK
Enhancement, compassion, analytics, and data: supporting institutional success
Join us at Abertay University in Dundee on 3–4 September 2026 for two days of discussion, collaboration, and idea-sharing. The conference will explore how enhancement, compassion, analytics, and data support success across higher education.
This year’s themes are:
- Transitions and outcomes
- Curriculum and enhancement
- Learning environments
- Institutional strategy and planning
We welcome submissions showcasing innovation, insight, and impact across the sector, including:
- Research and evaluation papers
- Lightning talks
- Posters
Whether sharing research, practical work, or early ideas, there’s a format for you.
Submission deadline: 28 April 2026 – submit early and help shape this engaging and supportive event.
Preparing students, staff and systems for the changing world
4–5 November 2026
Bath, UK
Join us in Bath for Student Success UK&IE 2026, an event focused on improving student outcomes through innovative pedagogical practices, support services and the data that underpins them.
Designed for higher education professionals across student engagement, academic success, careers services, teaching, learning, well-being and student analytics, the event unites leading voices from universities and industry to showcase impactful examples of collaboration as well as innovative approaches to promoting success at every stage of the student journey.
AAIR Forum 2026
25–27 November 2026
Albany, New Zealand
The 2026 AAIR Forum will be hosted by Massey University at its stunning Albany campus in Auckland, New Zealand. Bringing together institutional research professionals from across Australasia, the Forum will offer valuable opportunities to connect, share insights and explore emerging trends in data, analytics and strategy in higher education. More details will be released soon—stay tuned for what promises to be an inspiring and collaborative event.
Artificial Intelligence in Education Conference Series
30 April 2026 + other dates
Darwin, Hobart, Sydney, Cairns, Geelong, Adelaide, Perth
Join your region’s education network for thought-provoking keynotes, interactive panels, and in-depth workshops designed to inspire progress and drive collaboration.
The AI in Education Conference Series continues to grow – bringing together educators, innovators, and decision-makers to shape the future of teaching and learning with AI.
In 2025, the series travelled to six states, including New South Wales, Tasmania, Western Australia, Victoria, South Australia, and Queensland, delivering region-specific insights and practical strategies to thousands of attendees.
In 2026, we’re expanding even further- reaching all eight states and territories with nine events across the country, including Darwin, Canberra, Cairns, and Brisbane.
Each event offers a unique opportunity to:
- Hear from leading voices in education and technology
- Explore ethical, practical, and pedagogical applications of AI
- Connect with your region’s education network
- Participate in interactive panels and hands-on workshops
Whether you’re a teacher, school leader, policymaker, or technologist, this is your chance to be part of a national conversation that’s shaping the future of learning.
Explore upcoming events in your state or territory and join us in 2026.
- 30 Apr, Hilton Hotel Darwin
- 12 May, Hotel Grand Chancellor, Hobart
- 19 May, Swissotel Sydney
- 29 July, Cairns
- 13 Aug, GCEC Geelong
- Date tbc, Adelaide
- Date tbc, Perth