This year, we are also going to try something new and bold. We will create an opportunity for the AAIR community to come together to tackle a wicked problem, one that cuts across data governance, engagement with government, and the future of our profession. This collaborative initiative will not only strengthen our association and our industry, but also advance our thought leadership and influencing skills.
From the President
As we step into 2026, I want to begin by extending my sincere thanks to everyone who attended the 2025 AAIR Forum on the Gold Coast.
The Forum was a standout event, rich with valuable presentations, thoughtful and generous conversations, and a genuine openness to sharing ideas, experiences, and perspectives. What made it especially special was the willingness of so many to meet new people, reconnect with colleagues, and strengthen the sense of community that defines AAIR.
My heartfelt thanks go to Southern Cross University for hosting such a successful and welcoming event, and to our event management team Leishman Associates for their ongoing support and partnership. Their contribution behind the scenes continues to be instrumental in enabling AAIR to deliver forums that are not only professionally enriching but also warm, inclusive, and energising.
And that energy is something we are carrying forward into what promises to be an incredibly exciting year ahead.
In 2026, AAIR will deliver the largest online events calendar we have ever offered. This expanded program reflects our commitment to accessibility, flexibility, and continuous learning, ensuring that our members can connect, learn, and share, regardless of their location or role. Whether you are new to institutional research or a long‑standing leader in the field, there will be something for everyone throughout 2026.
We are also thrilled to be introducing a new special interest group (SIG) focused on Data Governance. This is an area of growing importance and complexity across our sector, and we are super excited about creating a dedicated space for members to explore challenges, share emerging practice, and build collective capability. This SIG will provide a strong platform for collaboration and thought leadership in a domain that underpins trust, quality, and impact in institutional research. Thank you to Tanya Parker (University of the Sunshine Coast) and Louise Branch-Smith (Murdoch University) for stepping into the co-chair role to lead this very relevant SIG.
Another highlight for 2026 is that we will be travelling across the ditch to New Zealand for our Annual Forum. We are deeply committed to growing and strengthening AAIR as a truly Australasian association. Staying connected with our New Zealand peers – sharing knowledge, experiences, and perspectives – benefits all members and helps uplift our collective capabilities across the region. We are very much looking forward to reconnecting in person and continuing to build those important trans‑Tasman relationships.
There is so much to look forward to! Get excited, as 2026 has a lot in store for you all. Thank you for being part of this vibrant, generous, and forward‑looking community. I can’t wait to see what we will achieve together this year.
Warm regards
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