With just 16 weeks to go, momentum is building fast for the 2025 Australian International Education Conference (AIEC), set to take place in Canberra this October. Organised by IDP Education, AIEC is the premier annual gathering for professionals working in international education across Australia and beyond. Each year, the conference provides a platform for connection, thought leadership, and cutting-edge discussion on the latest trends and challenges facing the global education sector.
This year’s event is shaping up to be one of the most engaging, with major announcements already setting the tone for what’s to come.
Super Early Bird Registration Now Open
Registrations for AIEC 2025 are officially open, and delegates who act quickly can take advantage of significant savings. The Super Early Bird registration offer is available until 31 July and provides savings of up to $300. With interest in the event growing, securing a spot early not only guarantees access but also delivers excellent value across sessions, networking opportunities like Braindate, social events and more.
Keynote Speakers Announced
A major highlight for AIEC each year is its lineup of keynote speakers, and 2025 is no exception. The first round of keynote speakers has just been revealed, showcasing a group of leaders and innovators who are set to inspire and challenge audiences with their insights and expertise.
Two keynote speakers have already been announced:
Professor Peter Greste
Award-winning broadcast journalist, academic, media freedom activist and author
Peter Greste spent two decades reporting from the front lines in some of the world’s most dangerous countries before making headlines himself following his own incarceration in an Egyptian prison. Charged with terrorism, and enduring a sham trial, solitary confinement and detention, Greste himself became a victim of what he describes as the new global war on journalism.
Dr Gill Hicks AM MBE
Artist, published author, musician and award-winning director / producer
Gill Hicks is a powerful and thought-provoking communicator, sharing her insights on life after death.
To explore the full list of confirmed keynote speakers and learn more about their backgrounds, visit: aiec.idp.com/speakers.
Program Launch Coming 18 June
The AIEC program is always rich with thought-provoking sessions, expert panels, and practical workshops – and this year’s offering promises to be no different. The full conference program will be released on Tuesday, 18 June. Attendees can expect a diverse and dynamic schedule covering policy, student experience, partnerships, research, and much more.
Keep an eye on the official AIEC program page next week for details: aiec.idp.com/program.
Master of Ceremonies to Be Revealed Imminently
The Master of Ceremonies (MC) plays a key role in setting the tone for the event, guiding participants through the days of discussion and celebration. The MC for AIEC 2025 will be announced shortly, with an EDM landing in subscribers’ inboxes soon. Past MCs have brought energy, insight, and humour to the stage, and expectations are high for this year’s host.
Sponsorship and Exhibition
Opportunities to sponsor the event and exhibition spaces are still available. For more information, see here.
Stay Connected
With many more announcements still to come, now is the perfect time to subscribe to the AIEC newsletter. Subscribers receive first-hand updates on speakers, programming, networking opportunities, and travel tips for those planning their visit to Canberra. To stay in the loop and make the most of the lead-up to AIEC 2025, sign up here: aiec.idp.com/subscribe.
As the countdown continues and preparations ramp up, AIEC 2025 is shaping up to be a not-to-be-missed event on the international education calendar. Whether you’re a seasoned delegate or attending for the first time, this October’s gathering in Canberra promises to offer knowledge, connection, and inspiration in equal measure.
