With the Australian International Education Conference (AIEC) just around the corner, delegates are preparing for another week of ideas, networking and insights shaping the future of global education.
Whether it’s your first AIEC or your fifteenth, the program is packed with opportunities to learn, connect and collaborate. To help you make the most of it, The Koala News has rounded up the five must-do experiences at AIEC 2025 — from interactive challenges to thought-provoking panels and a star-studded closing plenary.
- Join the Conference Quest – and win big
Conference Quest is back — and it’s not just for fun. This interactive game runs across the entire conference, rewarding delegates for exploring sessions, meeting exhibitors, and engaging with peers.
Played through the AIEC App, the Quest turns the conference into an adventure, complete with great prizes and bragging rights for those who complete the most challenges. Think of it as professional networking meets treasure hunt — a playful reminder that learning doesn’t have to stay in the session room.
- Step into the Solutions Room
New to this year’s program, the Solutions Room is one of AIEC’s most anticipated formats. Designed as an interactive and collaborative problem-solving space, these sessions bring together delegates to unpack real-world sector challenges through peer insight and shared experience.
Rather than traditional presentations, the Solutions Room invites everyone to contribute ideas, test solutions and draw on the diverse perspectives in the room. Expect meaningful discussion, innovative thinking and connections that last beyond the conference week.
- Don’t miss the Town Hall – policy meets practice
This year’s Town Hall is set to be one of the most important sessions for providers navigating policy change. The discussion will focus on the key NOSC (National Occupational Shortage Classification) exemptions introduced by the re-elected Albanese Government — and what they mean for education institutions.
Panelists will explore questions such as:
- What evidence must providers show to qualify for exemptions linked to Southeast Asia recruitment or new PBSA (Purpose-Built Student Accommodation) provision?
- How is the TNE exemption playing out on the ground?
- And crucially, how do regional providers fit into the 2026 NOSC framework?
If you want to stay ahead of policy developments shaping your institution’s strategy, this session is unmissable.
- Book a Braindate – your conference, your conversation
Sponsored by the University of Adelaide, Braindate offers a one-of-a-kind way to network. Instead of exchanging business cards over coffee, Braindate matches you with other delegates for focused, small-group or one-on-one conversations based on shared topics of interest.
It’s a chance to discuss exactly what matters to you — whether that’s AI in student recruitment, transnational partnerships, sustainability, or sector leadership. Bring an idea, a question, or just curiosity, and let the algorithm (and serendipity) do the rest.
- Finish strong with the Friday Plenary
If you’re tempted to duck out early — don’t. The Friday Plenary is shaping up as one of AIEC’s best ever, featuring a powerful lineup of speakers and performances.
Highlights include:
- The Ambassador Session bringing together diplomatic perspectives on international education;
- A performance by Suara Dance celebrating cultural connection;
- Keynote appearances from Peter Greste and Bill Shorten, discussing the global media landscape and inclusion policy;
- And, of course, the big reveal of AIEC 2026’s host city.
It’s a fitting finale — equal parts inspiration, reflection and celebration of a sector that continues to evolve with purpose.
One week, endless opportunities
With so much on offer, AIEC 2025 promises to be more than a conference — it’s a conversation about where international education is heading next. Whether you’re there to network, learn, or just soak up the energy of the sector’s biggest annual gathering, make sure you don’t miss these five highlights.
See you at AIEC!
