International education professionals from across Australia and New Zealand gathered at Metropolis Melbourne on 8–9 September for the 35th ISANA Conference, held under the theme Resilient Futures: Leading Through Transformation.
The conference celebrated the knowledge, commitment and collaboration of the people who support international students throughout their educational journeys. Across two energising days, sector leaders, regulators, researchers, practitioners and students exchanged ideas, shared practical experience and explored how international education can respond confidently to change.
The program reflected both the complexity of the current environment and the determination of the sector to keep moving forward. Presentations and discussions explored student wellbeing and safety, belonging, leadership, regulation and compliance, emerging technologies, employability, student engagement and innovative approaches to support.
A defining strength of the conference was its practical focus. Speakers moved beyond identifying challenges to sharing real examples, strategies and lessons that participants could take back to their institutions and professional communities.
Sessions addressing student resilience and belonging, regulatory developments, ESOS best practice, international student safety and insights from student complaints generated particularly strong interest. Other valued discussions examined under-18 care, human-centred artificial intelligence, employability, professional networking and holistic leadership.
Celebrating the people behind the conference
The success of the conference was made possible by the generosity and commitment of its speakers, presenters, panellists and session chairs. Their expertise, openness and willingness to share both successful initiatives and lessons learned created a rich and relevant professional learning experience.
At the heart of the conference’s success was the exceptional leadership of the Conference Convenor, whose vision, creativity and unwavering commitment shaped every stage of the event. From curating a relevant and ambitious program to bringing together speakers, partners and sector leaders, the Convenor transformed the conference theme into an engaging experience that reflected the challenges, achievements and aspirations of the international education community.
We also recognise the outstanding contribution of the Communications Manager, who developed a brand-new communications strategy and explored promotional opportunities not previously used by the conference. Through fresh messaging, new channels and a more proactive approach to engagement, this work expanded the conference’s reach, strengthened its visibility and created new ways to connect with speakers, delegates, partners and the wider sector.
These achievements were supported by the dedication of the Conference Organising Committee, whose collective expertise, energy and teamwork turned an ambitious vision into a memorable and professionally delivered event.
ISANA also extends its sincere appreciation to Study Melbourne, our host partner, for its valued support of the 35th ISANA Conference. Study Melbourne’s contribution strengthened the event and helped us welcome the international education community to Melbourne. Its participation in the Awards Dinner also helped us celebrate the individuals, organisations and initiatives making an outstanding contribution to international education. We are grateful for Study Melbourne’s continued commitment to international students and to the professionals who support them.
The conference also demonstrated the importance of student voice. Hearing directly from students brought an essential perspective to discussions about support, safety, belonging and institutional practice. Their contributions reminded delegates that meaningful transformation begins with listening to the people most affected by the decisions institutions make.
Equally important were the connections formed throughout the event. Delegates exchanged ideas across institutional and professional boundaries, renewed existing relationships and established new networks. These conversations reinforced a shared understanding that many of the sector’s challenges cannot be addressed in isolation.
Recognising sector leadership and achievement
The conference provided an opportunity to acknowledge outstanding contributions to international education through the ISANA Awards. The Awards Dinner celebrated individuals, organisations, partnerships and initiatives demonstrating leadership, innovation, inclusion and lasting commitment to international students and the wider sector.
These achievements reflect the breadth of expertise within the ISANA community – from frontline student support and professional practice to research, partnerships, emerging leadership and long-term service.
The event also recognised the important contribution of conference partners and supporters. Their involvement helped bring the international education community together and created opportunities for meaningful exchange between institutions, government, industry and practitioners.
Building resilient futures together
The 2026 conference affirmed ISANA’s role as a professional community where practitioners can learn from experts, colleagues and students; discuss complex issues honestly; and develop practical responses to emerging challenges.
It also highlighted the qualities that continue to define the ISANA community: generosity, collaboration, professional curiosity and a shared commitment to improving the international student experience.
ISANA extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed to the conference—delegates, speakers, presenters, panellists, session chairs, students, partners, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers and members of the organising team. Their collective contribution made the 35th ISANA Conference a memorable celebration of professional learning, connection and sector achievement.
The momentum created in Melbourne will continue as the ISANA community looks ahead to the 2027 national conference on the Gold Coast, carrying forward the ideas, relationships and renewed sense of purpose established in 2026.
Annette Kalczynska is the President of ISANA
