Western Australia’s international education community is coming together once again, with the Council for International Students of Western Australia (CISWA) set to host its 32nd Annual Conference on Friday, 14 November 2025 at Murdoch University’s Boola Katitjin campus.
Under the theme “Valuing Our International Students: Learning, Living & Working Together,” the full-day event (9 am – 4 pm) will highlight the contributions international students make not only in classrooms, but across Western Australia’s economy, workplaces and communities.
The conference opens with CISWA President Celia Cornwell, followed by a ministerial address from the Hon. Parwinder Kaur MLC, who will also deliver the day’s keynote reflection, sharing her inspiring journey from international student to academic, entrepreneur and parliamentarian.
Attendees will also hear from Phil Honeywood, CEO of the International Education Association of Australia (IEAA), who will provide a national overview of the international education landscape — setting the tone for a day focused on collaboration, innovation and student wellbeing.
The Employer Panel, featuring leading WA industry representatives, will explore how international students contribute to the local workforce and help fill critical skill gaps.
Later in the morning, StudyPerth CEO Derryn Belford will introduce a suite of sessions focused on employability and student support. Cema Santos will present a spotlight on StudyPerth’s Career Mentoring Program, showcasing how mentoring can strengthen pathways from study to meaningful employment.
Accommodation will also take centre stage, with David Cresp from Urbis delivering the PBSA Insights session — unpacking new developments in WA and national purpose-built student housing, a particularly relevant issue as demand for student accommodation continues to rise.
The afternoon will shift attention to the school sector and the student experience. The Schools Sector Panel will feature voices including James Kent (Ocean Reef SHS) and other school leaders, exploring how international education is being fostered at the secondary level.
Dr Linda Yang (ICDI) will chair the current student panel — featuring Vivian Oh, Janvi Shah, Thais Carracoza, Felipe Pinto, Joseph Covell while Danielle Rock will chair another with graduates such as Vishwa Patel, Shufaa Athman, Hollie Tran, Natalia Murcia Garcia,Alberto Aguilera Revillot — offering authentic insights into studying, living and working in Western Australia.
In true CISWA fashion, the conference is also about connection. Delegates will enjoy ample networking opportunities, including morning tea, lunch and “Drinks on the Deck” from 4 pm – 5 pm.
Tickets are priced at $195 for CISWA members and $295 for non-members, with complimentary places available to Gold and Silver member institutions.
Why this event matters
For Western Australia, this year’s conference underscores the growing recognition that international students are integral to the state’s social and economic fabric. By focusing on how students learn, live and work in WA, CISWA is helping shape policy and practice that strengthens both community outcomes and student success.
For more information and to register, see here.
