Hello members and industry colleagues,

I take much pleasure in inviting you to join us and your peers for the 2018 ACPET National Conference and Asia Pacific International Education Forum (APIEF) events from 29 – 31 August in Canberra.

Last year we celebrated 25 years of ACPET and contemplated what had been achieved over that time, and how far we’d come from simple beginnings. It was a lot. Having done the look back, this year is about looking forward. The reflection’s done. It’s time to be visionary.

Education is one of Australia’s largest industries. It is our largest service export industry, and 3^rd largest overall. Australia is the world’s third most popular location for students (behind the US and UK). The contribution that the private tertiary sector, and in particular ACPET’s members, cannot be understated. Domestically private providers deliver the majority of VET, and a growing proportion of higher education.

It’s important that we come together annually as a sector, to discuss how we continue to increase the traction that we’re collectively gaining each year and to improve the outcomes for our students, industry and the Australian community.

What has remained constant in the past few years is change. I wouldn’t disagree with anyone who described it as substantial. It’s often beyond our control, irrespective of how much we attempt to shape it. We can only expect that this will continue. The most effective way to manage and cope is to be informed. Forewarned is forearmed as they say. This year’s events provide an opportunity to keep abreast of the very latest issues and topics and what they mean for our sector, students and industry stakeholders. Our program speakers are leading decision makers and policymakers, respected observers, and skilled practitioners at the top of their game.

Attendees will also have the chance to interact with other delegates over the three days, who will include key leaders and influencers across our diverse sector.

Canberra has been rated the number three city to visit in 2018 by Lonely Planet. On the cusp of spring, the days are pleasantly temperate. Canberra’s national attractions help to tell a story that is uniquely Australian. We have special plans for the social calendar that will feature a prominent venue in our national capital, but there’s so much more to see and do.

The future is where a difference can be made, and that’s what this year’s event will be all about.

Click here for more information.