VET National Teaching & Learning Conference 2026

2026 KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Daniel Joinbee

Australian Defence Force Veteran, Experienced Business Leader & Indigenous Business Founder

Mel Neil

Leading Expert in the Practical Application of Human Flourishing

Noddy Sharma

Leading the Shift: Guiding Humanity to Its Next Future

SPEAKERS

PROGRAM SCHEDULE

DIGITAL PROGRAM

2026 CONFERENCE OVERVIEW

SOLD OUT EVENT: The VET Development Centre once again delivered one of Australia's leading teaching and learning conferences for the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector, continuing a proud 21-year tradition of professional learning excellence. The VET National Teaching & Learning Conference 2026 was held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (MCEC) on 13 and 14 August 2026.

Under the theme"Healthy Workplaces. Thriving Teachers. Positive Outcomes.", delegates engaged in two days of thought-provoking keynote presentations, practical workshops, applied research sessions, panel discussions and valuable networking opportunities. The Conference focused on creating supportive workplace cultures, enhancing educator wellbeing, embracing inclusive practices and equipping VET professionals with practical strategies to improve outcomes for learners. Conference included:

Inspiring keynote presentations
Expert-led presentations and concurrent workshops
Applied research stream
Skillaroos student panel
Networking function and sector connections

WHAT DELEGATES SAID

"Two inspiring days at VDC 2026. I'm walking away with fresh perspectives, practical strategies and lots of inspiration to bring back into my teaching practice."
"The amount of amazing speakers with a wealth of knowledge and insight that supports the VET industry and educators is vital. VDC brings it all together."
"What a great two days. The keynote speakers were outstanding, the workshops were practical and the conversations with colleagues were invaluable."
"An outstanding conference with so many great presentations and innovative ideas to support educators and learners."
"Great to have genuine student voice featured at the conference. Hearing directly from learners about the impact of VET was a real highlight."

Thank you to our delegates, presenters, sponsors, exhibitors and partners for contributing to the success of the 2026 VET National Teaching & Learning Conference. The enthusiasm, expertise and willingness to share ideas helped create a vibrant learning experience and reinforced the strength of Australia's VET community. We look forward to welcoming you to future VET Development Centre events.

PRESENTATIONS, WORKSHOPS & PANELS

Beyond an exceptional keynote speaker lineup, delegates participated in a diverse range of presentations, workshops, panel discussions and applied research sessions designed to address contemporary challenges and opportunities facing the VET sector. The Conference provided practical, evidence-based tools and strategies that participants could immediately apply within their own organisations and classrooms.

SEE ALL SPEAKERS

Held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre on 13 and 14 August 2026, the VET National Teaching & Learning Conference brought together VET professionals for two inspiring days of learning, collaboration and professional connection.