With just four weeks to go, excitement is building for the VET National Teaching & Learning Conference 2026, taking place in person at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on 13–14 August 2026. This year’s theme, Healthy Workplaces – Thriving Teachers – Positive Outcomes, will bring together VET practitioners, leaders and sector professionals from across Australia for two days of learning, inspiration and connection.
At the heart of this year’s Conference is an exceptional line-up of keynote speakers, each bringing a unique perspective on wellbeing, leadership, innovation and future-focused learning.
Noddy Sharma – Culture that Inspires
Recognised for his work in guiding organisations and individuals towards a more purposeful future, Noddy Sharma will open minds and challenge thinking with his keynote, Culture that Inspires. Focusing on leadership, workplace culture and human potential, Noddy will explore what it takes to create environments where people feel connected, motivated and empowered to succeed. His insights align strongly with the conference theme, offering practical inspiration for leaders looking to foster healthy and high-performing learning environments.
Dr Lila Landowski – Popcorn Brain in Today’s World: Attention, Anxiety & Agency in the Age of Social Media & AI
Multi-award-winning neuroscientist Dr Lila Landowski will tackle one of the most pressing challenges facing educators and learners today. Drawing on neuroscience and contemporary research, Lila will explore how constant digital stimulation impacts attention, wellbeing and learning. Delegates will gain a deeper understanding of how social media and artificial intelligence are shaping behaviour, while discovering practical approaches to help learners reclaim focus, agency and meaningful engagement.
Mel Neil – A Flourishing Workplace
As a leading expert in the practical application of human flourishing, Mel Neil is passionate about translating research into meaningful workplace practice. Her keynote will examine how organisations can create environments where wellbeing, resilience and performance thrive together. With teacher wellbeing a key focus of this year’s conference theme, Mel’s session will provide practical strategies that support sustainable success for both individuals and organisations in the VET sector.
Daniel Joinbee – Found in Space: Lifting Indigenous Horizons Through Aerospace Education
Daniel Joinbee is an Australian Defence Force Veteran, accomplished business leader and Indigenous business founder whose work is transforming opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. His keynote explores the power of co-designed and flexible career pathways, using aerospace education as a catalyst for aspiration, engagement and workforce participation. Delegates will gain valuable insights into how innovative partnerships and culturally responsive approaches can open new horizons for learners and strengthen pathways into future industries.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Event
Beyond the keynote presentations, the Conference offers a rich program of expert presentations, concurrent workshops, panel discussions, networking opportunities and a dedicated applied research stream. Designed specifically for today’s VET environment, the program will equip teachers, trainers and sector professionals with practical strategies to strengthen teaching practice, enhance learner outcomes and build thriving workplaces.
Whether you’re looking to improve educator wellbeing, strengthen workplace culture, embrace innovation or better support diverse learners, the VET National Teaching & Learning Conference 2026 promises practical insights you can immediately apply in your organisation.
Secure Your Place Today
Tickets are selling fast and places are limited. Join colleagues from across the country for Australia’s leading teaching and learning event for the VET sector.
Register now and be part of two energising days focused on Healthy Workplaces – Thriving Teachers – Positive Outcomes.
VDC would like to thank this year’s Conference Sponsor
