ABDC 2026 Conference

RMIT University | 23 and 24 November 2026

Navigating Uncertain Horizons

In an increasingly dynamic and uncertain higher education landscape, it is more important than ever to position business schools as a key player in addressing productivity and resilience challenges.

Across two days, this conference promises connection with senior leaders in Australian and New Zealand business schools, and impactful conversations with sector and industry experts.

Registrations open in May, with early bird rates available.

Conference program

Day 1: RMIT University, Storey Hall

10am Conference open

11am VC panel

Professor Helen Bartlett, Vice-Chancellor and President, University of the Sunshine Coast
Professor Giselle Byrnes, Provost, Massey University
Professor Alec Cameron, Vice-Chancellor and President, RMIT University
Professor Colm Harmon, Provost and Vice President, Edith Cowan University

12pm Lunch

1pm Keynote 1

Professor Andrew Norton, Monash University

2pm Session 1

Dr Ben Hamer, Sociologist and Futurist

3pm Afternoon tea

3.30pm Session 2

Dr Lynda Folan, Founder and Managing Director, Inspired Development Solutions

4.30pm Session 3

Andrew Crisp, Founder, Carrington Crisp

5.30pm Day 1 close

5.30pm Conference dinner and Network Awards announcement

Day 2: RMIT University, Storey Hall

8.50am Conference Day 2 open

9am Keynote 2

10am Concurrent sessions 1

Session 1A: Academic Integrity

Herk Kailis, CEO and Founder, Cadmus
Dr Trudy Bates, Lecturer, Edith Cowan School of Business and Law
Dr Shahab Pourfakhimi, Associate Dean Teaching & Learning, University of the Sunshine Coast

Session 1B: AACSB Global Standards

Lily Bi, President and CEO of AACSB International
Geoff Perry, Executive Vice President and Chief Membership Officer and Managing Director, Asia Pacific, at AACSB International

Session 1C: Research

11am Morning tea

11.30am Concurrent sessions 2

Session 2A: Professional Management

Session 2B: International Education

Jon Chew, Chief Insights Officer, Navitas
Professor Mark Loon, Dean of the School of Business and Creative Industries, University of the Sunshine Coast

Session 2C: To be announced

12.30pm Lunch

1.30pm Industry panel

3pm Conference close