Submit an abstract to present at the English Australia conference
Dear <<First Name>>
English Australia invites you to be part of the conversation shaping the future of our sector by submitting an abstract to present at the 2026 English Australia Conference in Melbourne on 16-18 September.
Conference theme
This year’s conference theme is Stories of Transformation. We’re looking for presenters to share stories of the life-changing impact of ELICOS, explore emerging models of delivery and innovative approaches, and highlight the vital role our sector plays within Australia’s broader international education landscape. Whether you’ve reimagined classroom practice, introduced new student support initiatives, or led change within your organisation, your story could inspire colleagues across the sector.
We invite you to read our full conference theme here and consider how you might contribute to the conversation.
Presentation Streams
The Program will consist of six different streams:
Presentation Formats
Interested presenters can choose from following five dynamic presentation types:
Standard Talk (30 minutes): Share research, innovation or effective practice in a 25-minute presentation, then answer 5 minutes of audience questions.
Lightning Talk (12 mins): Present a practical idea, case study or showcase best practice in a short session of 12 minutes + 2 minutes question time. These are focused and quick practitioner sessions. Two Lightning Talks will be grouped together into a 30-minute session.
Campfire Talk (30 mins): Much like people sitting around a campfire, this is an informal way to facilitate a discussion around a topic with session attendees. Presenters should outline the session context and focus, and then encourage attendees to set the discussion agenda by raising relevant issues and topics. The discussion is led by the presenter(s), who give a short summary at the end of the session.
Panel Discussion (60 mins): Lead a focused discussion around a specific topic with 3-4 panelists and a facilitator. Panels are structured sessions with a set time for each panelist to present (approximately 8 to 12 minutes), followed by a 15-minute Q&A. Each speaker brings a different perspective or view about the same topic.
Interactive Workshop (60 mins): Engage participants in a hands-on learning experience focused on practical skills, strategies, or approaches that can be applied in professional contexts. Workshops should be highly participatory and provide clear outcomes, offering opportunities for attendees to collaborate, discuss, practice, and/or reflect. NB: In the event of a high volume of workshop proposals, conference organisers may request some authors to present their workshop as a 30-minute talk instead.
The deadline to submit your abstracts is 11:59 PM on Monday 12 May 2026.
For tips to help you get inspired and get started, click below or visit our conference website. English Australia will also run a ‘Tips for Writing an English Australia Conference Abstract’ webinar on 26 March (see details and register below).
We look forward to receiving your abstract to present at the English Australia Conference!
Regards
English Australia and the 2026 Conference program committee
Submission tips and guidelines
Webinar: Tips for writing an English Australia Conference Abstract, presented by Sophie O’Keefe
Thursday 26 March, 3.00pm-3.45pm (AEDT)
Join our abstract information session to learn what the English Australia Conference Program Committee is looking for in a strong conference abstract. Whether you’re submitting for the first time, or a returning presenter, this webinar will provide practical guidance to help strengthen your abstract.
