English Australia Conference 2023 and looking ahead to 2024
Our 2023 Annual English Australia Conference, which took place last month, was an amazing event and reinforced the immense value of being together as a community of professionals. I want to thank all our sponsors, speakers, and attendees for joining us in celebrating our 40th Anniversary. We were spoilt for choice with over 50 Conference sessions over the five streams, along with thought-provoking plenaries. Throughout the conference, we’ve had the privilege of releasing a collection of videos from 40 individuals from across the sector who share their personal experiences in ELICOS, specifically with English Australia, to create a rich tapestry of 40 Voices. I would like to extend my thanks to the countless individuals who have contributed to the growth and success of English Australia over the past 40 years. The Gala dinner was a highlight as we celebrated our 40th Anniversary in style, capped off with the presentation of two deserving life members (Marc Weedon-Newstead, and Helen Zimmerman). I also want to acknowledge all our English Australia annual award winners who can be seen here.
Looking ahead with great excitement, we are thrilled to announce that our 2024 English Australia Conference is scheduled to be held in Perth at the Pan Pacific from September 11 to 13. Our conference aligns with the ST Alphe Conference, which will be hosted in Perth from September 8 to 10, 2024, providing an exceptional opportunity for those interested in attending both events. Study Travel is offering a huge 20% event discount for English Australia members, with first time attendees receiving an additional 5% reduction. Please let us know if you would like further information.
40th Memorabilia booklet
We proudly released our 40th Anniversary Memorabilia booklet at the Gala dinner. This booklet highlights some of the major achievements of the association over the past 40 years, with photographs, and cherished memories that have shaped our journey. We are posting a copy of the booklet to each of our members as a keepsake. Please keep an eye out for your copy arriving soon. You can also view a copy online here.
Advocacy Update
This month, I attended the Education Visa Consultative Committee (EVCC) meeting hosted by the Department of Home Affairs. updates on Visa statistics, the English Policy review, SSVF Evidence Levels, and the TIEP Financial capacity instrument change. We were also joined by the new Assistant Secretary leading the Migration Reform Taskforce. I raised concerns from members related to the application of risk from Protection visas under the SSVF (framework), and some concerning trends, namely regarding the high volume of rejections from Thailand. Unfortunately, it appears that the risk setting in the SSVF will not be adjusted, despite the introduction of the new Genuine Student criteria that will replace the Genuine Temporary Entrant criteria. English Australia is represented by our Deputy Chair Ian Aird, on the working group that is considering the new Genuine Student criteria.
It was good to be able to announce the end of the Pandemic Activity 408 visa at our conference. DHA is also exploring some options on the application of Recommendation 30 from the Migration Review that would allow International Foundation Program students to continue to have admission on an IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent), given the characteristics and standards of those courses.
Austrade – Latam
English Australia members recently participated in our first Market Spotlight Briefing on market development opportunities for ELICOS providers in LATAM, which provided excellent insights into the local markets and key areas for growth. A special thanks to the Austrade presenters, Craig Ford, Trade & Investment Commissioner, Mexico, Central America & The Caribbean, and regional Education Business Development Directors Laura Diaz (Mexico), Camilo Pena (Colombia), Jorge Lopez (Peru), Scott Bennet (Chile), Patricia Monteiro (Brazil), Stephanie Oliveira (Brazil), and Sebastian Rendina (Argentina).
Duolingo Professional Development Workshops
In case you missed it, English Australia is partnering with Duolingo to present professional development workshops on ‘AI and the New Era of Language Assessment’ in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. The workshops will be presented by Basim Baig, Head of Security for the Duolingo English Test, and Dr Masha Kostromitina, Assessment Specialist who are out from the US. The workshops are complimentary for English Australia members. Limited places are still available. Interested in securing your spot? Find out more and register here.
English Australia Journal – New Edition
Have you had a chance to explore the latest edition of the English Australia Journal (Volume 39.02)? I am pleased to say that we have just posted the journal to member colleges. If you haven’t received your copy, please reach out. A special thanks to our Journal Editor and team, along with the contributors who have delivered a high-quality, thought-leading publication.
State/Territory Board Nominations
A reminder that nominations for State/Territory Board Delegates for ACT/NT/Tas, Queensland, South Australia, and New South Wales (casual vacancy, one-year term) will close tomorrow at 5:00 pm (AEST) on Friday, September 29. If you have any queries or require assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Access the nomination form here.
AGM Reminder
Lastly, a friendly reminder that our Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be conducted in hybrid mode on Thursday, October 19, from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm (AEDT). Prior to the AGM, our usual Branch meetings will take place for those who can attend in person, please contact your local State/ Territory delegate for details.
We will be contacting each of our members to confirm your attendance and/or nominated representative (proxy), as we require the majority of members to attend this meeting.
Acknowledging our Members Accolades
I’d like to extend my congratulations to the English Australia members who have recently received recognition in the UK.
At the Star Awards, Inforum Education Australia was recognised as the ST Star English Language School in the Southern Hemisphere. Additionally, ILSC Education Group/ELS was awarded the Star Chain School.
The PIEoneer Awards saw Kaplan Business School taking home the title of Business School of the Year, while our Corporate Affiliate member, Successful Graduate, was named the winner in the Digital Innovation of the Year – Student Recruitment category.
Well done to all the winners, as well as those who received highly commended acknowledgments, in what was another highly competitive group of finalists.
Please feel free to contact me with any concerns or questions. I am always keen to hear from our community.
