AIEC 2026 celebrates 40 years with 1,750 delegates

1,750 delegates came together for AIEC 2026, as the international education community gathered to connect, share ideas and celebrate an incredible milestone: 40 years of AIEC.

Under the theme Future Thinking, this year’s conference looked ahead to the ideas, challenges and opportunities shaping the next chapter of international education. Across the conference, delegates heard from sector leaders and changemakers, explored the big issues influencing our future, and made connections with colleagues from across Australia and around the world.

But AIEC 2026 was also a chance to look back. Our 40th anniversary celebrated four decades of conversations, connections, collaboration and progress, recognising the people who have helped shape AIEC and the international education sector along the way.

Thank you to the 1,750 delegates, speakers, sponsors, partners and exhibitors who helped make this milestone conference one to remember.

Explore the highlights and relive AIEC 2026 in our photo gallery.