Speak at AITD Conference 2027
Share your work. Influence the profession.
Where
Hotel Realm, Canberra
EOIs close
Wednesday 25 November 2026
Open to
Every sector, members and non-members
Expressions of Interest are open for practitioners, leaders, consultants, researchers and emerging voices who have something valuable to share with Australia’s Learning and Development profession.
If you have led an initiative, tested a new approach, built a practical solution or found an insight that could help others work more effectively, we would love to see your application. You do not need to be a professional speaker or an AITD member to apply.
Selected speakers will join five confirmed keynotes in Canberra

JD Dillon

Dr Amantha Imber

Michael Milton OAM

Dr Louise Mahler

Sarah Rowan
Conference themes
Proposals should connect with one or more of the four themes.
The human edge
The human capabilities that matter even more as technology advances, including facilitation, influence, leadership, learning culture and human-centred design.
The tech advantage
The effective and responsible use of AI and learning technology, including the redesign of systems, roles and learning experiences and meaningful evaluation of what works.
Strategic influence
How L&D can align with organisational priorities, demonstrate value, influence decision-making and strengthen its contribution at the business level.
Emerging trends and future directions
New and emerging developments shaping the future of L&D.
Your proposal should also name the area of the AITD L&D Capability Framework it relates to most closely.
Who we want to hear from
The conference brings together L&D professionals from every industry. Established experts, experienced practitioners and compelling new voices are all welcome.
CorporateGovernmentHigher educationVocational educationNot-for-profitConsulting
Session formats
Practical case studies
What you faced, what you did and what changed.
Concurrent presentations
45-minute sessions across four streams.
Interactive workshops
Hands-on sessions where delegates practise and build.
Panel discussions
Several perspectives on one question.
Ideas in 8
Short, sharp talks that land one idea.
Research and evidence
Findings the profession can put to use.
What makes a strong proposal
The strongest sessions go beyond broad inspiration and give people ideas, approaches and insights they can apply. Tell us the challenge, why it mattered, what you did, the results and what others can take from it.
Relevance
An important current or emerging issue for the profession.
Practical value
Delegates leave with insights, approaches, tools or examples.
Evidence and authenticity
Grounded in real experience, credible research or measurable outcomes.
Clear learning outcomes
What participants will understand or be able to do afterwards.
Audience engagement
Designed to involve, challenge and connect with people.
A compelling story
Challenge, approach, action and outcome.
Apply to speak at AITD 2027
How it works
1
Prepare
A session title, short summary, outline, learning outcomes and your bio.
2
Apply by 25 November
Submit your EOI through the conference website.
3
Assessment
AITD assesses every EOI against the criteria and the balance of the program.
4
Outcome
All applicants are advised. Selected speakers confirm and receive presenter guidelines.
Good to know
Educational, not commercial
Sessions provide professional learning. Case studies involving products or providers are welcome when they are balanced and focused on lessons for delegates. Proposals that are mainly promotional are not accepted. Sponsorship and exhibition options are available separately.
Presenter arrangements
Presenting is a voluntary contribution to the profession. Selected presenters receive complimentary registration for the day or days they present, and cover their own travel and accommodation.
Program balance
Selection also depends on a balance of topics, sectors, formats and perspectives, so a strong proposal may not be selected where several cover similar ground.
EOIs close Wednesday 25 NovemberYour experience could be the example, evidence or fresh perspective that helps someone else approach their work differently.Apply to speak
Questions? Contact us or call +61 (0)2 9211 9414.