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As a Member you get access to over 20 hours of additional recorded webinar content.
Presenters
#2026NVCAngela McGregor
Owner and Principal Consultant, RTO Consulting
Angela McGregor is the owner and principal consultant of RTO Consulting who has been offering consulting services throughout Australia, providing guidance, coaching and assistance to businesses wanting to become a RTO, existing RTOs and businesses wanting to develop nationally accredited courses and those looking to establish systems and processes to ensure compliance.
As a practitioner dedicated to sharing knowledge, Angela has consulted through many forums pertaining to compliance issues and improvement strategies for training and assessment services. Angela is known for her current industry, knowledge and success in developing accredited courses and track record in setting up RTOs and assisting RTOs with compliance against the VET Quality Framework.
Angela McGregor and Peter Doukas
About Angela:
Angela McGregor is the owner and principal consultant of RTO Consulting who has been offering consulting services throughout Australia, providing guidance, coaching and assistance to businesses wanting to become a RTO, existing RTOs and businesses wanting to develop nationally accredited courses and those looking to establish systems and processes to ensure compliance.
As a practitioner dedicated to sharing knowledge, Angela has consulted through many forums pertaining to compliance issues and improvement strategies for training and assessment services. Angela is known for her current industry, knowledge and success in developing accredited courses and track record in setting up RTOs and assisting RTOs with compliance against the VET Quality Framework.
LinkedIn
About Peter:
Peter owns and operates the education law firm Denison Toyer. Working in the field of Education Law and Corporate Governance since 2007 Peter has acted for over one hundred Registered Training Organisations and Higher Education Providers in various stages of the education management cycle. He routinely acts for colleges in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal and provides extensive advice to RTO Management, Higher Education providers, Educational Conglomerates and Universities. His professional practice also includes providing legal and governance advice to listed and unlisted company boards. He has acted in some of the largest cases involving ASQA in the AAT.
Peter is also active in the multicultural space and acts as a volunteer director on various boards. He is the current chair of the Ethnic Communities’ Council of NSW. He also works providing pro-bono legal assistance to new and emerging communities, particularly in the establishment of associations and governance structures within NSW. In Australia Day 2020, Peter was awarded Honour of Member of the Order of Australia for services to Multiculturalism.
LinkedIn
Angie Ford
Executive Coach, www.angieford.com.au
Angie Ford is a world-class executive coach and mindset trainer driven by a love of working with people. She stands for high performance without burnout.
Her client list includes CEOs, CFOs, auditors general, world no.1 athletes, AFI award nominated actors and Entrepreneurs of the Year. She is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach® via the Coaches Training Institute with 6000hrs experience.
Angie loves working with leaders and teams who believe in growth and learning. She believes self-confidence is something we all deserve to feel. Her belief in the importance of mindset training originates from her own sporting background as a national gold-medal swimmer and witnessing the dysfunctional effects of bullying while growing up. Her professional background spans the public and private sectors, academia, and STEM where she taught statistics at the Australian National University.
Angie’s ability to listen and support, while challenging clients to expand their own self-belief, make her a sought-after coach and speaker.
Catherine Hodgson
Founder, Clued In Education
Catherine is the founder of Clued In Education and has more than 17 years of experience across education, training, quality assurance, and RTO leadership.
Catherine specialises in helping RTOs move beyond compliance-controlled activity towards quality-driven practices that are visible in the everyday learner experience. Her work focuses on translating the intent of the 2025 Standards for RTOs into practical, sustainable systems that strengthen training, assessment, learner support, workforce capability, and organisational oversight.
Drawing on her background in senior leadership within a CRICOS-registered RTO, experience in enterprise risk management, and extensive teaching experience, Catherine delivers professional development that is practical, reflective, and grounded in real-world VET contexts.
Catherine works with RTO leaders, training staff, and quality teams across Australia to strengthen capability, improve practice, and create learning environments that are learner-centred, inclusive, and outcomes-focused.
Chemène Sinson
Principal, Chemène Sinson - learning advisory
Chemène is a freelance learning and performance specialist who helps individuals and organisations design, develop and deliver learning and assessment experiences that lead to improved performance.
She draws on her diverse experiences as an elite athlete and coach, school teacher, writer, facilitator and presenter, to mentor and support experienced facilitators and assessors with their ongoing development. In VET, Chemène specialises in TAE and has written TAE resources used by more than 150 organisations to date. She is a regular speaker at conferences and special events.
Coleen Rivas
Managing Director, Raspberry Training
Coleen has had 20 years of experience in the VET sector with expertise in RTO management, compliance and resource development. She has owned and managed various RTOs and is an experienced instructional designer and VET professional.
Coleen is passionate about quality vocational education and the delivery of best practice competency assessment.
Dan Smee
Program Change Manager, Department of Employment and Workplace Relations
With over 15 years steering complex change across major government initiatives, and the last 4 years dedicated to digital transformation in the VET sector at the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, Dan brings a wealth of experience and a refreshingly human approach to change management.
Dan doesn’t believe in rigid frameworks. Instead, he champions outcome-focused delivery, applying principles that prioritise the experience of those impacted by change. His approach has powered successful projects like the Apprenticeships Data Management System, and more recently, the VET Data Streamlining and VET Data Reform Blueprint and Investment Roadmap initiatives under the National Skills Agreement.
A strategic leader and passionate advocate for user-centred design, Dan thrives on solving delivery challenges with empathy and innovation. He’s at his best when chatting with stakeholders, uncovering smarter ways to embed new systems and processes into everyday work.
Whether you're navigating transformation or just curious about what great change looks like, Dan’s insights will leave you well informed—and maybe even excited about change.
Dr Dan Hill
Director, SpecTraining, Certified Learning Institute, and Institute for Learning and Performance
With over 18 years of experience as a director and co-founder of SpecTraining, Dan's interests include business investment and diversification. He is a passionate and committed leader in the areas of professional development, vocational education and training, workplace communication, and business strategy.
He has a Master of Business Administration from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) along with various vocational qualifications. He has authored and co-authored several textbooks, publications, and podcasts on vocational training and assessment, business communication, and leadership.
SpecTraining, delivers accredited trainer and assessor & leadership training across Australia and internationally.
His professional mission is to improve the standard of vocational training and assessment across Australia and the Asia Pacific. This expands to all forms of workplace training, learning and development, and higher education practices.
Dr Deniese Cox
Director, TeachingOnline.com.au
Dr Deniese Cox is widely regarded as Australia's leading authority on adult online education. Plenty of presenters refer to research. What makes Deniese different is that the research is her own, conducted inside the Australian VET system rather than borrowed from another sector or another country.
She is the only professional development provider whose strategies have been rigorously investigated at scale, across large learner groups and a wide range of contexts. That investment is why her sessions land. Every strategy has been shown to lift engagement and completions with today’s adult learners before it ever reaches you.
Translating that research into PD is how Deniese supports thousands of educators a year, and they report the same thing again and again: more engaged learners and stronger outcomes. Her real gift is cutting through the noise to share practical techniques you can put to work the moment you walk out.
Little wonder she is consistently one of our highest rated presenters every year. Engaging, evidence-based, and grounded in the realities of Australian adult education, Deniese sends you home with strategies that work.
Dr Shae Wissell
Director, re:think dyslexia
Dr Shae Wissell is a speech pathologist and public health researcher, and the Director of re:think dyslexia, a neurodivergent‑led national social enterprise. She is neurodivergent herself, with lived experience of dyslexia, dysgraphia and ADHD, which directly informs her work across the VET, employment, justice and health sectors. Her work includes large‑scale projects with government, Registered Training Organisations, employers and correctional settings, and is grounded in evidence‑based practice that combines lived experience with clinical expertise.
Shae works with some of the most vulnerable people in our community to improve access, participation and outcomes through evidence‑based tools and strategies that support literacy, learning and work, rather than traditional remediation approaches. She leads the design and delivery of neuroaffirming training, workforce development initiatives, technology‑enabled supports and system‑level programs, including JobAccess and workplace support, with a strong focus on psychosocial safety, inclusion and practical implementation.
Shae is a leading author in the field of adult dyslexia with her book Dyslexia: Insights into the hidden disability in and out of the workplace an Amazon #1 best seller, a published researcher, and the host of the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, where lived experience, research and practice come together. An internationally and nationally recognised award winner, her work brings together clinical expertise, applied research and service innovation to translate evidence and lived experience into practical, scalable tools that support neurodivergent learners to succeed in education, training and work.
Jillian West
Founder - Nomuckerlener Indigenous Consulting and Mentoring
Jillian is a proud Bunurong woman from Point Nepean and Palawa from the islands of Bass Strait with a lengthy career supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in work, education and their life journey.
She has worked extensively in the Centrelink space for 13 years and strongly committed to working alongside community organisations, developing partnerships, and building cultural capacity. Her work helps to give Aboriginal people a voice through mentoring employment and education with the aim of closing the gap.
Jillian is a Mother, an Aunty, a Grandmother, a Sister and a Daughter. However more than anything, she is a proud Aboriginal woman. Her work allows her to see Aboriginal people succeed in employment and education so the world can see just how amazing they are and how living in two worlds can be achieved. The best journey we can have is the journey of our self within culture.
John Blake
Director of Online Learning, Eastern College Australia
John Blake has 21+ years of industry experience teaching in Hospitality, Sustainability, EAL, Foundation Skills, and Training & Education.
Having designed learning programs and resources for use in more than a dozen countries, John is passionate about the opportunity to inspire teachers and trainers to excel and encourage learners in shaping the future workforce.
Working for industry stakeholders, schools, TAFEs, private RTOs, and universities across 20 countries, John enjoys re-inventing vocational education and brings theory alive through creative delivery approaches and contextualised assessments to support, engage and enable learners from all walks of life.
John Price and Mark Croft
Consultant, John Price & Associates | Director, Quality and Compliance at TAFE SA
About John Price:
John Price has been an educator and trainer for over 40 years and in that time has worked as a Head of Department at TAFE, mentor, facilitator of national workshops covering delivery and assessment, risk management, auditing, leadership and interpersonal skill development.
John has been a keynote speaker at conventions and conferences, and maintained a grass roots level approach to dealing with people at all levels of the organisation.
He has also assisted over 300 organisations in Australia to achieve quality certification to the range of National Training Standards including: Standards for NVR Registered Training Organisations (versions 2012 and 2015); Australian Quality Training Framework standards (AQTF from 2001 – 2010) Australian and International ISO9001 standards (AS/NZS and ISO from 1987 – 2008) and worked with these organisations in establishing continuous improvement systems and strategies.
LinkedIn
About Mark Croft:
Mark Croft is the Director, Quality and Compliance at TAFE SA and has held this role, and preceding iterations, since April 2018. He has responsibility for VET compliance, self-assurance and course accreditation, Higher Education academic governance, AVETMISS compliance and reporting, Commonwealth Student Loans compliance and reporting, and issuance of AQF certification.
Mark has been at TAFE SA for 25 years and has been involved in the quality and compliance function for 21 years. He has coordinated multiple RTO re-registrations, experienced multiple regulator audits and has led off-shore audits of transnational agreements. He recently led TAFE SA’s re-registration as an Institute of Higher Education with the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) for the maximum 7 years. He is a member of the ASQA Stakeholder Liaison Group, and has been a member of the TDA Quality, Regulation and Compliance (QRC) Policy Network since its inception and was Chair of this Network from June 2022 to June 2024.
LinkedIn
Josh Michel
Partnership Manager, The University of Sydney
I am a chef by trade and with close 30 years experience in some of Sydney's and London's finest restaurants.
I still work in the hospitality industry and strongly believe in the importance of maintaining currency with a trade that I love. Throughout my career, I have also been an education manager and was Head of William Angliss Institutes NSW campus for 5 years.
Recently, I have moved into disability services and continue to support young adults with a disability succeed in a variety of industries through ongoing workplace support and mentoring programs.
At this years conference, my unique mix of storytelling and thinking outside of the box will provide another engaging session, full of tips and techniques which will continue to support the growth and success of our amazing VET system.
Julian Davis
Digital Learning Engineer, The Digital Learning Guy
Julian Davis is a Digital Learning Engineer with more than 20 years’ experience in digital learning environments. His work focuses on learning data, assessment evidence and interoperable learning systems.
Julian works at the intersection of digital learning design, assessment governance and emerging technologies such as AI and open data standards. He specialises in improving how organisations capture, structure and use learning and assessment data so that competence can be demonstrated clearly, consistently and defensibly.
He has designed digital assessment workflows and evidence capture systems that support validation, moderation and audit confidence across complex learning environments.
Julian is a co-founder of the xAPI Collective, an Australian community of practice exploring how open data standards can support more connected and interoperable learning ecosystems as well as raising awareness of the standard.
His work explores how structured evidence design and open data standards such as xAPI can strengthen assessment integrity while preparing organisations for an increasingly connected and AI-aware future.
Julie Armstrong
Founder and owner of Education Is Key
Julie Armstrong is a nationally recognised leader in VET education, bringing extensive industry experience together with deep educational expertise. After transitioning from industry into teaching, Julie committed to elevating food and health education through industry-informed, engaging learning experiences that prioritise student outcomes, wellbeing and real-world relevance. Her work consistently bridges the gap between contemporary industry expectations and effective classroom practice.
In 2017, Julie founded Education Is Key in response to widespread demand from teachers seeking clarity, confidence and consistency in curriculum interpretation, study design and assessment. Since then, Education Is Key has grown into a leading education consultancy, supporting secondary schools through high-impact professional learning, curriculum-aligned resources and accredited training across food studies, VET and health-related subjects.
Julie is a sought-after presenter who regularly delivers and hosts conferences across Western Australia, Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales. She is known for her dynamic, practical presentations that resonate strongly with secondary educators, addressing innovative engagement strategies, effective delivery models, compliance requirements and best practice in school-based VET delivery. In 2024, Education Is Key became a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). Together with Quality Service Skills (QSS) RTO they auspice her specifically developed programs, supporting schools nationwide to deliver compliant, high-quality VET programs with confidence and impact.
Julie Healy
Principal Consultant, Quality Skills and Training
Julie is an experienced, highly motivated and accomplished senior educational leader offering over 28 years of experience in Vocational Education and Training.
She provides strategic advice and leadership to internal and external stakeholders around policy, innovation, quality teaching and assessment, student engagement and retention, educator capability and workforce development.
Julie Van Belkom and Marilyn Connell
Founder / Principal Consultant, Harlow Education | Manager, Workforce Innovation, AUSMASA
About Julie:
Julie van Belkom is a highly experienced leader in education management, RTO compliance, governance, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). With over 20 years in the education sector, Julie has held pivotal roles at reputable institutions, honing expertise in operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and inclusive leadership. A strong advocate for equity in education, Julie has played a key role in embedding DEI principles into training frameworks, governance structures, and organisational culture, ensuring that education providers create inclusive and accessible learning environments for all students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.
Julie’s strategic mindset, ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, and talent for motivating and inspiring teams have contributed to sustained organisational success. With a deep understanding of policy, risk, and compliance in education, Julie continues to drive transformative change, fostering learning environments that prioritise diversity, accessibility, and equity while maintaining the highest standards of regulatory adherence and governance.
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About Marilyn:
Marilyn Connell is Manager, Workforce Innovation for the Jobs and Skills Council representing the Mining and Automotive sectors. Marilyn is a dedicated VET sector leader with over 14 years of experience in academic quality, compliance, innovation, and instructional intelligence. As a Principal Lecturer and Portfolio Manager, she has led major initiatives in Heavy Automotive and Applied Engineering training, driving excellence in workforce development.
Marilyn has studied Adult Education, holds an MBA, and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Passionate about the transformative impact of vocational education, Marilyn continues to champion innovation and quality across Australia's training and workforce landscape.
LinkedIn
Kamal Sarma
Founder and Director, Rezilium
There are not too many people who have made the journey from monk to venture capitalist, but Kamal Sarma's extraordinary path has given him unique insights into both Eastern philosophy and business excellence.
As founder and director of Rezilium, a strategic leadership firm, Kamal transforms people and organisations by bridging ancient Eastern wisdom with modern demands. His seven years of monastic training, combined with venture capital and executive roles at McKinsey & Company, Eli Lilly, StGeorge Bank, and AMP Capital Investors, give him an unparalleled perspective on cultivating resilience and clarity in today's fast-paced world.
Known for his ability to catalyse breakthrough performance, Kamal has spent two decades helping global teams navigate complexity with customised frameworks that deliver measurable results. His approach has resonated across industries, earning him recognition as both a thought leader and practical strategist.
Kamal's wisdom is captured in his three acclaimed books: the international bestseller Mental Resilience: The Power of Clarity, THE LEADERSHIP LEAP, featured on Google Talks, and Win-Win Conversations: The Art and Science of Human Connection. As a serial entrepreneur, he has co-founded two successful venture capital firms in the IT and biotech sectors, demonstrating his ability to transform visionary ideas into reality.
Currently serving as Chair of the RUOK? Conversations Board, Kamal also serves on the Board of MindUP Australia and The Fathering Project.
Kamal's rare combination of a holistic approach, business acumen, and social commitment makes him a compelling voice for transformation in both organisational leadership and social impact.
Kay Schlesinger
Director, Kgedconsulting
Kay Schlesinger is an education consultant and instructional coach with 40+ years cross‑sector experience in VET, Higher Education, Primary and Secondary Schools, VDSS and Industry.
Kay has presented to VELG, VDC, AVETRA, TAFE Directors, Australian Council of Deans, the Senior Secondary Pathways Reform Taskforce, The Victorian Skills Authority, Department of Education, over 18 TAFES, Higher Education organisations, schools and varied Industry contexts.
In 2020 Kay was awarded an International Specialised Skills Institute fellowship by the Department of Education and Training for her impactful and innovative work with new educators She has also led design, implementation and review across five versions of the TAE Training Package and advised the Department of Education on educator qualifications and professional learning.
Kay works continually to actively engage educators and leaders by modelling exemplary practice and using innovative teaching and learning strategies that can easily be adapted and ultimately transform learners’ experiences. Her work bridges research and practice to improve outcomes for learners and the organisations that serve them.
Kerri Neven and Sarah Phillips
Education Designer, Digital Developer and Managing Director, Pop Education
About Kerri:
Kerri Neven is a digital developer, education designer, UX/UI and graphic designer at Pop Education. She has amassed 27 years of experience as a multi-award-winning educator, leading both teachers and students through evolving digital landscapes. Coming from a family of coders her first post grad study in 1998 focussed on computers in education and concreted the foundations for her interest in the relationship between humans and technology.
Since OpenAI hit the world she has supported numerous teams and organisations in the adoption and exploitation of ChatGPT, encouraging the construction of critical and creative mindsets. Always an explorer and early adopter, she is fascinated with the philosophies both behind and in front of AI, and focuses on best practice in utilising technology, keeping humans at the heart of education.
LinkedIn
About Sarah:
Sarah is a leading expert in Vocational Education and Training (VET) with 20 years of experience, including 19 years dedicated to eLearning, digital education, and online assessment. As Managing Director of Pop Education, she specialises in innovative learning design, compliance, and AI-powered simulations for practitioner training. Sarah has worked with a range of clients including TAFE, higher education, secondary education, private, industry and community training organisations. She has also led several governments sponsored projects to develop resources to statewide distribution.
Sarah continues to drive advancements in online learning, digital accessibility, and immersive education through cutting-edge technology and pedagogical design, and her passion for quality education has led her to see possibilities that AI can bring to learners, always looking for the next way to improve student learning and assessment experiences.
LinkedIn
Leigh Dwyer
Curriculum & Assessment Leader, William Angliss Institute
Leigh is PhD candidate at James Cook University investigating how GenAI might enhance the development of vocational curriculum resources and career pathways throughout Australia. Initially awarded a VET Practitioner Fellowship through the International Specialised Skills Institute, he spent a year travelling and researching how to effectively use AI for developing high-quality curriculum resources in VET contexts.
He works full-time as Curriculum & Assessment Leader at William Angliss Institute and teaches (part-time) aspiring ESL teachers in the Certificate IV in TESOL at Bendigo Kangan Institute while also serving as board secretary of Kew Neighbourhood Learning Centre.
He learns about AI by trying lots of new AI tools, picking up tips and tricks from colleagues, students, and friends, engaging in professional conversations, doing formal study, and watching lots of YouTube tutorials!
Leslie Young & Dr Manju Krishnan Vijayakumaran
Project Manager - VET Workforce, and Industry Researcher - Industry Skills Australia
About Leslie:
With over 13 years of experience in vocational education and training, Leslie Young is a recognised VET specialist with expertise in workforce development, project management, compliance, and regulation. Having worked across private and enterprise RTOs and in regulatory leadership roles with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA).
As Project Manager - VET Workforce, Leslie has developed a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector. and is leading initiatives to build a skilled, resilient, and future-ready VET workforce for the transport and supply chain industries.
About Dr Manju:
Dr Manju Krishnan Vijayakumaran is an industry researcher, evaluator, and workforce development expert who is passionate about using evidence to drive better decisions and outcomes. With a background spanning program evaluation, workforce planning, skills research, and stakeholder engagement, she brings a practical and strategic perspective to understanding workforce and training challenges.
Her work has focused on identifying skills gaps, evaluating workforce initiatives, and generating industry intelligence that informs policy, strategy, and workforce development programs. Drawing on extensive experience in qualitative and mixed method research, she seeks to uncover not only what works, why it works, but also how programs and policies can be improved to deliver greater impact.
Manju has particular interest in the future of work, skills ecosystems, workforce capability, and creating stronger connections between industry, training, and employment to support sustainable workforce growth
Marc Ratcliffe
CEO, MRWED Training and Assessment
Marc Ratcliffe is a globally recognised leader in vocational education, renowned for his dynamic approach to training. As CEO and founder of MRWED Training and Assessment, he has dedicated over 30 years to enhancing trainer capability.
A passionate advocate for "edu-tainment," Marc blends engagement with expertise, making learning both impactful and enjoyable. With extensive international experience, he continues to shape the future of training through innovation and best practice.
Mark Costello
Managing Director, Asset College
Mark Costello is the Managing Director of Asset College and has worked in the Australian VET sector for more than 20 years, with extensive experience in RTO leadership, quality systems, training operations and strategic growth. He is committed to building high-performing organisations and developing teams that support lifelong learning, strong workplace capability, and meaningful outcomes for learners and industry.
Mark has led Asset College’s evolution into an industry-leading RTO for security education in a highly competitive market, with a focus on innovation, practical learning and employer engagement. His work centres on helping organisations move beyond compliance-driven thinking to build clear strategies, mature governance, and a quality culture that strengthens credibility and sustainability.
He is a regular contributor to industry reforms and participates in training package advisory groups, supporting the continuous improvement of qualifications and the alignment of vocational education with workforce needs. Mark has also developed, and supported the development of, multiple accredited courses designed to address industry skills gaps and strengthen workforce capability, ensuring training remains relevant to evolving operational and community expectations.
Melanie Alexandra
Vocational Education Advisor / VET Consultant, VETExcel
Melanie Alexandra is a senior vocational education specialist with extensive experience spanning school based education, regulation, and system level VET governance. She began her career as a secondary school teacher, spending 15 years delivering both academic and vocational education to senior students.
Melanie has since worked as a regulatory auditor, conducting hundreds of audits and registrations against the legislated VET Quality Framework and as a VET specialist consultant under her own consultancy supporting Registered Training Organisations and schools to strengthen compliance, quality assurance, and delivery practice.
Melanie now works with Independent Schools Queensland, where she provides strategic advice and operational support to those delivering VET in Schools. She also works as a VET Consultant in her own right focussing on partnership models, governance, audit ready practice, and sustainable, high-quality VET delivery in complex school-based environments.
Melinda Cox
Director of Policy and Education - ASQA
Melinda is ASQA’s Director of Policy and Education. She joined ASQA in 2023, continuing a 26 year career in the employment and training services sectors.
Melinda’s team is responsible for working with policy agencies, Registered Training Organisations and key stakeholders to ensure the regulatory policy settings in vocational education and training (VET) sector are fit-for-purpose and outcome-focussed. Her team also provides educative resources to the sector to uplift quality and compliance, and to support providers in striving for continuous improvement and innovation.
Melissa Huikeshoven
Lecturer, TAFE SA
Mel is a passionate IT educator with over 13 years of experience in making technical learning engaging and impactful. Holding a Bachelor of Computer and Information Science, Diploma in Vocational Education and Training, and a Graduate Diploma in Education Studies (Digital Learning). She specialises in innovative teaching strategies that enhance student motivation and participation using the abilities/skills within us as educators rather than over-relying on technology.
Drawing inspiration from vocal communication techniques commonly used outside of the education sector, Mel has learned from marketing professionals, keynote presenters, actors, and comedians to enhance student engagement in the classroom.
Through simple, practical adjustments that any educator can learn, Mel has consistently increased classroom engagement and student completion rates within her own classroom. Deeply committed to lifelong learning and educator development, she is passionate about empowering VET professionals with subtle yet powerful tools that shape how we teach and connect with learners.
Michael Ewer
Teaching and Learning Specialist, TAFE SA
Michael Ewer is a Principal Lecturer and Teaching & Learning Specialist at TAFE SA, where he works across disciplines to strengthen assessment quality, learning design, and emerging delivery models. With extensive experience in vocational education, Michael focuses on practical frameworks that help educators respond to assessment integrity risk, technology‑enabled learning, and system‑wide change without losing sight of teaching realities.
Michael has led and contributed to organisation‑wide initiatives spanning assessment redesign, generative AI in education, and quality assurance, and is an active contributor to cross‑sector communities of practice. His work emphasises evidence‑based decision‑making, scalable improvement, and supporting educators to make confident, defensible choices in complex regulatory environments.
As a speaker, Michael brings a pragmatic, practitioner‑focused perspective, blending strategy with actionable insights drawn from real‑world implementation in large VET systems.
Michele Tocci
Trainer and Assessor, Chisholm Institute
Michele Tocci is a facilitator and author specialising in evidence-based professional learning for VET educators. With over 20 years across TAFE, corporate, government, and industry training environments, she creates practical, neuroscience-informed workshops that help educators improve engagement, communication, and learner success.
Michele delivers programs across Australia on inclusive practice, cognitive load, feedback, emotional intelligence, and active learning, and her work supports trade teachers, foundation skills educators, and emerging trainers alike.
She designs learning that is interactive, accessible, and immediately applicable, enabling educators to strengthen their capability with confidence. Michele’s sessions focus on shifting real classroom practice, helping teachers make learning stick, reduce overload, and create environments where every learner can thrive.
Michelle Fitton
Director/General Manager, Blueprint Career Development
Michelle Fitton is the Director and General Manager of Blueprint Career Development, a Queensland-owned RTO founded not in a boardroom, but with two suitcases and a strong belief that every learner deserves a genuine opportunity. What began as school-based training delivered wherever a table could be found has grown into one of Queensland’s most trusted and innovative RTOs.
Michelle has led Blueprint’s growth into an organisation supporting more than 5,000 students each year across VET in Schools, corporate, community, and government-funded programs. Throughout this expansion, she has overseen the development of scalable, compliant training and assessment systems that balance regulatory requirements with meaningful learner outcomes.
With extensive experience in assessment design, validation, moderation, and the interpretation of assessment conditions and qualification companion guides, Michelle specialises in school-based delivery and the effective use of simulated and immersive learning environments. She is known for her practical, evidence-based approach to compliance and her ability to translate complex regulatory requirements into defensible, real-world practice.
Natalie Oostergo
Associate Director Student Success, University of Southern Queensland
Natalie Oostergo SFHEA (she/her/hers) is the Associate Director of Student Success Advising at the University of Southern Queensland where she leads the implementation of strategies to support the diverse learning needs of students. Natalie is an innovative and strategic thinker with over twenty years of experience in tertiary and vocational education.
Her career highlights include receiving an Australian Award for University Teaching, becoming a HEA Senior Fellow, IEAA Associate Fellow, and making lasting connections with students. Natalie lives and works on Jagera and Turrbal Country in Meanjin Brisbane.
Paul Hrasko
Senior Educator / ISSI 2025 Fellow, Victoria University - TAFE at VU
Paul Hrasko is a Senior Educator at Victoria University within the College of Health, Early Childhood Education and Community Services. Paul leads programs across Community Services and Mental Health and is recognised for his work in inclusive, trauma-informed and psychosocially safe teaching practice in the VET sector.
In 2025, Paul was awarded an ISS Institute Fellowship to investigate international best practice models for building gender-equitable cultures in vocational education and training. His research explores how systemic leadership, workforce sustainability, and inclusive pedagogical frameworks can strengthen both educator wellbeing and student outcomes.
Paul’s professional focus sits at the intersection of teaching quality, compliance, digital innovation, and cultural change. He is passionate about translating applied research into practical strategies that VET practitioners can implement immediately in classrooms, placement settings, and leadership contexts.
Through his work, Paul advocates for sector-wide approaches that balance regulatory standards with relational, student-centred practice to create safer, more inclusive learning environments across VET.
Petris Lapis
Director, Petris Lapis Pty Ltd
Petris Lapis B Com LLB LLM FIPA FFA
Petris has worked as a tax professional, university law lecturer, CFO, senior trainer, consultant, external author and director. She has qualifications in business, law, coaching, performance consulting and is trained in mindfulness. Petris has contributed to committees and boards for professional and sporting bodies. She has consulted to industry, government and the non-profit sector. Petris has also published several books and hundreds of papers. Her programs have featured in magazines, journals and online publications.
Petris has received numerous presenter of the conference awards at both National and State conferences. She lives life with humour and leaves audiences feeling empowered to make easy practical changes for growth. Audiences love her light-hearted, warm and engaging approach to even the toughest topics.
Rashan Senanayake
Founder & CEO, Inspired Education Australia
Rashan is a multi-award winning entrepreneur, inspiring innovation & emerging technologies (i.e. AI) capability around Australia as the founder and CEO of Australia's leading professional development for the 21st century education & industry: Inspired Education Australia. Rashan is also the Design Director for Inspired Design Australia, where his team services and helps other entrepreneurs, start-ups and small to medium businesses with 'Design for Business'. He has established a strong reputation for his entrepreneurial mindset and leadership across diverse industries and projects.
As a published author of 'Inspired Success: Designing Your Own Definition Of Success' and an international speaker, he has delivered impactful content to many stakeholders, schools, universities and businesses. For many years consistently, he has been a sought-after voice at global conferences, seminars, keynotes, and lectures for many years. Rashan's insights have been featured on various podcasts, in design journals, and in academic publications across Australia. His podcast, Inspiring Design, consistently ranks among the top 200 education podcasts globally and has been Australia's leading design and technology education resource for schools since 2021. In addition to his contributions to industry and education, Rashan is an academic at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), where he teaches Design, Design Thinking, and Architecture. He is an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and engages with global initiatives as a Global Shaper Alumni for the World Economic Forum (WEF) and a board member of the United Nations Association of Australia (UNAA) Queensland Chapter. Previously, he was the youngest board member of the Australian Green Development Forum (AGDF), further showcasing his commitment to sustainability and innovation.
To learn more, visit: www.rashansenanayake.com
Rod Matthews
Director, Rod Matthews Pty Ltd
Rod Matthews has developed a reputation nationally and internationally as a leading expert on change and human performance.
He has worked with organisations across the commercial and the not-for-profit sectors for over 20 years. His experience, enthusiasm and natural curiosity have allowed him to build an encyclopaedic knowledge of tips, tools and techniques. Rod is a voracious reader of many books and an author of 5.
In a world that faces a frightening volume and complexity of issues, Rod believes that our hope lies in our ability to think, create, and evolve.
Saxon Rice, Chief Executive Officer at Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA)
CEO Saxon Rice has extensive experience across the VET and employment services sectors as well as the public policy process. Ms Rice previously held a range of senior government, VET and management positions. She was Assistant Minister for Technical and Further Education in the former Queensland Government from 2012 to 2015, and Chair of the then Ministerial Industry Commission responsible for industry engagement.
Ms Rice is a former Director of Global Business Development for an Australian employment services company and was responsible for significant growth into new countries in the European and Asian markets. Ms Rice has also served in a range of Senate Committee Secretariats, including as Acting Secretary and Principal Research Officer to the Senate Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Committee. More recently, she was a Member of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal from 2016 to 2018 and is a Member and Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Ms Rice commenced as a Commissioner of ASQA on 16 April 2018, before being appointed as Chief Commissioner and CEO (initially Acting) on 7 October 2019. With effect from 1 January 2021. Ms Rice is appointed until 30 June 2027.
Shaheen
Inclusive Learning Specialist, Ta'leem Consulting
Shaheen is an inclusive learning designer and facilitator with over 13 years’ experience working across learning and development, education, and purpose-led organisations. She holds a Master’s degree in Learning Sciences and Technology and is known for translating complex ideas around inclusion and equity into practical design decisions for learning professionals.
As the founder of Ta’leem Consulting, a social enterprise focused on inclusion, she works at the intersection of social impact and learning design. Shaheen has designed and facilitated learning across higher education, disability and community organisations, and corporate settings, bringing a strong blend of strategic thinking and hands on practice.
Widely regarded as a thought leader in inclusive learning, Shaheen is a regular conference speaker and podcast guest, known for her warm, thoughtful presentation style and her laser focus on supporting practitioners. Her work centres on helping learning professionals notice what has been normalised, question default choices, and embed inclusivity in practice.
Shane Worthington
Chief Digital Officer - ASQA
Shane is currently the Chief Digital Officer at the Australian Skills Quality Authority. He has extensive experience in digital transformation, business operations modelling and service design, and couples this with his strong leadership and stakeholder management skills. This has seen Shane deliver a number of high-quality outcomes across the APS and he is now applying his skills and experience to shape the regulatory environment, through digital enablement, across Australia’s Vocation Education and Training sector.
Complementing Shane’s over 15 years’ experience in digital leadership is his Master of Business Administration, majoring in Digital Transformation and postgraduate qualifications in leadership and public sector management.
Tiffany McHugh
Lead: AI Skills Accelerator, Future Skills Organisation
Tiff McHugh leads the AI Skills Accelerator at FSO, steering a national effort to build digital and AI capability across the VET sector. With over 20 years’ experience in adult learning and deep expertise in digital education product design, portfolio strategy and product leadership, Tiff has a strong track record of delivering scalable, high‑impact learning solutions. Her passion for emerging technology, design and digital business leadership underpins her work across education and training.
A senior leader, Tiff has forged major partnerships and built high‑performing teams that deliver learning portfolios and experiences at scale. She has shaped programs for organisations including TAFE, Open Colleges, Google, Melbourne Business School, Keypath Education, Academy Xi and General Assembly. This sector‑spanning experience positions her ideally to drive the rapid growth, strategic direction and momentum of the AI Skills Accelerator at FSO.
Tony Kirton
Facilitator and Instructional Designer, Engage Learning and Development
Find out more about Tony's work on LinkedIn: #Tony Kirton
Tony Kirton is a facilitator and instructional designer with more than a 17 years’ experience in organisational learning and development, with 14 of those years in the Vocational Education and Training sector.
Known for his engaging facilitation and presentation style, Tony specialises in teaching VET educators evidence-based techniques that enhance learner engagement and learning outcomes.
He facilitates in a range of contexts, including face to face workshops, webinars and conference presentations with a wide range of public and private sector organisations. Tony's instructional design work includes training course and assessment design, often involving consultation with a range of stakeholders, including industry associations, unions and regulators.
Uncle John Graham
Uncle John Graham is a Traditional Custodian of the Gold Coast region - a Kombumerri man and saltwater man of the Gold Coast, part of the wider Yugambeh language group. He is a highly respected Aboriginal leader who has shared his cultural knowledge and protocols with organisations, communities and individuals across the region.
Uncle John worked at Griffith University for more than 20 years, including with the GUMURRII Unit. He represented the GC2018 Yugambeh Elders Group and received the Queen’s Baton in Auckland as part of the Queen’s Baton Relay. As Chair of the Yugambeh Region Aboriginal Corporation Alliance Board, he continues to support strong Traditional Custodian leadership and regularly delivers Welcomes to Country at major events across the Yugambeh language region.
Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre
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