Program
VETDSS Summit 2026
FRIDAY 19th JUNE - Crown Conference Centre Melbourne
Where high-quality VET meets student wellbeing, engagement and real-world pathways.
Join school leaders and VET practitioners to explore practical, proven approaches that strengthen senior secondary engagement and create confident transitions into work and further study.
Future-ready students start here.
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8am
Registration
Arrive, connect and explore. Delegates can register, enjoy refreshments and visit trade displays showcasing innovative VET resources, training models and industry partnerships. This informal start sets the tone for a collaborative, solutions-focused day.
9am
Welcome
The Summit officially opens with a clear overview of the day’s agenda, key themes and intended outcomes. Housekeeping details will be covered, along with an introduction to interactive elements including prize challenges designed to keep engagement high throughout the day.
9.15am
Keynote Address
Dr Natalie Flatt will explore the growing importance of psychosocial safety in education and training environments. This session examines how psychologically safe learning spaces improve student engagement, reduce disengagement risk and strengthen VET outcomes. Practical strategies will be shared to help schools embed wellbeing into VET delivery without increasing compliance burden.
10am
Shaping Future Careers: Insights from Australia’s Jobs and Skills Councils
What capabilities will tomorrow’s workforce demand? Representatives from Australia’s Jobs and Skills Councils will share emerging industry trends, priority skill areas and future workforce challenges. Short, sharp presentations will highlight sector insights, followed by an interactive Q&A exploring how schools and RTOs can align VETDSS programs with evolving labour market needs. A forward-looking session for leaders planning future-ready pathways.
10.30am
VET Pathways Design Lab
An interactive workshop focused on improving the school → RTO → industry journey. Participants will work in mixed groups to co-map real student pathways, identify friction points and redesign key transition moments. Using collaborative mapping tools and facilitated discussion, groups will propose practical improvements that can be implemented immediately. A highly engaging, solutions-driven session.
11am
Supporting VET Delivery
The pace of change in education, industry, and technology is accelerating — and Vocational Education and Training Delivered to Secondary Students (VETDSS) must evolve with it. This concise and practical session explores how schools and RTOs can confidently navigate this changing landscape while maintaining high-quality, compliant, and student-centred VET delivery.
Led by The Learning Resources Group, this session will provide an up-to-date snapshot of the key developments shaping VETDSS — from emerging technologies in assessment and compliance, to evolving expectations from regulators and industry.
11.15am
Morning Tea
Networking continues with refreshments and trade display engagement. A valuable opportunity to connect with peers, industry partners and solution providers.
11:45am
Breakout Session 1
Delegates choose from three themed streams, allowing tailored learning aligned to their role and priorities.
Stream 1 – VET Practice
Designed specifically for teachers and trainers, this stream dives into the "how" of high-impact delivery. We explore evidence-based teaching strategies, innovative assessment design, and the creation of inclusive learning environments that boost student engagement and wellbeing. This is about sharpening your craft to deliver better outcomes for every student.
Stream 2 – VET Pathways
Aimed at school leadership, Career Coordinators, and transition specialists, this stream focuses on the strategic architecture of student success. We examine how to design robust, supported pathways that bridge the gap between school and apprenticeships, traineeships, or further study, ensuring every student has a clear and viable roadmap for the future.
Stream 3 – VET Programs
Tailored for VET Coordinators and RTO Managers, this stream addresses the nuts and bolts of program management. From navigating complex compliance landscapes to building sustainable, industry-aligned models, we focus on the practicalities of getting a VET program off the ground and keeping it running smoothly.
Each breakout block features different presenters and case studies, ensuring fresh insights across all three rotations.
12.15pm
Breakout Session 2
Delegates choose from three themed streams, allowing tailored learning aligned to their role and priorities.
Stream 1 – VET Practice
High-impact teaching, assessment strategies and learning environments that increase engagement and strengthen wellbeing outcomes.
Stream 2 – VET Pathways
Designing clear, supported transitions from school into apprenticeships, traineeships, employment and further study.
Stream 3 – VET Programs
Innovative and sustainable VETDSS program models that balance compliance, quality and industry alignment.
Each breakout block features different presenters and case studies, ensuring fresh insights across all three rotations.
12.45pm
Breakout Session 3
Delegates choose from three themed streams, allowing tailored learning aligned to their role and priorities.
Stream 1 – VET Practice
High-impact teaching, assessment strategies and learning environments that increase engagement and strengthen wellbeing outcomes.
Stream 2 – VET Pathways
Designing clear, supported transitions from school into apprenticeships, traineeships, employment and further study.
Stream 3 – VET Programs
Innovative and sustainable VETDSS program models that balance compliance, quality and industry alignment.
Each breakout block features different presenters and case studies, ensuring fresh insights across all three rotations.
1.15pm
Lunch + Networking
A relaxed networking lunch alongside trade displays. Delegates can participate in a Networking Scavenger Hunt designed to spark conversation, build connections and add energy to the afternoon session — with prizes on offer.
2pm
Breakout Session 4
A final opportunity to engage deeply in one of the three Summit streams. This session focuses on implementation strategies — turning ideas into practical action back at school.
Stream 1 – VET Practice
High-impact teaching, assessment strategies and learning environments that increase engagement and strengthen wellbeing outcomes.
Stream 2 – VET Pathways
Designing clear, supported transitions from school into apprenticeships, traineeships, employment and further study.
Stream 3 – VET Programs
Innovative and sustainable VETDSS program models that balance compliance, quality and industry alignment.
Each breakout block features different presenters and case studies, ensuring fresh insights across all three rotations.
2.30pm
Student Voice Fishbowl
What Helped Us Succeed in VETDSS?
Current and past VETDSS students take centre stage in a dynamic fishbowl discussion. Students share firsthand insights into what supported their success, what barriers they faced and what schools did that made the biggest difference. A powerful reminder that student voice must shape program design.
3.15pm
Keynote Address
The Future of VET
A forward-looking keynote exploring where VET is heading nationally and globally. This session will examine innovation, system reform, industry evolution and the opportunity for schools to lead change. Designed to leave delegates energised and future-focused.
3.45pm
Wrap Up
A fast-paced close to the day, capturing key insights, audience reflections and next steps. Interactive feedback tools will gather delegate priorities and commitments. Prize winners will be announced and acknowledgements shared.
Book Now
Register your interest today and secure your school’s place at the VETDSS Summit.
Further program highlights and details will be released shortly.
Use promo code EARLY26 for $50 off before March 28th 2026