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.
10.40am
Stronger Together
Ali Wall
VET Cluster Transition Contract Manager
This session looks at the range of stakeholders that are involved in, and impact on a VET program in a secondary school. This includes consideration of the needs of students, trainers, schools, RTOs, cluster networks, industry organisations, employers.
11.10am
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 Sessions 1
12:20pm Breakout Sessions 2
12:55pm Breakout Sessions 3
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.
2:15pm Breakout Sessions 4
2:50pm Breakout Sessions 5
3.25pm
Keynote Address
Andrew Shea - Managing Director, Skilled Nation
Preparing young people for the Future of Work: AI, VET and the skills that will matter most.
As artificial intelligence, automation and shifting industry needs reshape the labour market, the way we prepare young people for work must also change. In this keynote, respected VET sector leader, Andrew Shea, will explore how VET delivered in secondary schools can play a critical role in helping students build the technical, human and transferable skills they will need for a fast-changing future.
The session will examine the impact of AI on entry-level work, the growing importance of adaptability, judgement and communication, and how educators can better support young people, particularly diverse and at-risk learners, to move into meaningful post-school pathways with confidence.
3.55pm
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.