Experience Higher Education's leading conference in a stunning beachside setting
Join us for two extraordinary days where inspiration meets celebration at the Stamford Grand, Glenelg. Nestled on Adelaide's pristine beachfront with the Adelaide Hills as your backdrop, you'll engage with world-class speakers, dive into interactive workshops across three specialised tracks and connect with peers - all while celebrating the launch of Australia's newest university.
Your conference experience includes:
- Dynamic sessions with industry thought leaders
- Three specialised tracks on Day 2: IR & Bargaining, Workplace Health and Safety and Culture, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
- Hands-on workshops and case studies led by subject matter experts
- Interactive activities and networking opportunities including optional beach walks and guided meditation
- A spectacular awards dinner at Longview Vineyard in the Adelaide Hills
- Our brand-new conference app to enhance your experience and foster connections
- Beautiful beachfront conference venue just 12 minutes from Adelaide Airport
- Plenty of surprises and fun throughout, including the Lolly Bar - don't forget to pack your sweet tooth!
20-21 May 2025 | Adelaide
- Secure your place with early bird pricing
- Specially negotiated accommodation rates at the Stamford Grand (first in, subject to availability)
- Special group discounts for AHEIA members
- An unforgettable professional development experience
The full conference program is coming soon. In the meantime, here's what to expect:
Tuesday 19 May 2026
Arrive and unwind with casual welcome activities in the evening. The perfect opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and meet new faces in a relaxed beachside setting.
Wednesday 20 May 2026
Immerse yourself in a full day of inspiring keynotes, interactive sessions and professional development. As the sun sets, join us for an unforgettable evening at Longview Vineyard in the Adelaide Hills for dinner and the prestigious AHEIA Awards celebration.
Thursday 21 May 2026
Continue your learning journey with our three specialised conference tracks in the morning, followed by closing keynotes in the afternoon. Wind down with activities and closing drinks as we celebrate two days of connection and growth.
Mid-afternoon: Workplace Relations Directors Forum (by invitation only - one representative per university)
Friday 22 May 2026
Morning: CPO Forum (by invitation only - one representative per university)
Keynotes and Panels
Professor Zlatko Skrbis | Vice-Chancellor and President, Australian Catholic University and AHEIA President
Welcome keynote: State of the sector address.
Dr Anna Cody | Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Australian Human Rights Commission
Leading implementation of landmark Respect@Work reforms and the positive duty framework.
Diana Taylor AM | Lawyer, Business Owner, Author & Keynote Speaker
2024 Member of the Order of Australia bringing powerful insights on leadership and creating lasting change.
Steve Ronson | Executive Director Operations, Fair Work Ombudsman
Adelaide-based leader promoting innovative approaches to workplace regulation and compliance.
Fiona Notley | Chief Operating Officer and Vice President, RMIT University and AHEIA Executive Committee Member
Leading through complexity and championing operational excellence in higher education.
Innovation Panel | Deakin University People & Culture Senior Leadership team
Legal Panel | Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer
Emeritus Professor John Dewar AO and Jenny Bridge | Partners, KordaMentha Performance Improvement
Presenting where to now for the sector based on KordaMentha's Higher Education Annual Report.
Track Presenters
Diana Taylor AM | Gender-Based Violence Code – Implementation and Impact
Southern Cross WHS Team | AHEIA Award-Winning Case Study
Melinda Simpson, Curtin University and Olga Klimczak, HSF Kramer | Workplace Health and Safety
Brendan Pearce, Southern Cross | Enterprise Bargaining Case Study
Perspectives on Enterprise Bargaining | Includes Courtney Lawless, ANU (Additional panelist details coming soon)
RMIT IDEA Team | AHEIA Award-Winning Case Study
Sallyanne Shearer, Flinders University – Menopause Friendly Workplace Program, Flinders University
Psychosocial Safety Case Study – Emerging Best Practices
Disclaimer: This conference program is confirmed at the date of marketing. However, AHEIA reserves the right to make changes to this program at any time as circumstances dictate. Speakers and topics were confirmed at the time of publishing; however, circumstances beyond the control of organisers may necessitate substitution, alternation or cancellations of the speakers and/or topic. Every effort will be made to ensure any unavoidable changes provide a program of equivalent standard and value.
Stamford Grand, Glenelg - Where Business Meets the Beach
Located on Adelaide's most iconic beachfront, the Stamford Grand offers the perfect blend of professional conference facilities and coastal relaxation. This grand beachfront hotel sits directly on Glenelg's pristine shores, where Jetty Road meets the Esplanade, placing you at the heart of one of South Australia's most beloved seaside destinations.
Built in 1990 on the site of the original 1911 Colley Reserve kiosk, the Stamford Grand combines heritage charm with modern amenities. Floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the venue showcase uninterrupted views across Holdfast Bay, creating a resort atmosphere while maintaining world-class professional facilities.
The Grand Ballroom, our main conference space, features a private balcony with stunning ocean views - the ideal setting for refreshment breaks, networking and simply soaking in the coastal ambiance between sessions.
Location Highlights:
- Just 8km from Adelaide Airport (approximately 12 minutes by car)
- Direct tram connection to Adelaide CBD
- Steps from Glenelg's vibrant dining and shopping precinct along Jetty Road
- Walking distance to the historic Glenelg Jetty and beachfront attractions
- Perfect autumn weather in May (average 12-19°C) for comfortable conference sessions and outdoor networking
Longview Vineyard - An Evening in the Adelaide Hills
Escape to the picturesque Adelaide Hills for an unforgettable evening of celebration, fine wine and recognition of excellence. Longview Vineyard offers an elegant setting where award-winning cool-climate wines meet seasonal regional cuisine.
The Barn, our dinner venue, is a stunning heritage stone building that perfectly balances rustic charm with sophisticated style. Overlooking rolling vineyard landscapes, this intimate space creates the ideal atmosphere for connection and celebration.
Guests will arrive to enjoy pre-dinner drinks on the grounds, taking in the vineyard vistas and Adelaide Hills scenery as the sun sets. Moving into The Barn for dinner, you'll experience a carefully curated menu featuring seasonal produce paired with Longview's celebrated wines.
Over a three-course meal, connect with sector peers, celebrate the year's achievements and enjoy the warmth of collegiality that makes AHEIA special. The prestigious AHEIA Awards will be presented between the main and dessert courses, honouring excellence and innovation across the higher education sector.
It's an evening that combines the best of South Australian hospitality with the recognition and celebration our sector deserves.
Welcome to Glenelg!
Adelaide's beautiful beachside destination invites you to extend your stay and discover why locals and visitors alike are drawn to this vibrant coastal precinct.
Glenelg seamlessly blends relaxed beach culture with sophisticated dining, boutique shopping and rich maritime heritage. Stroll along the historic Glenelg Jetty extending into Holdfast Bay, explore the cafes and restaurants lining bustling Jetty Road or simply unwind on the pristine sandy beach.
Don't miss:
- The Glenelg Foreshore - perfect for morning walks, sunset strolls, or a refreshing swim
- Jetty Road - Adelaide's iconic beachside shopping and dining strip
- Bay Discovery Centre - dive into local maritime history and culture
- The Glenelg Tram - a scenic 20-minute ride connecting you to Adelaide's CBD
- Beachfront dining - from casual cafes to fine dining with ocean views
- Water activities - swimming, stand-up paddleboarding or dolphin spotting cruises
With mild autumn weather and fewer crowds in May, it's the perfect time to experience Glenelg at its finest.
Discover Adelaide and Beyond
South Australia's capital city and surrounding regions offer an incredible array of experiences just waiting to be explored. Whether you're a food and wine enthusiast, culture lover, or nature seeker, Adelaide has something special for you.
- The Adelaide Hills - (30-45 minutes from Glenelg) Charming villages, cool-climate wineries and stunning autumn scenery make this region perfect for a day trip. Don't miss the historic town of Hahndorf, Australia's oldest surviving German settlement.
- McLaren Vale - (30 minutes south) World-renowned wine region featuring over 80 cellar doors, farm-gate produce and coastal beauty. The perfect combination of exceptional food, wine and scenery.
- Adelaide CBD - (20 minutes by tram) Discover the city's renowned food scene, cultural institutions including the Art Gallery of South Australia, beautiful parklands and the historic Adelaide Central Market - a foodie's paradise since 1869.
- Barossa Valley - (1 hour northeast) One of the world's great wine regions, offering legendary Shiraz, gourmet experiences and picture-perfect vineyard landscapes.
- Adelaide's Food & Wine Scene - Consistently ranked among Australia's top food cities, Adelaide offers everything from hatted restaurants to vibrant food markets, craft breweries and an emerging small bar culture.
The May conference timing offers perfect conditions for exploring - comfortable temperatures, beautiful autumn colours and the chance to experience South Australia without the summer crowds.
Why not arrive early or extend your stay? Take advantage of our negotiated accommodation rates and make the most of everything this remarkable region has to offer.
Wake up to ocean views and step straight into your conference venue. We've negotiated exclusive rates for AHEIA delegates:
- City View rooms: $249 per night including buffet breakfast for one
- Ocean View rooms: $269 per night including buffet breakfast for one
All rooms feature modern amenities, and you'll enjoy the convenience of staying where the conference is held - no commute required, just more time to connect with colleagues or enjoy the beachfront setting.
Booking Details:
- Rates valid: 19-23 May 2026
- Subject to availability - book early to secure your preferred room
- Must book via the delegate link below to access these exclusive rates
- Please change date to May 2026 to see available nights at conference rates
Stamford Grand Adelaide
Moseley Square, Glenelg SA 5045
From Adelaide Airport
- By car: Just 8km (approximately 12 minutes)
- By taxi/rideshare: Direct service available from the airport
- By public transport: Take the JetBus to the city, then tram to Glenelg (approximately 45 minutes)
From Adelaide CBD
- By tram: The Glenelg Tram runs directly from the city to Moseley Square (approximately 20 minutes)
- By car: 11km, approximately 20 minutes depending on traffic
- By taxi/rideshare: Quick and easy direct access
Parking
Limited parking is available at the Stamford Grand. Street parking and public car parks are available nearby in Glenelg.
Getting Around Glenelg
Once you're here, everything is walkable! The beach, Jetty Road shopping and dining precinct and all local attractions are within easy walking distance of the venue.
May offers ideal conference conditions in Adelaide, with mild autumn weather perfect for both indoor sessions and outdoor networking. Glenelg's beachfront location provides a comfortable coastal climate without the summer heat or winter chill.
What to Expect:
- Temperature range: 12-19°C
- Conditions: Pleasant autumn days with crisp mornings and comfortable afternoons
- What to pack: Layers are your friend! Bring a light jacket or cardigan for air-conditioned conference spaces and cooler mornings, plus comfortable clothes for daytime sessions
The moderate May weather makes it perfect for optional morning beach walks, balcony networking breaks with ocean views and exploring Glenelg's dining precinct in the evenings.
For updated weather information closer to the conference, visit:
Adelaide weather forecast