NILSC FAQs
The IERC looks forward to welcoming you to the National Indigenous Learning Support Conference 2026. This page provides helpful information to support your conference experience, including registration details, program updates, travel information, accessibility support, and answers to frequently asked questions.
As new information becomes available, this website will continue to be updated to help you prepare for your visit to James Cook University in Townsville.
About the National Indigenous Learning Support Conference
The National Indigenous Learning Support Conference brings together Indigenous learning support leaders, practitioners, and educators from across the higher education sector. It provides an opportunity to share successful practices, explore emerging challenges and opportunities, strengthen professional networks, and contribute to discussions that support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student success.
First hosted by James Cook University in 2023, the inaugural conference attracted more than 100 delegates from 27 Australian universities, creating a national forum dedicated to advancing Indigenous learning support in higher education.
The conference is hosted by the Indigenous Education and Research Centre (IERC) at James Cook University (JCU).
The conference is designed for learning support leaders, managers, practitioners, and staff who work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in tertiary education settings.
The Directors & Managers Half-Day Forum provides an opportunity for sector leaders to come together ahead of the main conference to discuss strategic priorities, sector developments, and emerging issues affecting Indigenous learning support services across higher education.
Visit our Program page to learn more about the agenda and discussion topics planned for the day.
Registration
Registrations can be completed through our online registration page via Eventbrite. Simply follow the registration link and complete the required details to secure your place.
If you'd like to learn more, explore our Program and Registration pages for conference details, venue information, key dates, and an overview of what to expect. We encourage you to register early and join colleagues from across the sector for three days of learning, collaboration, and connection. Registrations close Friday, 25 September 2026.
- Welcome networking event and conference pack collection at the Indigenous Education and Research Centre
- Entry to all conference sessions and keynote presentations
- Participation in workshop sessions
- Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea on conference days
- Admission to the Conference Dinner, including a three-course meal (alcohol is not included in the registration fee)
Full registration details can be found on our Registration page.
Yes. Delegates are welcome to attend only the sessions that fit their schedule; however, registration fees remain the same regardless of the length of attendance. We encourage delegates to participate in as much of the program as possible to gain the full benefit of the conference experience, including networking opportunities, knowledge sharing, and discussions with colleagues from across the sector who are working to strengthen Indigenous student success.
The Directors & Managers Half-Day Forum is intended for Directors and Managers of Indigenous learning support services. For all other delegates, the conference program commences at 9:00 am on Thursday 15 October 2026.
Yes. Registrations close on Friday, 25 September 2026.
Yes. If you are unable to attend, registrations may be transferred to another delegate. Please contact the conference team (ierc.programs@jcu.edu.au) as soon as possible so registration details can be updated prior to the event.
Refunds can be provided for cancellations received before Friday, 25 September 2026. Unfortunately, refunds cannot be issued after this date due to event planning and catering commitments.
Conference Program
This conference is suitable for professionals who support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students within tertiary education, including learning support staff, program coordinators, managers, and sector leaders. The conference provides opportunities to share knowledge, explore emerging practices, and connect with colleagues from across Australia who are committed to Indigenous student success.
- Tutor Recruitment and Workforce Development
- TAPS (Tutoring and Peer Support Models)
- Application-to-Enrolment Conversion Strategies
- Outreach and Pipeline Development
- On-Campus Programs (including Winter School)
- Addressing Racism in Learning Environments
- Lean In / Lean Out Engagement Strategies
- Learning Support Service Models
- Learner Identity and Capability Development
- Changes in Sector
View our Program page to view full details.
The conference program is available on the Program page and will continue to be updated as additional information becomes available.
Presentation slides may be available following the conference at the discretion of individual presenters. Delegates are welcome to contact the conference team to request copies of presentation materials.
No. Conference sessions will not be recorded.
Yes. Delegates are free to attend the workshop sessions that are most relevant to their interests and professional responsibilities. Workshop streams will be scheduled across multiple sessions to provide opportunities to engage with a variety of topics throughout the conference. We encourage delegates to participate in as much of the program as possible to maximise opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and learning from the experiences of colleagues across the sector.
Travel and Accommodation
The conference will be held at James Cook University's Bebegu Yumba Campus in Townsville, Queensland (1 James Cook Dr, Douglas QLD 4814). Scroll to the bottom of the registration page to view the map.
Recommended accommodation options are located within the Townsville CBD and waterfront precincts, approximately 15–20 minutes by car from James Cook University. Delegates are encouraged to book early, as accommodation availability may become limited closer to the conference dates. Some options include:
- The Ville Resort-Casino – Premium waterfront resort offering accommodation, restaurants, and conference facilities.
- Grand Hotel and Apartments Townsville – Located in the Palmer Street dining precinct with hotel rooms and apartment-style accommodation options.
- Oaks Townsville Gateway Suites – Apartment-style accommodation in the city centre, offering spacious rooms and easy access to dining and local attractions.
- Hotel Grand Chancellor Townsville – Centrally located accommodation close to restaurants, shopping, and local attractions.
Yes. Free parking is available on campus. Please refer to the campus map for parking locations and directions.
The nearest airport is Townsville Airport, located approximately 15 minutes from the James Cook University campus. The airport is located at the corner of Halifax Street and Stinson Avenue, Garbutt, Queensland.
Accessibility and Inclusion
Yes. We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible event environment and will work with attendees to support accessibility requirements wherever possible. This can be provided during the registration process through the Eventbrite registration form. Registrations close Friday, 25 September 2026.
Dietary requirements can be provided during the registration process through the Eventbrite registration form. Registrations close Friday, 25 September 2026.
Accessibility requirements can be noted during registration. If you would like to discuss specific requirements, please contact the conference team (ierc.programs@jcu.edu.au) directly.
Yes. We encourage attendees to let us know about any accessibility or support requirements in advance. Our team will work with you to provide reasonable assistance wherever possible. Please contact ierc.programs@jcu.edu.au for further information.
Conference Dinner
Yes. Attendance at the Conference Dinner is included as part of your conference registration.
No. Additional dinner tickets are not available for purchase at this time.
The dress code for the Conference Dinner is business attire. Delegates are encouraged to dress professionally for this special conference event while remaining comfortable for an evening of networking and celebration.
Contact, Enquiries and Updates
Please visit our Contact Us page for conference enquiries and contact details. You are also welcome to contact the conference team (ierc.programs@jcu.edu.au) directly.
Registered delegates will receive email updates and important event information in the lead-up to the conference. This website will also be updated regularly and should be considered the primary source of conference information and announcements.
Ready to join us?
We look forward to welcoming delegates from across Australia to the National Indigenous Learning Support Conference 2026. Whether you're attending to share successful practices, explore new ideas, or connect with colleagues from across the sector, we encourage you to secure your place and be part of the conversation.
View our Program and Registration pages to learn more and register today. If you have any questions, please visit our Contact Us page and our team will be happy to assist.