Students studying outside
Students studying outside

Education Update

16 July 2026

MEET THE SPEAKERS AND EXPLORE THE AGENDA AT THE PIE LIVE ASIA PACIFIC 2026

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The PIE Live Asia Pacific 2026, taking place on 28–29 July 2026 on the Gold Coast, is one of the international education sector's premier events, bringing together more than 375 delegates from 19 countries, 60+ expert speakers, and 30+ sponsors and exhibitors. 
 
Recognised as one of the world's leading platforms for international education, The PIE Live connects universities, colleges, English language schools, VET providers, education agents, government representatives, policy makers, NGOs and private providers to discuss the future of global education. 

This year's agenda features keynote presentations, expert panel discussions, interactive sessions and networking opportunities covering international student mobility, recruitment, policy, innovation, partnerships and emerging trends. Curated by The PIE's experienced editorial team, the program delivers valuable insights for professionals across every stage of the sector. 

With more than a quarter of attendees travelling from overseas, the event provides a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, build international partnerships and explore new opportunities in a rapidly evolving global landscape. 

Join us to meet world-class speakers, connect with industry leaders and be part of the conversations shaping the future of international education.

DISCOVER YOUR FUTURE AT BOND UNIVERSITY OPEN DAY 2026

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Thinking about your future study options? Bond University Open Day is the perfect opportunity to experience one of Australia's leading universities and discover what studying on the Gold Coast is all about. 

Join Bond University on Saturday, 25 July 2026, from 10:00am to 2:00pm to explore the campus, meet current students and academics, attend informative presentations, and experience the world-class facilities firsthand. Whether you're considering undergraduate or postgraduate study, or simply exploring your options, Open Day offers valuable insights to help you make informed decisions. 

Visitors will have the chance to ask questions, learn about courses, student life, scholarships, accommodation, and career pathways, while experiencing the vibrant campus community that makes Bond University unique. 

Students, parents, teachers, education agents and the wider community are all encouraged to attend and see why the Gold Coast is one of Australia's most exciting places to study and build a future. 

Where: Bond University, Gold Coast  
When: Saturday, 25 July 2026 
Time: 10:00am – 2:00pm

HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM STUDENT JOBS RECRUITMENT EVENT RETURNS IN 2026

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One of Experience Gold Coast Education's flagship initiatives, the Student Jobs Recruitment Event returns on 20 August 2026, connecting students with leading hospitality and tourism employers across the Gold Coast. 

Designed to enhance student employability while supporting local industry, the event brings together motivated, job-ready students and employers through a series of fast-paced networking and speed interview sessions. With around 200 casual, part-time and entry-level roles available, students have the opportunity to meet hiring managers directly, showcase their skills, and secure valuable employment opportunities. 

The event reflects Experience Gold Coast's commitment to strengthening connections between education and industry, helping students gain real-world experience while supporting businesses in building their future workforce. 

To help students prepare, a free Recruitment Preparation Workshop will be held on 22 July at the Gold Coast Student Hub. Participants will receive practical advice on creating a standout resume, developing a confident elevator pitch, and improving their interview skills. 

Whether you're looking for your first Australian job, flexible work while studying, or the first step in your career, the Student Jobs Recruitment Event is an opportunity not to be missed.

JUNE HIGHLIGHTS AT THE GOLD COAST STUDENT HUB 

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June was another fantastic month at the Gold Coast Student Hub, bringing students together to learn, connect, and make the most of their Gold Coast experience. 

Throughout the month, students built confidence at our English Language Conversation sessions, strengthened their professional profiles during Job Club: Level Up Your LinkedIn, and prioritised self-care at our Wellbeing Day, where free Winter Goodie Bags were handed out. 

Our social events were also a hit, with Pizza & Karaoke Night hosted by the fabulous Drag Queen Ivyy Monroe, creating a fun and welcoming space to meet new friends. Students also enjoyed an active Soccer Skills & Social Match at the Broadwater, while our Filipino Social Lunch & Live Music celebrated culture, community and connection. 

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make June such a memorable month. We love seeing students from around the world come together to build friendships, develop new skills, and feel at home on the Gold Coast. 

Stay tuned—there are plenty more exciting events and opportunities coming soon at the Gold Coast Student Hub!

INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIP RENEWALS NOW OPEN FOR FY2027

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Renewals for Experience Gold Coast Industry Partnerships are now underway for FY2027, and our team has already begun contacting current partners to discuss their renewal. 

Over the coming weeks, you can expect to hear from a member of our team to review your partnership, update your organisation's details, and ensure you continue to enjoy the benefits and opportunities available through our partnership program. 

We encourage all current partners to explore the FY2027 Partnership Prospectus, which outlines the range of marketing opportunities, industry events, networking programs, destination promotion initiatives, and collaborative activities designed to help showcase the Gold Coast as a world-class destination to visit, study, work and invest. 

We look forward to continuing our partnership and working together to strengthen the Gold Coast across tourism, education, events, business events, arts and culture, creating opportunities that enhance our destination, support local industry, and showcase the Gold Coast as a world-class place to visit, study, work and invest. 

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT: IMAGINE EDUCATION AUSTRALIA

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For over 20 years, Imagine Education Australia has been empowering students through high-quality vocational education and English language programs, helping learners achieve their academic and career goals while enjoying the Gold Coast lifestyle. 

With three campuses on the Gold Coast and one in Brisbane, Imagine Education offers a diverse range of courses across English, Business, Hospitality, Automotive, Community Services, Children's Services and more. Its modern, purpose-built campuses feature state-of-the-art learning facilities and interactive technology, creating an engaging and supportive learning environment. 

A standout feature of Imagine Education is its commitment to hands-on learning. Students gain valuable real-world experience through live training environments, including automotive workshops and commercial training kitchens, allowing them to develop practical skills that prepare them for employment. 

Imagine Education also provides flexible study options, multiple intakes throughout the year, and comprehensive student support services, including homestay assistance, a free campus shuttle service, and employment support to help students settle into life on the Gold Coast. 

As a valued Experience Gold Coast Education Partner, Imagine Education continues to play an important role in developing skilled graduates and contributing to the Gold Coast's reputation as a leading international education destination.

QUICK SNIPPETS

  • The Australian Government has confirmed that the National Planning Level (NPL) for international student commencements will remain at 295,000 in 2027, consistent with the 2026 level. The announcement also outlines changes to student visa fees, continued priority processing for key student cohorts, and a commitment to maintaining the integrity and quality of Australia’s international education system while supporting sustainable growth. For the international VET sector, current provider allocations will be maintained, with ongoing visa integrity settings expected to influence future enrolments. Read more.     
  • The 2025 Graduate Outcomes Survey (International Report) found that visa settings and limited pathways to permanent residency remain key barriers to international graduates securing graduate-level employment in Australia. Many graduates reported being overqualified for their current roles, with underemployment persisting, partly linked to work restrictions during study. Employment outcomes for international graduates continue to lag behind those of domestic graduates, particularly in full-time employment, although a significant proportion pursue further study after graduation. Outcomes vary by field of study, with graduates in medicine and allied health reporting stronger employment outcomes, while those in creative arts, psychology, communication, and some science disciplines face greater challenges. The report highlights the importance of expanding access to relevant work experience during study to improve graduate employability. Read more.

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VIEW THE 2 JULY 2026 EDUCATION UPDATE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Experience Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region. 
 
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.