17 April 2025
INTRODUCING THE 2025 MAYOR’S STUDENT AMBASSADORS
We are thrilled to officially announce the launch of the 2025 Mayor’s Student Ambassador Program. At the start of April, a special ceremony was held at Council Chambers, where 21 outstanding students representing 14 countries and 8 prestigious educational institutions were appointed as the 2025 Mayor’s Student Ambassadors. Gold Coast City Mayor Tom Tate, key City dignitaries, the Experience Gold Coast Board, and our valued industry partners attended the event.
A standout moment of the ceremony was a speech by 2024 Mayor’s Student Ambassador Reshma Joshy, who shared how the program gave her valuable exposure, networks, and experience. Her advice to the 2025 cohort was clear: “Say YES to all opportunities that come your way - the invitations, the conferences, the meetings, the panels - get involved!”
Join us in welcoming the 2025 Gold Coast Mayor’s Student Ambassadors.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM ICEF ANZA: A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE
Earlier this month, the Gold Coast hosted ICEF ANZA 2025, welcoming 380+ international education leaders from 39 countries across five continents.
Co-hosted by Experience Gold Coast, the conference showcased the city’s strength as a global education hub - with over 70 one-on-one meetings, engaging seminars, and meaningful connections throughout.
More than just a networking event, ICEF ANZA was a celebration of shared commitment to student success and international collaboration.
The presence of The Hon Ros Bates MP and Hermann Vorster MP underscored the strategic importance of international education to Queensland’s future, leaving a strong impression on delegates.
With its world-class institutions, supportive student ecosystem and unbeatable lifestyle, the Gold Coast made a strong impression on the global stage.
A big thank you to all attendees and partners who made ICEF ANZA 2025 such a success.
INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES
AFTER DARK PRESENTED BY GOLD COAST CAREERS FESTIVAL
Step into an exciting evening filled with inspiration, expert advice, and new opportunities designed to empower career changers and seekers to take bold strides toward their dream job!
Join us for meaningful networking, candid career conversations and the chance to explore personalised study pathways – all while enjoying a festival-like environment with live entertainment, food, drinks, exciting prizes, and giveaways.
Date: Thursday 15 May 2025
Time: 5.30pm - 8pm
Venue: Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre, 296 Nerang Broadbeach Road, Carrara
Parking: complimentary parking is available onsite
Visit our website to register.
CALL FOR SPEAKERS: THE PIE LIVE
The PIE Live Gold Coast returns in 2025 – this time at HOTA, Home of the Arts, a venue that embodies creativity and innovation. This year’s conference will spotlight disruptors and trailblazers in international education, offering a platform to share bold ideas and solutions.
We are seeking speakers with compelling case studies, fresh perspectives, and actionable insights on navigating today’s challenges in the sector. If you’re driving change or have unique strategies to share, the team at The PIE Live want to hear from you.
Got a story to share? Submit your speaker application today and help shape the future of international education on the Gold Coast. Reach out to us at education@experiencegoldcoast.com.
AUSTRALIA INTRODUCES VOCATIONAL DEGREE: A GAME-CHANGER FOR EDUCATION
The Australian Government has introduced the Vocational Degree, a groundbreaking addition to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). This marks a significant step in bridging vocational and higher education, aligning with the goals of the 2023 Working Future White Paper to create a more skilled and adaptable workforce.
Combining practical training with advanced knowledge, Vocational Degrees are designed to meet industry needs, ensuring graduates are job ready. This initiative enhances pathways for international students, offering globally relevant skills and employability. It reflects Australia’s commitment to modernising education and addressing workforce demands through innovative qualifications.
GET READY FOR THE REVAMPED EGC CAREERS VAN – HITTING THE ROAD!
We’re beyond excited to unveil the revamped EGC Careers Van, now ready to roll across the Gold Coast! With a striking new design by Tait Whitelaw, EGC Multimedia Specialist, this van is sure to turn heads and make an impact.
The van is an integral part of our careers and employability activations as the EGC team bring career guidance, local employment opportunities, and inspiration directly to schools. It’s not just a van – it’s a mobile careers hub helping to shape the next generation of Gold Coast talent!
PACIFIC PINES CAREERS FESTIVAL: A THRIVING EVENT FOR STUDENTS
Last month’s Pacific Pines Careers Festival opened a world of possibilities for high school students, offering an exciting and interactive look into future career pathways. With strong representation from industry leaders and education providers, students were able to explore a diverse range of professions - from healthcare to hospitality, and everything in between.
Hands-on experiences brought careers to life, with students testing practical skills, trying on uniforms, and stepping into future roles through popular VR simulations - a definite crowd favourite among both students and teachers.
Events like these play a powerful role in shaping ambition and curiosity, inspiring the next generation of professionals.
VIEW THE 3 APRIL 2025 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.