26 March 2026
EGC EDUCATION INDUSTRY PARTNER EVENT – ROBINA TAFE
It was fantastic to bring 80 of our Education Industry Partners together at the Education Industry Partners Event at TAFE Queensland Robina on 19 March.
A key highlight of the night was hearing from Matt Boyd, Executive Director – Education at Experience Gold Coast, who shared important insights and priorities shaping 2026. His update reinforced our collective focus on:
- Student Attraction – enhancing global visibility and positioning the Gold Coast as a leading study destination
- Careers & Employability – connecting students with real job opportunities and industry pathways
- Student Experience & Wellbeing – building a supportive and engaging community through the Student Hub
- Industry Partnerships – strengthening collaboration to deliver better outcomes across the sector
The event highlighted the strength of our network and our shared commitment to building a more connected, sustainable, and globally recognised education destination for both domestic and international students.
GOLD COAST CAREERS FESTIVAL 2026
The Gold Coast Careers Festival returns on 20–21 May 2026, offering an interactive experience where students and jobseekers can connect directly with employers and education providers across key industries such as future industries, education, health, community services, and creative sectors. The event highlights strong alignment with the Gold Coast economy while creating opportunities to explore emerging sectors like tourism, major events, and the broader knowledge economy.
LEVERAGING GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES: EGC EDUCATION AT MEET THE BUYER BREAKFAST
Gus, Paula, and Benson represented the Experience Gold Coast Education team at the City of Gold Coast’s Meet the Buyer Breakfast, gaining valuable insights into how local industries are preparing for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The event brought together hundreds of businesses and key stakeholders to explore procurement opportunities across sectors such as infrastructure, hospitality, technology, and event management. The event highlighted the scale and long-term economic impact of the Games.
From an education perspective, this was a powerful opportunity to understand how we can better align our study destination with industry demand. By connecting students with emerging sectors, future job pathways, and real-world opportunities linked to Brisbane 2032, we can further strengthen the Gold Coast’s position as a leading global study destination.
The insights gained will support EGC’s ongoing work in student attraction, careers and employability and student experience, ensuring students choose the Gold Coast to study, and stay here to build meaningful careers aligned with the region’s future growth.
RECORD-BREAKING YEAR FOR THE 2026 MAYOR’S STUDENT AMBASSADOR PROGRAM
The 2026 Mayor’s Student Ambassador (MSA) program has achieved a record milestone, receiving 137 applications - its highest number to date and a significant increase from 95 in 2025 and 82 in 2024. This strong growth reflects the increasing engagement and enthusiasm of students across the Gold Coast.
A sincere thank you to our industry partners for their continued support in sharing and promoting the program. Your contribution plays a vital role in its success. The selected students and ambassadors will be announced soon.
NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE 2026 ENGLISH AUSTRALIA AWARDS
Nominations are now open across a range of categories for the 2026 English Australia Awards, recognising excellence and impact across the ELICOS sector, including Academic Leadership, Innovation, Action Research, the Christine Bundesen AM Grant, Contribution to Professional Practice, the John Gallagher Award for ELICOS Sector Contribution, and Lifetime Achievement.
As nominations open, this is your moment to shine a light on those making a real difference. Whether it’s an individual going above and beyond or an initiative driving innovation and impact, now is the time to put them forward. We especially encourage our Gold Coast community to come together and nominate our outstanding schools and professionals who continue to elevate our region as a leading global study destination.
Nominations close at 11:59pm on Wednesday 20 May.
Those selected will be honoured at the 2026 English Australia Conference Gala Awards Dinner on 17 September in Melbourne.
Take a moment to nominate a colleague or champion an initiative and help celebrate the people and work that make our sector truly exceptional.
DRIVING GLOBAL GROWTH: EGC AT THE QUEENSLAND EXPORTER CONFERENCE 2026
Matt Boyd, Executive Director – Education, and Cherie Huang, Trade and Partnership Manager – Education, represented Experience Gold Coast at the inaugural Queensland Exporter Conference, presented by Trade and Investment Queensland.
Held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, the conference brought together exporters, industry leaders, and trade experts for a high-impact day focused on accelerating global growth.
With over 600 registrations, International Education and Training stood out as the largest participating sector, highlighting its critical role in Queensland’s export economy. The event also provided valuable access to Queensland’s global Trade and Investment Commissioners, offering practical insights into emerging markets and future opportunities for expansion.
A NEW PATHWAY TO GLOBAL SUCCESS FOR QUEENSLAND EXPORTERS
A new chapter has opened for Queensland businesses looking to expand globally. Announced at the Queensland Exporter Conference by Ros Bates MP, the Queensland Exporter Academy is set to support businesses in moving from emerging exporters to globally competitive operators.
Delivered by Trade and Investment Queensland, the Academy focuses on building practical capabilities, strengthening international connections, and equipping businesses with the tools needed to succeed in global markets.
The Exporter Academy is FREE for Queensland businesses looking to export and diversify into new markets.
Now is the time to prepare, grow, and scale your export journey.
KICKING OFF 2026: CAREERS ALLIANCE FIRST SESSION AT HOTA
The first Careers Alliance session of 2026 brought together educators, industry partners, and creatives at HOTA, Home of the Arts for an inspiring morning focused on shaping future pathways in the creative industries.
Hosted by Experience Gold Coast – Education, the event ‘Curating a Creative Career on the Gold Coast’ explored how we can better support young people in navigating careers across film, media, and the broader creative sector.
Attendees gained valuable insights into current research on skills demand, the evolving impact of AI on creative roles, and practical strategies for succeeding in the gig economy. A highlight of the morning was the behind-the-scenes experience of the Gold Coast’s cultural precinct, followed by an engaging panel discussion with industry experts.
The session reinforced the importance of collaboration between education and industry to ensure students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to thrive in creative careers - setting a strong tone for the year ahead.
STUDENT HUB TAKES OVER ORIENTATION WEEK
During T1 O-Week, the Hub team connected with over 250 new Griffith students across, and 200 new Southern Cross University students through several on-campus events, meeting new students and sharing information about the Gold Coast Student Hub.
The Student Hub also hosted Griffith Mates Twilight Tours to the Hub each afternoon of O-Week, giving students the chance to visit the space, explore the facilities, and learn more about the services and support available to them throughout the year.
GOLD COAST STUDENT HUB SCU ORIENTATION
The Hub team visited Southern Cross University’s Orientation Day and had the opportunity to meet over 200 new students. We connected with students through fun games and activities while sharing important information about the Gold Coast Student Hub, including the services, support, and events available throughout the year. It was a great way to welcome new students and introduce them to the Hub community.
SAVE THE DATE | NATIONAL CAREERS WEEK 2026 (11–17 MAY)
Join us at the Gold Coast Student Hub for a week of career-focused events, workshops, and networking opportunities.
From study pathways and job skills to industry panels and entrepreneurship, National Careers Week is your chance to connect, learn, and take the next step in your career.
11–17 May 2026
Gold Coast Student Hub & partner campuses
More details coming soon.
BUFTA 2025 WINNER VISITS THE GOLD COAST
Alexander Salomon, winner of the Bond University Film & Television Academy (BUFTA) 2025 Best International Film award for Sunrise Falling, visited the Gold Coast to experience the city’s world-class education, lifestyle and creative industries.
Representing The Buckley School (California, United States), Alexander had the opportunity to explore some of the region’s most iconic locations, including Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, HOTA, Home of the Arts, the Gold Coast Student Hub, and Bond University. During his visit, he also shared insights into his creative journey and reflecting on his experience in the city. Alexander’s visit highlights the Gold Coast’s growing reputation as a global hub for film, creativity, and international education.
What did you enjoy most about visiting Bond University?
My visit to Bond was fantastic! From the campus and all its facilities to all of the staff and students, everything seemed so pleasant and welcoming. Everybody present seemed to truly love the school and their education, making it feel very warm and welcoming.
What was your first impression of the Gold Coast?
From almost everyone I met; the Gold Coast kept being described to me as a paradise, and I completely get why. With practically every day being sunny with blue skies and being in an incredible location wedged between mountains/forests and ocean, the city seemed to have everything. It was very well kept and people had smiles on their faces anywhere I went.
What did you enjoy most about visiting HOTA?
HOTA felt like a wonderful addition to an already great place. A centre for connection and socialisation through the arts and media felt very beneficial for the city. I enjoyed most the changing art exhibits, which showcases the great range of local and foreign artists’ work.
How was your Experience at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary?
The Currumbin sanctuary was gorgeous and felt like a trip through a jungle just outside of the city. The animals all appeared cared for and content, an importance in sustaining a peaceful natural/metropolitan balance.
How was your experience at the Student Hub?
The student hub felt very cosy and everyone there seemed to really care for setting an environment in which students from all over the world felt safe and welcome.
Define the Gold Coast in one word?
Paradise.
QUICK SNIPPETS
- From 3–5 June 2026, the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre will host ITEC26, Australia’s premier gathering of leaders, innovators, and decision-makers across tertiary and international education. Under the theme Navigating Change. Empowering Innovation., the conference will explore emerging trends, technologies, and global opportunities while providing valuable insights, connections, and practical strategies to help shape the future of education and skills. Read more.
- A new chapter begins for the Regional Migration Conference as it moves to the Gold Coast for the first time, marking the start of a national rotation aimed at increasing accessibility, diversity, and engagement across Australia. Taking place on Friday 8 May 2026 at The Langham, Gold Coast, this year’s conference will bring together industry leaders for a day of insightful discussions and collaboration on the future of regional migration. Read more.