NEWS

From Struggle to Strength: The Importance of Resilience and Community at NEAS 2025

Posted on | by Silvia Loss

We are excited to have Luke Kennedy as our closing plenary speaker. Luke’s journey reminds us that our toughest challenges can actually open doors to new growth and opportunities. His message of resilience encourages us to embrace change, look past difficulties, and draw strength from the communities we build together.

Luke Kennedy
Motivational Speaker

A Story of Profound Transformation

Luke Kennedy is far from your typical inspirational speaker. His story stretches from street survival and near-death experiences to becoming a best-selling author, a successful corporate trainer, and a mentor for young people. Luke shows us that overcoming hardship isn’t just possible, but it can inspire personal and professional growth. A message that feels especially relevant now,  as the international education sector in Australia faces critical, make-or-break challenges.

The Power of Resilience and a Transformative Mindset

Luke’s story offers a fresh perspective on the power of mental strength and transformative mindset shifts. His approach goes beyond just managing difficulties; it’s about thriving amidst uncertainty. By addressing wellness and mental health, he offers practical strategies to build emotional and mental resilience, nurture a sense of purpose, and cultivate environments where people feel connected and ready to embrace change.

A Closing Plenary Speaker Who Delivers More Than Inspiration

Luke isn’t just here to talk about resilience: he’s here to show us how to live it. As the closing plenary speaker at this year’s NEAS Conference, Luke will go beyond motivation, providing real strategies to help us navigate change and uncertainty. His engaging, no-nonsense approach will provide us with the tools to turn adversity into opportunity and strengthen our sense of community, connection, and belonging.

With so much change and uncertainty in Australia’s international education sector, Luke’s message couldn’t be more timely. His story is a powerful reminder that resilience isn’t just about getting through tough times, it’s about moving forward with purpose. 

Join us at the 2025 NEAS Conference and gain real, practical strategies to navigate change. Luke’s session will help you shift your mindset, adapt, and turn challenges into opportunities. As a community, we will come together to embrace change and shape the future of international education, stronger and more connected than ever.

Register here

News from Adam

Posted on | by Silvia Loss

Welcome to the latest edition of our CEO’s column News From Adam.

It’s election time! There are all sorts of things being said about international students. In particular, I see reports about the impact of international students on the accommodation sector.

Regardless of whether international students put pressure on the rental market (and there’s plenty of evidence to refute this), NEAS offers a valuable contribution. We’ve now moved into quality assurance for the homestay industry. Often forgotten or considered an option for under 18s, this sector is vibrant and presents real opportunities for a great adult student experience as they transition into life in Australia – albeit temporarily.

Homestay also plays a role in building communities and provides genuine assistance to offset the cost of living with an income to the homestay hosts. If there is any pressure on the rental market, growing the homestay sector under quality-endorsed conditions offers a sustainable solution.

How do students know they’re being placed well and will be looked after? As always, look for the NEAS tick. NEAS recently issued a media release on the topic.

You can read more here.

Apr 2025

PRESS RELEASE 

Posted on | by Silvia Loss

NEAS Tackles Housing Pressure by Providing Smarter International Student Accommodation Solutions

NEAS Australia is urging both Labor and the Coalition to adopt a more informed and practical approach to international education policy – one that not only protects Australia’s $50+ billion education export industry, but also eases housing pressures facing everyday Australians.

As the leading quality assurance body for English language teaching and international student accommodation, NEAS is already offering real solutions for quality-assured housing. Specifically designed for international students, the research-backed NEAS solution does not compete with Australian housing accessibility or affordability.

“Rather than scapegoating international students for housing shortages, when they occupy less than 6% of availability according to the Student Accommodation Council, we need to look at real, long-term solutions – and NEAS is leading the way,” said NEAS CEO Adam Kilburn. “Expanding access to formal, quality-assured homestay helps improve the student experience, and puts money in the pockets of Australian families.”

NEAS supports recent calls from the Property Council of Australia for universities to play a more active role in securing accommodation for students before they arrive. When provided to NEAS’ quality standard, these housing options offer more than just shelter – they ease the cost of living crisis for Australians and support the students’ ability to culturally adapt during their stay.

“More than 80% of international students leave the country after they finish their studies,” Kilburn said. “They’re temporary visitors – not long-term residents.”

Through its role as the leading quality assurer in student accommodation – particularly homestay – NEAS ensures offerings are safe, regulated, and beneficial for both students and Australian families.

“When done properly, homestay provides international students with vital support and cultural integration – while offering Australians a chance to host and earn an income,” Kilburn added. “It’s a win-win for Australian families, the community and international students.”

NEAS is calling on all sides of politics to invest in practical housing solutions that protect Australia’s international education reputation while helping to ease the cost of living crisis at home.

ABOUT NEAS

NEAS Australia is a leading industry-based independent quality assurance body serving the English language teaching sector and related areas, including homestay accommodation. Its quality endorsed membership extends across the country and globally into South East Asia.

CONTACT

Adam Kilburn
CEO, NEAS
a.kilburn@neas.org.au
+61 2 9055 9275

Speaker Spotlight: Building Supportive Communities for Homestay Students and EAL/D Learners

Posted on | by Silvia Loss

At the 2025 NEAS Conference, we will discover how building strong networks can improve homestay experiences and provide greater support for EAL/D students in mainstream education.

School Accommodation: Rethinking Homestay

This panel discussion will feature voices from every corner of the homestay community. Hear real stories and practical ideas on how collaboration across ELT can really enhance the international student experience.

Our experts will discuss managing risks, ensuring student safety, and finding creative ways to improve homestay programs. Come away with practical insights and new perspectives that can help you build stronger support networks and create a welcoming, inclusive environment where every student feels at home, both in the classroom and out.

David Ferguson, Director of International and Accommodation Operations, John Paul College

David Ferguson has been working in the International Education and Training (IET) industry since 2007, beginning his career as an English as a Second Language teacher. With a wealth of experience both abroad and in Australia, David leads John Paul College’s international operations and John Paul International College. Read more…

Professional Learning Teams – Creating a Supportive Community with ELT and Mainstream Teachers of EAL/D Students

In this session, discover how inclusive teaching transforms classrooms into communities where students from diverse language backgrounds can truly thrive. By blending ELT methodologies with everyday teaching practices, educators can create supportive spaces where every EAL/D student feels valued and ready for success.

You’ll come away with practical tips and strategies to boost language development, build confidence, and drive academic achievement, all while nurturing a community where every student feels at home.

Megan Huber, Assistant Head of Faculty Diverse Learning (EAL/D)/Subject Coordinator English for EAL Learners, St Laurence’s College

Megan Huber is the current Assistant Head of Faculty for Diverse Learning specialising in EAL/D Case Management and the Subject Coordinator for English for EAL Learners at St Laurence’s College in South Brisbane. She is also the current Chief Confirmer and Subject Matter Expert for English for EAL Learners for the Queensland Curriculum Assessment Authority as well as a Lead Trainer Marker for the External English Exams. Read more…

Register here

Spotlight on the 2025 NEAS Conference Panels

Posted on | by Ed Itor

The 2025 NEAS Conference will include panel discussions that bring together government regulators, and international student leaders, to share their knowledge on the changing education industry. These sessions will explore key challenges and opportunities in the sector, giving attendees a chance to hear directly from those who shape and experience it firsthand.

Government Voices Panel

In this facilitated discussion between a sample of our members and our guests from government, we will take a close look at the challenges facing the sector. Representatives from ASQA and the Tuition Protection Service (TPS) are confirmed to join us, with TEQSA participation pending confirmation. We all know that NEAS membership enhances and complements regulated compliance by embedding continuous improvement. This session will explore how we can best define and maintain quality in an environment of uncertainty and change.

Carmen Basilicata, Executive Director, Integrity Branch, ASQA

Responsible for ASQA’s Integrity Unit, Carmen overseas ASQA’s intelligence, investigations and enforcements operations to prevent and detect threats to the integrity of VET, and to deter and disrupt illegal behaviour and the exploitation of vulnerable students. Carmen is also responsible for entry to the market, ASQA’s primary function to prevent threats and safeguard the integrity of VET, as well as ASQA’s Industry, State and Territory engagement and Course Accreditation functions. Read more…

The Tuition Protection Service Director is a statutory position created under the Commonwealth legislation. Melinda is responsible for the delivery and maintenance of the long-term sustainability of the Tuition Protection Service.

Melinda has held several senior roles in the Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business, with extensive knowledge in operational policy and program management in employment services. Read more…

Melinda Hatton, Director, TPS

International Student Voices Panel

In this panel we will hear the journey of two international students from arrival to belonging, highlighting the challenges they face and the contributions they make to the community.

Ogunbodede Olaitan MD, Medical Practitioner, NSW Health

Olaitan Temitope Ogunbodede is a medical practitioner with NSW health and holds a doctoral degree in Immunology from the University of Sydney.

He arrived in Australia about half a decade ago as an international student from Nigeria on a Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade international Scholarships. Read more…

William Nguyen is a student leader, speaker and passionate advocate for international students, dedicated to fostering belonging and building inclusive communities. Arriving in Australia at 15 with no English, he understands the challenges of navigating a new country.

Now a third-year Education/Media Arts student at UNSW, he has spoken to over 7,000 people at universities and conferences, serving as an MC and guest speaker. Read more…

William Nguyen, NSW International Student Ambassador, Study NSW

Register here

Join the conversation

Excited about the 2025 NEAS Conference? So are we!

Be part of the journey by:

  • Following us on LinkedIn and Facebook for updates and sneak peeks
  • Spreading the word with #NEAS2025 #PathwaysToBelonging, and sharing our social media banners
  • Visiting neas.org.au/conference-25 for more information

See you at NEAS 2025!

Facebook

LinkedIn

News from Adam

Posted on | by Ed Itor

Welcome to the latest edition of our CEO’s column News From Adam.

I’ve just come from reading the news for the morning. There’s a lot going on. Donald Trump attracts attention; conflicts and tensions continue and here in Australia, we have an election coming up. Should we brace for change? Regardless of the actors and which party, politician or nation state holds sway, whether we agree with the direction or not, we’re always in the midst of change.

The same is true for us here at NEAS.

Rima Ibrahim, our Manager of Quality and Professional Development, has decided to move on to other things. We’re sad to see her go and we are very grateful for all the work she has done, especially during the pandemic. Many of you know Rima and I’m sure with me you wish her all the best. Go well Rima!

Here at NEAS, rather than bracing for change we’re embracing it! I have advertised The Manager Quality and Professional Development role. You can find out more about the role here. You will see that the role is very project oriented and future focused. It contributes to a packed, positive NEAS agenda all aimed at improvements for our members. Some of our member-focused initiatives include:

  • Delivering our much-loved annual Sydney conference. With its theme of belonging, NEAS commits to diversity, to inclusion and to our role in welcoming others to Australia.  We’re set to introduce you to new ideas and new people opening a new window on the world
  • Introducing a new platform making it easier for members to access their NEAS services
  • Securing a stronger member presence in Asia so that we can bring people together on the international stage
  • Reinvigorating our professional development offering 
  • Completing a review of our own performance and implementing some of the changes you have suggested.

There’s so much more to say and share with you. I could write extensively on each of the above. If you want to know more about Rima’s role or if you’d like to talk to me about any of the above, please get in touch with me.

Mar 2025

Shaping Pathways to Belonging, the 2025 NEAS Conference is Coming!

Posted on | by Ed Itor

A conference for everyone who believes in community

The NEAS 2025 Conference is more than just an industry event: it’s a gathering of people with similar interests and a celebration of belonging.
Our theme this year, “Pathways to Belonging: Our Role in Building Communities,” reminds us of the contributions that international students and migrants make to education, workplaces, and society.

Whether you work in ELICOS, AMEP, higher education, vocational training, or community-based English programs, NEAS 2025 is the conference for you!

Why attend? We have something for everyone

No matter your role in the industry, NEAS 2025 has something for everyone:

  • Sessions focused on leadership, innovation, and quality assurance in education, helping you stay navigate the complexities of our industry
  • Practical training sessions and expert-led discussions designed to introduce new teaching techniques, classroom strategies, and insights into student engagement
  • Opportunities to learn from industry experts, gain career insights, and connect with potential mentors who can guide your professional journey
  • A hub for collaboration and networking, where decision-makers come together to discuss the future of ELT

At its heart, this conference is a chance to come together as a community – to learn, share, and inspire each other.

The program is taking shape!

We are currently finalising the program, and we can’t wait to share what we have planned!

You can look forward to hearing from inspiring keynote speakers, who will share their insights on creating a sense of belonging and community, drawing on their personal experiences and their work with international students and migrants. You can also look expect sessions focused on innovation and AI, exploring their potential to transform ELT and create wider community benefits.

There will be select hands-on workshops designed to provide practical tools for educators, managers, and industry leaders, offering practical strategies and fresh perspectives.

With dedicated networking opportunities throughout, the conference will also be a hub for connection, collaboration, and meaningful discussions across the ELT sector, and beyond.

Keep an eye on our Conference Program Page for updates!

Join the conversation

Excited about the 2025 NEAS Conference? So are we!

Be part of the journey by:

  • Following us on LinkedIn and Facebook for updates and sneak peeks
  • Spreading the word with #NEAS2025 #PathwaysToBelonging, and sharing our social media banners
  • Visiting neas.org.au/conference-25 for more information

See you at NEAS 2025!

Facebook

LinkedIn

Register here

Discover what’s ahead at NEAS 2025: a space to connect and grow together

Posted on | by Ed Itor

Inspiration and Innovation

Continuing the tradition of bringing together experts, educators, and industry leaders to share ideas and encourage meaningful discussions, the 2025 NEAS Conference will explore how English Language Teaching (ELT) contributes to building strong, inclusive communities.

At the conference, we’ll consider how leadership, innovation, and quality assurance in ELT work together to influence learning outcomes and support the integration of diverse communities. While we’ll continue to explore trends like AI and its growing influence, we’ll also take a closer look at the impact of these advancements not only in the classroom but also in the broader community.

Connect and Grow

Building on the success of last year’s conference, NEAS 2025 will bring together professionals from across the ELT community. It’s a chance to share knowledge, discuss challenges, and gain a deeper understanding of the different perspectives within our sector.

This year, we focus on strengthening connections and encouraging collaboration, from education to community. The event will provide a space for improving your understanding of the industry, exploring opportunities for collaboration, and discovering new ways to work together for future growth, both personally and professionally.

Shape Your Career

The conference provides practical learning opportunities and the chance to earn CPD points​​​​​​​.

For those newer to the sector, NEAS 2025 is the perfect place to refine your skills, learn more about the industry and meet the experts driving its future. For those with more experience, this is an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, share insights, and stay up-to-date with the latest trends in ELT.

Join the conversation

Excited about the 2025 NEAS Conference? So are we!

Be part of the journey by:

  • Following us on LinkedIn and Facebook for updates and sneak peeks
  • Spreading the word with #NEAS2025 #PathwaysToBelonging, and sharing our social media banners
  • Visiting neas.org.au/conference-25 for more information

See you at NEAS 2025!

Facebook

LinkedIn

Register here

Congratulations to TAFE Queensland’s English Language Centre !

Posted on | by Ed Itor

Congratulations to TAFE Queensland’s English Language Centre on completing a successful quality review activity with NEAS.

TAFE Queensland’s English Language Centre has demonstrated a proactive approach to Workplace Health and Safety (WHS), curriculum development, and staff professional growth. The Centre has shown strong engagement with WHS protocols, including a comprehensive Master Risk Assessment that considers psychosocial risks and regular inspections led by the Principal Administrator and Facilities Manager.

In response to evolving student needs, the Centre is enhancing its EAP curriculum to align with contemporary learning requirements, ensuring students are well-prepared for further education.

The Centre’s commitment to staff development is evident in its comprehensive onboarding process and the provision of subsidised Graduate Certificate in TESOL opportunities, supporting teachers in furthering their qualifications.

February 2025

Congratulations to OziHouse Group!

Posted on | by Ed Itor

NEAS congratulates OziHouse Group on becoming its most recent quality endorsed Homestay Provider in the category of Quality Products and Services.

NEAS recognises OziHouse Group’s commitment to providing reliable accommodation for international students across New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. The organisation has demonstrated alignment with the NEAS Quality Assurance Framework – Quality Area O: Homestay Service Provider, ensuring its policies and guidelines meet established standards.

OziHouse Group provides accessible and clear information for students and hosts, including materials in multiple languages. Its streamlined online application processes contribute to an efficient and straightforward experience for all users.

The organisation has implemented effective safety measures, including thorough Working With Children and Blue Card checks, to support student wellbeing. Host families are also provided with training to help ensure a safe and welcoming environment for students. This endorsement highlights OziHouse Group’s efforts to maintain quality and care in its homestay services.

February 2025