The 2025 AAIR Annual Forum has come to a close, and what an exceptional gathering it was! This year, we welcomed 82 delegates, speakers, and sponsors from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Japan, and the United States, creating a vibrant and diverse community of higher education professionals.

Our theme, “From Beach to Benchmark – Surfing the Institutional Research Wave,” perfectly captured the dynamic nature of institutional research and inspired rich discussions throughout the event. Held at Rydges Gold Coast Airport, with Pre-Forum Workshops and Special Interest Groups hosted at Southern Cross University’s Gold Coast Campus, the Forum provided an engaging mix of presentations, interactive sessions, and networking opportunities.

Highlights included:

• Keynote Speakers:
  • Professor Renaud Joannes-Boyau, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), Southern Cross University
  • Theresa Mitchell, 2026 NSW Local Hero, Australian of the Year & Founder of Agape Outreach Inc
• Panel Discussion with:
  • Professor Amy Cutter-Mackenzie-Knowles, Executive Dean, Faculty of Education, Southern Cross University
  • Professor Erica Wilson, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic Innovation), Southern Cross University
  • Eva Seidel, Associate Director, IDS Research & Education Engagement & Success, Flinders University, AAIR President

Delegates explored innovative practices, shared challenges, and developed strategies to shape the future of institutional research. The program featured diverse presentation formats, including Quick Round Presentations, Oral Presentations, and Workshops, all aligned to our subthemes such as Strategic Swells, Sunshine and Surveys, and Dashboards and Data.

We also enjoyed a fantastic Forum Dinner at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Homestead, where delegates connected in a relaxed and unique setting surrounded by the beauty of the Gold Coast.

We extend our sincere thanks to our sponsors, Explorance and Social Research Centre for their invaluable contributions, and to all participants for making this Forum a truly enriching experience.

As the premier institutional research event in Australasia, the AAIR Forum continues to provide a platform for learning, collaboration, and professional growth.

We look forward to seeing you at the 2026 AAIR Annual Forum!

The AAIR Executive Committee