Prime Highlights
- IEAA has opened nominations for its 2026 Excellence Awards, recognising achievements in international education.
- The awards will honour excellence across seven categories, including leadership, innovation and research.
Key Facts
- The International Education Association of Australia (IEAA) is a professional body representing the international education sector in Australia.
- Winners will be announced at the Australian International Education Conference 2026 in Sydney in late October.
Background
Nominations have opened for the International Education Association of Australia (IEAA) Excellence Awards 2026, inviting the sector to recognise individuals and teams that have made significant contributions to international education through leadership, innovation, research and best practices.
Now in its seventeenth year, the awards highlight achievements across Australia’s international education community and celebrate efforts that improve learning experiences, student support and institutional performance.
The nomination process comes at a time when the sector continues to adapt to changing visa regulations, student allocation measures, global uncertainty and the growing influence of artificial intelligence.
IEAA President Professor Ren Yi said Australia’s international education community continues to play an important role globally. He noted that despite ongoing challenges, the country remains a leading destination for international education and continues to support future professionals and leaders from around the world.
The awards also recognise the work of educators, researchers, support staff and administrators whose initiatives have helped improve student wellbeing, inclusion, employability, engagement and international mobility. Many previous award-winning projects have focused on creating stronger outcomes for students both during and after their studies.
IEAA Chief Executive Officer Phil Honeywood said periods of disruption often create opportunities for leadership and innovation. He stated that current challenges facing the sector can encourage new ideas and positive change.
The 2026 awards will be presented across seven categories, including Best Practice, Distinguished Contribution, Innovation, Leadership, Professional Commentary, Outstanding Postgraduate Thesis and the Tony Adams Rising Star Award.
Winners will be announced during the Australian International Education Conference 2026, scheduled to take place in Sydney in late October. Most nominations must be submitted by an IEAA member, while the Outstanding Postgraduate Thesis category remains open to nominations from any source.
