Professional Development 2026
CISWA has a comprehensive Professional Development (PD) Program consisting of Sessions, Workshops + Seminars, along with our Annual Conference, designed to educate, inform and provide staff who work with international students the opportunity to network with peers.
The sessions are attended by people working within the international education sector from a wide range of educational institutions including higher education, VET, government and non-government schools.
All workshop attendees can request a Certificate of Participation which demonstrates their ongoing Professional Development in International education.
2025 Professional Development Workshops
In 2025, CISWA delivered a diverse program of professional development workshops and webinars, supporting practitioners across the international education sector in Western Australia. The program reflected key sector priorities, with sessions designed to be practical, informative and responsive to emerging challenges and opportunities.
Our in-person workshops were complemented by a strong webinar series, which was well attended and well received by participants across institutions and roles. Feedback highlighted the relevance of the content, the quality of presenters and the value of being able to engage with sector expertise in a flexible online format.
Together, the 2025 workshops and webinars provided valuable opportunities for learning, discussion and connection, and reinforced CISWA’s commitment to supporting professional practice and collaboration across the international education community.
COMING UP IN 2026
PD PROGRAM 2026| WORKSHOPS
COST | Members: $150 pp | Non-members: $250 pp (half day workshops only)
2026 Professional Development Series
In-Person half-day workshops:
March | International Education Overview
Perfect for staff new to the international education sector or those returning after a break, this session offers a comprehensive introduction to the industry’s dynamics. Participants will develop a deeper understanding of the sector’s vital role within Australia’s education and industry frameworks. With insights from experienced professionals, you’ll gain practical knowledge to navigate the complexities of this ever-evolving field confidently. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your expertise and broaden your perspective—register now!
📢 Presenters:
🎤 Alicia Woods – Manager, International Engagement, TAFE International Western Australia (TIWA)
🎤 Celia Cornwell – President, CISWA; International Higher Education freelancer
🎤 Richard Geddes – Managing Director, Optimal Student Recruitment
Members price: $150 TBC
Non-Members: $250 TBC
Complimentary Tickets Available for Gold & Silver CISWA Members
📅 Thursday, 19th March
⏰ 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
🏫 Conference room
Canning College Marquis St Bentley 6102
Registrations closed!
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April | Introduction to International Education Compliance and Regulation
This workshop provides participants with a general overview of the key legislative and regulatory requirements affecting education providers.
📢 Presenters:
🎤 Dr Fleur van den Heuvel – Head of Admissions – Australia –
🎤 Ms Irine Mjombah -Director of Marketing and Admissions at Edith Cowan College
Members price: $150
Non-Members: $250
Complimentary Tickets Available for Gold & Silver CISWA Members
📅 Thursday, 16th April
⏰ 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
🏫 Conference room
Canning College Marquis St Bentley 6102
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May | Online Seminars
Thursday 7th May | International Students, Visas, and Post-Study Work rights
This seminar will provide the latest update on visa options and pathways for international students.
Presenter: Sarah Frankel | Head of Knowledge | Lawyer | Accredited Specialist in Immigration Law
Thursday 21st May | WA Police Force: Enhancing International Student Safety and Trust
This session equips participants with practical insights into community safety, cybercrime, and family and domestic violence, helping them support international students, build trust, and make effective referrals to police and community services.
Presenter: WA Police Force’s Cultural Engagement and Events Division (CEED)
June | Online Seminar
Thursday 11th June | Co-Designing Student Onboarding for Gen Z and Gen Alpha
This workshop explores co-designing onboarding with international student leaders, building intercultural micro-communities, and blending digital engagement with on-campus belonging to create future-focused orientations that connect, engage, and endure beyond week one.
Presenter: TBC
2nd Semester Professional Development TBC
Contact info@ciswa.com if you have any questions!
Hear from our participants:
“It was worthwhile, engaging and enjoyable.” (Introduction to International Education, 2025)
“The session was informative and closely aligned with current compliance responsibilities and challenges.” (Introduction to International Education Compliance, Regulations & Migration Strategy, 2025)
“Linda is passionate and extremely knowledgeable. She kept us engaged the entire day.” (Intercultural Competence for International Education: Deep Dive, 2025)
“I really appreciated how each presenter focused on specific areas that were relevant and valuable to all participants.” (Focus On – Working Effectively with Students and Institutions from Vietnam 2025)
“It’s a great opportunity to find out about the different initiatives and to build connections with colleagues across different institutions.” (Fostering Community Connections, 2025)
“The 2025 conference was perfectly planned, with an engaging format, excellent presentations from employers and students, and a welcoming venue and catering. Hearing students share their journeys was particularly insightful, reminding participants of the challenges of arriving in a new country and inspiring action to support international students.” (2025 Annual Conference – summarised comment)
