Welcome to the EPHEA Conference 2026
Join us at Western Sydney University’s Parramatta South Campus on Darug Ngurra from 22 to 25 November 2026 for an energetic conference with the theme “Grounded in Place, Rising with Purpose: Equity in Action”. This theme provides opportunities to explore systems redesign, digital inclusion, and policy-to-practice approaches that advance equity across higher education.
The preliminary program is now available
Keynote presentations, concurrent sessions, a student panel and the EPHEA AGM — across three full days, Monday 23 to Wednesday 25 November.
The 2026 theme
Grounded in Place
Grounded in Place honours the many Aboriginal knowledges and communities across Greater Western Sydney, as well as First Nations knowledge and community across Australasia, and the connection the Burramattagal have with Darug Ngurra (Country), where the campus currently stands. In the near future, a prominent feature of the campus will be the Indigenous Centre of Excellence.
Rising with Purpose
Rising with Purpose speaks to ambition, leadership and impact — not only of equity practitioners but also of the institutions and communities they serve. It reflects a commitment to transformative change, fostering inclusive leadership and driving systemic innovation.
Equity in Action
Equity in Action invites practical, real-world strategies and innovations, while also subtly tying to Western Sydney where a number of equity programs can be seen in action.
About the conference logo
The 2026 EPHEA Conference logo represents this theme with the deep-rooted tree grounding to Ngurra (Country) and to the Indigenous knowledges that live and grow in this area. This tree also references the mangroves that are found along the Parramatta River and sustained the Burramattagal and their connection to the eel. The sunrise talks to our rising ambition and purpose.
This image also links in with plans related to the Indigenous Centre of Excellence that will stand on this Ngurra and connect Culture and Country and promote cross-cultural learning. You may also notice the Indigenous designs in the soil again referencing Darug Ngurra, and the Pasifika designs in the sky referencing the connection of First Nations people across Australasia.
About EPHEA
The Equity Practitioners in Higher Education Association (EPHEA) is the professional incorporated association for equity practitioners who work in higher education throughout Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific region.
We play an essential role in tertiary education to develop and implement affirmative action programs for students and staff, manage organisational responsibilities under anti-discrimination legislation, promote cultural change within institutions, and foster an environment which values and respects diversity.
EPHEA is run by a committed volunteer Executive Committee made up of equity practitioners from across Australia and New Zealand. The committee structure is guided by the EPHEA Constitution.
Join us in Western Sydney this November
Registrations are open for 22–25 November 2026.