Welcome to NAEN 2026
Ayers Rock Resort, Uluru, 27 - 29 May 2026
The National Apprentice Employment Network 2026 National Conference (NAEN 2026) will take place at the iconic Ayers Rock Resort, located in the heart of Australia's Red Centre and just moments from the majestic Uluru, from 27 - 29 May 2026. With the theme "Skills in the Heart", the conference will be informative and engaging, delivering a diverse range of speakers and presenters across vitally important topics for the vocational education and training (VET) sector.
Delegates will hear from experts from industry, government, academia and the training sector, as well as some of the country’s top thinkers and commentators. This will be a significant event for all those involved in the engagement and employment of apprentices and trainees, as well as for the many organisations and individuals who support them.
We look forward to welcoming you to Uluru for NAEN 2026 in May.
Conference Countdown
Why Join Us At NAEN 2026
The key event in the vocational education and training (VET) sector, NAEN 2026 is the major national gathering for the group training network. It brings together the many government agencies, public and private training providers, employment providers and industry professionals that lead the way in apprentice and trainee employment across the country.
Our previous national conference was held in 2025 in Brisbane, Queensland. For 2026, we are very excited to bring delegates to Uluru, Northern Territory.
Strong attendance is expected from:
- CEOs, Managers and field officers of GTOs
- Chairs and Directors of the Boards of GTOs
- State, Territory and Commonwealth government representatives
- Representatives of Jobs and Skills Councils
- Registered Training Organisations, including TAFEs and private training providers
- Employer and industry organisations
The national conference is the highlight of the National Apprentice Employment Network professional calendar and an important networking opportunity for the industry.
Hear about the experiences of previous NAEN conference attendees
"The event brought people together exceptionally well, creating a space for genuine networking and reconnecting with others across the sector, which is always valuable. The speakers were engaging and highly relevant to the challenges we face on the ground. It was a great opportunity to connect, share ideas, and continue important conversations across the VET and employment space. "
"The speakers on the last day were
amazing. The most interesting subject matter I have ever seen at a conference."
"Amazing variety of speakers and panels."
"The panels worked really well, in particular the Championing Women's Equality at Work."
"I found the sessions on female empowerment valuable, as this is something we are trying to implement more in the workplace, so it was interesting to see what others were doing"
"Opportunities to network during breaks. Life member presentations. Some panel discussions AI section with Claire Field and the panel with female apprentices."
Keep an eye on the latest information and upcoming news about the NAEN Conference.
- Latest program
- Registration
- Partnership & Exhibition
Welcome from CEO
This special event is a celebration of the incredible work being done across the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector to support Australia’s apprentices and trainees. Together, we’ll explore ways to shape the future of skills and training in a world that’s changing faster than ever.
The National Apprentice Employment Network (NAEN) proudly represents the largest employer network of apprentices and trainees in Australia. Through the group training model, our Group Training Organisations (GTOs) have opened doors for over one million apprentices since the 1970s, creating opportunities that transform lives and strengthen communities. This work wouldn’t be possible without the collaboration of dedicated industry stakeholders, businesses, trainers, government representatives, and supporters like you.
This year’s theme, ‘Skills in the Heart’, reflects the shared journey we’re on to ensure apprentices and trainees are equipped for tomorrow’s challenges. We’re thrilled to host this year’s conference in Uluru, where we’ll gather for inspiring conversations, meaningful connections, and a chance to celebrate the achievements of our sector.
We’d love you to be part of this exciting event. We’d love to see you at NAEN 2026 and gain unique opportunities to connect with key stakeholders and showcase your own important role in this vital sector. Together, we can build a brighter future, and we can’t wait to welcome you to Uluru.
Dianne Dayhew
CEO, National Apprentice Employment Network
Frequently Asked Questions
Get fast answers to your most pressing questions about NAEN 2026
Q: How do I register for the NAEN conference?
You can register online via the conference website under the “Registration” tab. Simply complete the online form and follow the payment instructions.
Q: What payment methods are accepted?
We accept credit card payments (Visa, Mastercard, AMEX) and bank transfers.
Q: How can I book accommodation?
You can book accommodation during the registration process or by contacting Conlog at NAEN@conlog.com.au
.
Q: When will the detailed program be available?
A program structure is available under the Program tab; however, the detailed program will be available closer to the conference.