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The Leadership Conference 2026: That’s a wrap!

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The Leadership Conference 2026: That’s a wrap!

3 educators standng together

'Don't apologise for being a leader. Have confidence in yourself. If you don't know how you got yourself into that position, accept that you are and that you can do it.'

– Kathy Walker

We heard from a lineup of pioneering and inspiring speakers who shared real-world learnings and practical tools for education and care professionals to take into their roles as fearless and empathetic leaders.  

A big thanks to everyone who joined us and made the day possible.

Delegates Michelle and Penelope with ITAV CEO Daniela
Panel discussion
The lucky prize winners
Bryony and Caitlin at the ITAV booth
Kathy Walker delivers her keynote
ITAV's Lucy and Kylie at the Vic Rocks booth

Here’s what some of you told us:

'I really enjoyed how practical the information provided has been. I feel inspired.'
– Amani, Director, Remus Way Children's Centre
'Love having the chance to hear from and connect with others in the [sector].'
– Stephanie, Director, KCH Community Childcare
‘Really enjoyed the presentations delivered. Very relatable and informative based on our everyday challenges.’
– Anonymous, Director, early childhood service

Let’s recap our 2026 presenters: 

  • Rachael Robertson, Antarctic expedition leader, leadership and teamwork expert
  • Kathy Walker OAM, Award-winning teaching and learning expert and author
  • Kylie Thomas, Founding and Managing Director, DreamStoneHR
  • Bryony Catlin and Kylie Seadon, It Takes A Village Professional Support Consultants
  • Linda Davison, Coordinator, Clarendon Children’s Centre
  • Our panel of expert education and care leaders, Tarryn Holland, Narelle Lawton, Annie Mok and Anthony Morris, facilitated by Catharine Hydon, Director of Hydon Consulting

Inspiring words… 

We know many attendees were inspired by what Tarryn Holland shared during our panel, ‘Is it better to be loved or feared? An age-old question for leaders’: 

‘We need to be courageous leaders. We need the courage to care and advocate… and make decisions in the moment, because it’s the right thing to do.’ 

ITAV's Lucy with conference delegates
Rachael Robertson delivers her keynote
ITAV's Pina with panel member Tarryn and colleague
Delegate Deniz and ITAV's Lucy
ITAV's Narelle with conference delegates

We hope the conference gave you the tools you need to feel braver, bolder and more empowered in your leadership.

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