The Christian Schools National Business Conference is a biennial gathering of Christian school business leaders from across Australia. For more than two decades those involved in all aspects of the ‘business’ of Christian schools, board members, business managers, those involved in administration, marketing, finance, HR or IT have gathered together for professional learning and fellowship. 

In 2026, the  conference will be held on the Gold Coast.  Come and join with peers from across the whole Christian schools sector. We encourage all school business leaders to come, as well as emerging and aspiring leaders, for a time of inspiration, growth and challenge. 

Please note that this event is being held in QLD time (AEST).

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Conference Details

Date

28 to 30 October 2026

Venue

QT Hotel, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise
The venue, QT Gold Coast is located in the heart of Surfers Paradise and is within walking distance to Cavill Avenue, restaurants, cafés and the iconic Surfers Paradise Beach. The hotel is approximately 23 kilometres from Gold Coast Airport, with a travel time of around 25 to 30 minutes by car. Delegates can also access the hotel via public transport using the 777 airport bus and tram services.
Special event accommodation rates are available through the registration process.

Event Information

The conference will commence in the morning on Wednesday and conclude at lunchtime on the Friday. An overview of the program is outlined below and can also be downloaded here.

  • Wednesday, 28 October: Conference Day 1 (program commences with morning tea at 10am)
  • Thursday, 29 October: Conference Day 2
  • Friday, 30 October: Conference Day 3 (program concludes with lunch, approx 12:30pm)

About the Conference

Empowering People, Flourishing Schools

The Christian Schools National Business Conference brings together the leaders and professionals who strengthen the operational heart of Christian schools.

Under the theme Empowered People, Flourishing Schools, this year’s conference will equip and inspire Business Managers, HR professionals, Finance Managers, IT leaders, Board members, and school executives to navigate the growing complexities of people, governance, and organisational leadership within Christian education

As the regulatory and workforce landscape continues to evolve, we will explore the practical challenges and opportunities shaping Christian school communities, from workforce strategy and compliance to culture, leadership, and staff wellbeing. Attendees will gain insight into navigating complex IR matters, strengthening HR practices, and fostering environments where staff are supported to thrive.

More than a professional development event, the conference is a space for meaningful connection, shared wisdom, and encouragement among leaders committed to seeing Christian schools flourish. Join colleagues from across the country for a conference designed to strengthen the people and organisational leadership of Christian schools.

Registration Types

Registration types and prices (inc GST) are listed below:

  • Full Event (including dinner): $895
  • Full Event for 2 or more (incl. dinner): $855 p/p
  • Full Event (regional/small school): $855
  • Dinner Additional Ticket: $155

Register

2026 Speakers and Session Information

The 2026 Christian Schools National Business Conference will see a wonderful line-up of speakers, some of which are highlighted, below. There will also be a range of workshops with focus on HR/IR and business/financial management.

Fleur Johnston

Founder and CEO, Peoplebench

Fleur’s experience in senior leadership roles in Government over 20 years taught her a thing or two about resilience! With a background in psychology and a career... [read more]

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Peter Irvine

CEO, Kingdom Momentum

A passionate speaker, author, and marketplace leader, Peter is committed to helping people connect faith with everyday life and discover God’s purpose for them... [read more]

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Trent Saunders

Senior Economist, Commonwealth Bank

Trent has over 15 years of experience delivering economic and market insights to diverse audiences across the public and private sectors... [read more]

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Mark Sneddon

Director, Sneddon Legal

Mark is a lawyer, advocate and compliance and policy consultant with over 30 years’ experience in human rights and discrimination law, commercial, fintech... [read more]

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John Lyndon

CEO, Christian Community Ministries

John’s Christian education journey commenced in 1980 with Maranatha Christian School in South Australia, transferring to the Northern Territory in his role as... [read more]

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Dr. Daniel Pampuch

CEO, Christian Schools Australia

Daniel has over 25 years’ experience in Christian Education. He has oversight over CSA’s strategic direction, political advocacy, research, resource and program... [read more]

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Workshop 1A: 

Workshop 1B:

Workshop 1C:

QT Hotel, Surfers Paradise - Location & Parking Details

The QT Hotel, Surfers Paradise is located in the heart of Surfers Paradise at No. 7 Staghorn Avenue. Delegates travelling locally or from Brisbane will find convenient onsite parking available at the venue, with both undercover self-parking and valet parking options available for hotel guests and conference attendees (fees apply). The hotel is easily accessible via the M1, making it a straightforward drive of approximately 1 hour from Brisbane, depending on traffic. There are also several nearby public parking options within walking distance of the hotel for delegates preferring alternative parking arrangements.


Qualify for CPD Hours

Attendees may qualify for up to 15 hours of structured CPD depending upon the requirement of your applicable professional body. A certificate of professional learning will be issued to all attendees shortly after the conclusion of the event.


Cancellation Policy

Please refer to the cancellation policy included in the registration process.



Register

Registration closes Monday, 28 September 2026 (if not sold out prior)

Thank you to our sponsors

This event is sponsored by a range of sponsors to whom we are very grateful:

Platinum Sponsors

Dinner Sponsor

Premium Sponsors

Major Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Supporting Sponsor