Program Focus & Content Design

The Annual Outdoors Victoria Conference program is designed to reflect the breadth, depth and evolving nature of the outdoor education and outdoor recreation sector. Each year, the program brings together teachers, outdoor educators, guides, activity providers, recreation leaders, academics, researchers, policy makers and those new to the profession, creating a space where diverse perspectives and practical experience intersect.

Historically, the program has been shaped to balance research and theory with real-world application. It aims to provide:

• Practical strategies and tools that educators and providers can immediately apply in schools and programs
• Evidence-informed insights from current research and sector innovation
• Opportunities to explore emerging trends, challenges and policy directions
• Professional growth and career development pathways
• Conversations that strengthen inclusion, cultural understanding and community connection
• Leadership, facilitation and risk management capabilities
• Environmental stewardship and nature-based learning approaches

We intentionally curate content that supports practitioners at every career stage from pre-service teachers and early-career instructors to experienced leaders and organisational decision-makers.

Presenters are encouraged to contribute sessions that are thoughtful, relevant, forward-focused and grounded in experience or evidence. Whether sharing case studies, research findings, innovative practice, reflective insights or practical frameworks, the goal is to equip attendees with meaningful takeaways that strengthen both individual practice and the broader sector.

The 2026 conference program will again be shaped by up to 17 Topic Tracks, supported by Audience Tags to help attendees navigate and select sessions most relevant to their interests and roles.

Audience Tags and Topic Tracks will be clearly displayed in the conference agenda to support filtering and session selection.

Audience Tags

• Outdoor Activity, Recreation and Camp Providers
• State Activity Peaks, Clubs and Community Groups
• Outdoor Educators
• Outdoor leaders, guides, practitioners, coordinators
• Emerging professionals – Uni/TAFE students, trainees and recent graduates

Content Tracks

• Adventure Therapy & Wellbeing
• Outdoor Education Curriculum (Early Years – Year 10)
• Disability Inclusion, Diversity & Community
• Experiential Education
• Indigenous Peoples’ Perspectives
• Insights, Research & Best Practice
• Leadership & Facilitation
• Nature & Climate Action
• Nature-Based Learning & Nature Connection
• VCE Outdoor Education & Environmental Studies
• Outdoor Programs
• Outdoor Recreation & Adventure
• Policy & Governance
• Professional Growth & Career Pathways
• Risk & Resilience
• Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship
• Technology & Innovation