11th Annual Schools Law and Regulatory Conference eBook

Schools are operating in an increasingly complex and high-risk legal environment. Legal risk now permeates every part of school governance and day-to-day operations.

The 11th Annual Schools Law and Regulatory Conference brings together Australia’s leading education lawyers to examine the real legal challenges facing schools in 2026. Across two days, the program cuts through theory to deliver practical guidance on compliance, governance, risk management and student wellbeing — tailored specifically to the school context.

Designed for principals, school leaders, board members and advisers, the conference focuses on the legal issues at the heart of school operations, helping schools understand what’s changing, what’s coming next, and how to respond with confidence.

Day 1 - Thursday 21 May 2026

Morning theme: Managing the Workplace 

• Faith, Fairness and the Law: What Anti-Discrimination Reform Means for Independent Schools
• Hidden Dangers in Plain Sight: Managing Psychosocial Hazards in the School Environment
• When Parents Become Problems: Legal Strategies For Managing Challenging Parents

Afternoon theme: Governance Challenges

• Beyond Old School Ties: Legal Duties and Governance in Today’s Schools
• AI in the Classroom: Legal Risks and Compliance for Schools
• Data in the Digital Age: Navigating Privacy Compliance in Schools

Day 2 - Friday 22 May 2026

Theme: Student Rights and Safety

• Beyond the School Gate: The Expanding Duty of Care After the T2 Decision
• Breaking Down Barriers: Disability, Discrimination and Inclusive Education - The Legal Framework for Schools
• Keeping Children Safe: Navigating Reportable Conduct and Child Safe Standards
• Critical Response Protocols: Legal Duties in Student Mental Health Crises and Self-Harm Incidents