13 & 14 February 2026
2026 APS College of Educational & Developmental
Psychologists Conference
Rydges Hotel Melbourne
WHY ATTEND THE
2026 APS College of Educational & Developmental Psychologists Conference
SHAPING THE FUTURE THROUGH
ASSESSMENT
Innovations in psychological, educational and diagnostic assessment to enhance precision, inclusivity, and impact.
LEARNING
Breakthroughs in learning methodologies, cognitive development, and the integration of technology to foster meaningful growth and engagement.
WELLBEING
Cutting-edge strategies and systemic interventions to promote mental health, resilience, and holistic wellbeing across diverse populations.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Full program coming soon.
Dr Ahona Guha
Dr Ahona Guha is a clinical and forensic psychologist, author, and media contributor. She works with trauma survivors in private practice and with individuals who have engaged in harmful behaviours in public forensic mental health. Her books Reclaim (2023) and Life Skills for a Broken World (2024) explore trauma, healing, and resilience.
KEYNOTE: The School-to-Prison Pipeline – Understanding Youth Offending
Dr Guha will examine how early school disengagement, neurodivergence, and social disadvantage contribute to youth offending. Drawing on clinical experience and forensic research, she will highlight the importance of early intervention, restorative practices, and educational support in preventing involvement in the justice system.
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand pathways to youth antisocial behaviour
- Identify key risk factors, including school disengagement
- Explore effective interventions for young offenders
Professor Pamela Snow
Pamela Snow is Professor of Cognitive Psychology at La Trobe University and Co-Director of the Science of Language and Reading (SOLAR) Lab. A registered psychologist and former speech-language pathologist, she has led extensive research into language and literacy as protective factors in childhood and adolescence, particularly for high-risk groups. Her work has shaped national education policy and professional development for thousands of educators.
KEYNOTE: Collaborating to Prevent Learning Difficulties – Public Health Thinking in Action
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand historical and policy influences on reading instruction
- Explore contemporary frameworks for identifying and supporting struggling learners
- Recognise the role of allied health professionals in literacy development
WORKSHOP: Demystifying the English Writing System
This workshop will unpack the structure of the English writing system, challenging the myth of its “chaotic” nature. Participants will explore the historical roots of spelling and pronunciation, and learn how morphology and etymology inform spelling conventions. The session will equip educators and allied health professionals with tools to teach explicitly and assess literacy difficulties more accurately.
Learning Outcomes:
- Gain insight into the history and structure of English spelling
- Understand morphemes as the smallest units of meaning
- Apply linguistic knowledge to support literacy instruction and assessment
Dr Georgia Pavlopoulou
Dr Georgia Pavlopoulou is an Associate Professor in Developmental Psychology and Mental Health in Neurodiversity, a certified psychotherapist, and Director of GRRAND (Group for Research in Relationships and Neurodiversity). She led the UK NHS-funded National Mental Health Programme (2021–2025), improving services for autistic individuals across diverse settings. With over 20 years of experience, she champions neurodivergent-led approaches in clinical and educational contexts.
KEYNOTE: Understanding Regulation and Reducing Depression Risk in Autistic and ADHD Youth – Whose Deficit?
Learning Outcomes:
- Identify key emotional triggers in autistic and ADHD youth
- Understand how school environments affect emotional wellbeing
- Recognise the role of relational and environmental support
- Apply insights from RE-STAR to inclusive, youth-informed practices
ACCOMODATION OFFERS
Our carefully-curated accommodation offers are all conveniently located amongst Melbourne's best shopping, dining, and entertainment precincts.
With a focus on quality, comfort and security, these hotels offer a range of price points to suit every budget.
Rydges Melbourne CBD Conference Venue
1. Select room, dates and number of guests, then click BOOK NOW
3. Click I HAVE A CODE and use
CORPORATE ID: CONFRM24
4. Click UPDATE BOOKING to view your special rate.
Pullman Melbourne City Centre
10 minute walk from the conference venue, use the below codes to secure your special rate.
CLIENT CODE: SCP1786073
ACCESS CODE: AU831AU751
Marriott Melbourne Hotel
2 minute walk from the conference venue, call Reservations and quote APS to receive 10% off the best available rate.
Reservations
+61 3 9662 3900
EXHIBIT
Showcase your brand, and connect with a thriving community of psychology professionals.
As a sponsor or exhibitor at an APS event, you'll be aligning your brand with Australia's peak body for Psychology, along with embracing the opportunity to share your innovations, products, and services with key decision makers and psychologists at all stages of their career journey.
Demonstrate your support for the role psychology, and psychologists play in supporting our communities to have positive mental health, elevate your brand presence, and be a part of advancing the field of psychology.
2026 EXHIBITORS
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