13 & 14 February 2026
2026 APS College of Educational & Developmental
Psychologists Conference
Rydges Hotel Melbourne
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.
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
EARLY BIRD REGISTRATIONS
Register before Friday 10th October and SAVE 30%
Use code CEDPBOOKNOW30 when registering. Available until Friday 10th October.
APS Member
Full Price $790
$553
CEDP College Member
Full Price $680
$476
APS Student*
Full Price $300
$300
*Discount not applicable to student registrations.
Non Member
Full Price $900
$630
IN-PERSON | Access Catering Social events Additional guest tickets can be purchased for the Welcome Reception through this registration form for $150 AUD per ticket. All prices are listed in Australian Dollars (AUD) and include the Australian Goods and Services Tax (GST). Please review the Attendee Terms and Conditions before completing your registration. |
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
ATTENDEE FAQ
What is the Conference?
Who is the conference for?
This event is ideal for:
- Psychologists and therapists
- Health and allied health professionals
- Educators and school staff
- Researchers and academics
- Psychology students
- Anyone with a professional or academic interest in psychology
Why attend?
- Discover how psychology can empower learners and strengthen communities
- Gain insights from cutting-edge research and practical strategies
- Engage in collaborative discussions and problem-solving
- Network with leaders in the field and like-minded peers
- Leave inspired with tools to create meaningful change
Speaker bios, session details, and topics are available in the Conference Program, which can be accessed via the Conference mobile app and website.
Yes, slides and other supporting materials will be shared through the app and online platform. If not available, the presenter has opted not to share.
Are the sessions being recorded?
No, sessions will not be recorded or made available on-demand.
Will there be networking opportunities?
Yes. You can connect with peers during breaks, at the Welcome Reception on Friday, and while visiting our range of exhibitors showcasing organisations and services from across the psychology profession.
Do I need to pre-book sessions?
No pre-booking is required. You’re free to attend any session and move between rooms throughout the day.
Will printed programs be available?
No, in line with APS’ sustainability goals, printed programs will not be provided. The full program will be accessible via the Conference mobile app and live program website.
What is the Conference mobile app?
The app, provided in your pre-arrival email, allows you to:
- Update your profile
- View the program and build your agenda
- Access presenter and exhibitor info
- Download presentation resources
- Connect with other attendees
Need help? Visit the APS stand or speak to one of our friendly volunteers.
Is the program CPD approved?
Yes. The full program qualifies for [TBC] hours of CPD.
For more information, visit the Psychology Board of Australia.
What happens after I register?
Once you’ve registered and paid, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Closer to the event, we’ll send pre-arrival information, including how to access the mobile app and onsite tips.
Will catering be provided?
Yes, catering is included as follows:
Friday 13 February: Arrival lunch, afternoon tea, and Welcome Reception
Saturday 14 February: Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea
Where is the conference located?
Rydges Melbourne 186 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC
What are the parking options?
On-site
- Secure Parking – Rydges Melbourne Car Park (open 6am–midnight)
Nearby
- Secure Parking – 59 Lonsdale Street (wheelchair accessible)
- Wilson Parking – 180 Russell Street
What are the transport options?
Trams: Routes 16, 6, and 86 stop nearby
Trains: Parliament Station (Hurstbridge & Mernda lines) is a short walk
Buses: Routes 250, 251, 605, 905, and 907 service the area
Plan your trip at ptv.vic.gov.au
Will there be a cloakroom?
Yes, a self-serve cloakroom will be available. Please avoid leaving valuables, as APS is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
What should I wear?
Business casual is recommended. As the venue is air-conditioned, consider bringing a light jacket or scarf for comfort.
Who can I contact for more information?
For any questions, please contact us at conferences@psychology.org.au or visit the APS Stand during the event.
© Copyright 2025 Australian Psychological Society