Thank you to all who attended the National Gallery of Victoria for the Visual Communication Victoria Annual Conference! It was a delight to be surrounded by the associations community of dedicated VCD teachers, supportive sponsors, guests and industry professionals. With growing discourse regarding the various pressures impacting arts and design education in Australia, our theme for the 2026 conference felt particularly pertinant. 

VISCON26 - Design Education Matters, explored the significant role of design education in supporting future generations to meaningfully contribute to the development of sustainable future lifestyles and systems. We considered the shifting roles, knowledge and skills required of both designers and teachers, as technology advances. Our line-up of presenters provided diverse perspectives on the theme. Including Professor Dan Hill, the Director of the University of Melbourne, Melbourne School of Design, Simon Burgin of Sensory Pixel, experienced teachers Jacinta Patterson, James Taylor, Jade Karp and NGV curator Suzy Annetta. 

"Coming away feeling inspired is always a wonderful element after a PD and visiting VISCON26 had just that effect!" - Survey respondent