Student Leaders, Office Bearers and Staff Supporting Student Associations and Clubs
25–26 November | Delivered alongside SENCON 2026
New for 2026, SEN is offering a dedicated Governance Training program designed specifically for student leaders, office bearers and staff who support student associations and clubs.
Aligned to the SENCON 2026 theme Belong, this program opens the SENCON experience to student leaders who may not typically attend the conference, creating an opportunity for boards, student representatives, university staff and sector professionals to connect, learn and contribute together.
This is a unique opportunity to build capability, confidence and networks, while becoming part of the national conversation about the future of student organisations and student experience.
About the Governance Training Program
This program aligns with CPRG Out of the Boardinary (OOTB) governance training, a hands-on course designed specifically for students elected to the board, council, senate, or committee of their student union, student guild, or student association.
Delivered by CPRG, this two-day immersive program builds practical governance capability for student leaders and the staff who support them.
The program focuses on real-world governance, equipping participants with the knowledge, tools and confidence to govern effectively and make meaningful contributions in their roles.
The program has been developed specifically for the student organisation environment and reflects the governance, financial management and risk environment that student associations operate within today.
Why This Program Matters
Strong governance is critical to the success and sustainability of student organisations. Universities and student organisations are operating in an increasingly complex environment, particularly following changes to the Higher Education Support Act, which require at least 40% of SSAF revenue to be allocated to independent, student-led organisations.
With this funding comes increased responsibility and accountability. Student boards and leaders must be equipped to manage funding responsibly, make strategic decisions and govern in the best interests of students.
This program has been designed to:
● Build governance capability in student leaders
● Support effective and accountable use of SSAF funding
● Strengthen collaboration between universities and student organisations
● Prepare student leaders for the responsibilities of board and committee roles
● Connect student leaders with the broader student experience sector Subjects Covered The program is practical and interactive, focusing on real governance challenges and scenarios.
Subjects include:
● Governance Foundations and Board Readiness
● Strategic Thinking and Long-Term Planning
● Financial Management and SSAF Accountability
● Risk Management and Conflict Navigation
● Advocacy, Relationships and Influence
Inclusions
● Two-day Governance Training Program (Tuesday–Wednesday)
● Morning tea, lunch and networking with SENCON delegates
● Opportunity to connect with student leaders, university staff and sector professionals from across Australia
This integrated model allows participants to learn, connect and then step into the broader sector conversation, bringing student leadership and operational perspectives together in line with the Belong theme.
Who Should Attend
This program is designed for:
● Student Board Members
● Student Council / Senate Members
● Club and Society Committee Members
● Student Association Office Bearers
● Student Engagement and Student Life Staff
● University staff who support student organisations
Universities are encouraged to send their student leadership teams together to build shared capability and a common understanding of governance roles and responsibilities.
Group Bookings
Contact CPR Group for group discounts for your whole leadership team.
Email: info@cprgroup.com.au
