The Australia Africa Universities Network (AAUN) Annual Forum and AGM 2025 will be held on 1–2 September 2025 in Perth. The Forum theme for this year is ‘Social License’ and Universities: Comparative Perspectives from Australia and Africa

A “social license” or “social license to operate” (SLO) refers to the ongoing acceptance and approval of an organization’s activities by its stakeholders and the general public, beyond what is legally required. It’s not a formal license, but rather a measure of the trust and credibility an organization builds through responsible behaviour and engagement with the community. 

This forum brings together scholars and practitioners to explore how universities engage with communities, demonstrate accountability, and build trust. The event will compare the unique challenges and strategies from both regions.

The AAUN Forum starts Africa Week, with later programs for Africa Down Under and many other organisations from 3-5 September. 

We welcome our members, colleagues and guests to join us, and other leaders in the field of Australia Africa relationships during the Africa Week between 1 – 5 September. We expect up to 100 expert participants from academia, government, diplomats, business and agencies.

Program

The AAUN Forum program (final program)

NOTE: In interests of environment and cost, there will be no printed programs.

Registration 

Please register via this link for the AAUN Australia Forum and workshops. Closing date 28 August 2025. Please note it will not be possible to register after this date.

Participants

We expect up to 100 expert participants from academia, government, diplomats, business, agencies. We are pleased to welcome guests and observers from cooperating networks and NGOs to the AAUN AGM meeting.

Host

We are grateful to Edith Cowan University and Curtin University for co-hosting the AAUN Forum, and for sponsoring part of the program. 

Australia Africa Week 1 – 5 September 2025

During Africa Week, several Australia based organisations will hold conferences, fora, seminars and workshops, building teamwork and cooperation towards 2025 and beyond.

The events through will focus on the existing challenges that Africa face and observe opportunities where Africa and Australia could initiate joint projects to influence policies to create wealth and improve quality of life in both continents.    

Africa Down Under Conference (ADU)

AAUN members are encouraged to also participate in the Africa Down Under Conference 2025 on 3-5 September. 

Registration: via this website. 
Venue: Pan Pacific Hotel, Perth
Inquiries: Angelique Julien, Paydirt Media
Email: angelique@paydirt.com.au

AAUN Conference Hotel

AAUN Conference accommodation will be at the DUXTON Hotel in Perth.

Address: 1 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000
Phone: (08) 9261 8000

To benefit from the special AAUN rate, please book your accommodation using THIS LINK 

We have negotiated a discounted rate with rooms starting at AUD $225 per night, with breakfast to be charged AUD $38 per person on consumption. 

NOTE – we strongly recommend booking early to get the best rate available.

Conference Venue

Day 1: ECU Joondalup Campus
Day 2: Duxton Hotel, Perth CBD

Taxis

A passing taxi can be signaled if their taxi roof light is on. There is a taxi rank at 140 William Street, Perth, or you may call +61 13 13 30 (Swan Taxis) or +61 13 32 22 (Black and White Cabs) to book a taxi in advance. More information available on this website.

Knowledge Partners

 

                 

Contacts

Australia Africa Universities Network (AAUN) Forum and AGM
Date: 1-2 September 2025 
Contact: A/Prof Grace Liu
Email: aaun@unsw.edu.au