Career Catalyst: graduate industry accelerator program

I was thrilled to see students immerse themselves in building the professional capabilities sought by employers in our Career Catalyst event both in Melbourne and Sydney. This marked the successful completion of Phase 2 of our Medibank-funded initiative - one I first envisioned in late 2024 to address the real and persistent challenges faced by international students navigating the Australian job market.

The event was structured around four key pillars: AI and digital confidence; critical thinking and problem-solving; teamwork and communication; and alumni/industry insight and professional networks.

What truly brought these events to life was the generosity of an extraordinary community of volunteers who gave their time freely, with no obligation and no expectation of reward.

Heartfelt thanks to Susan Cullen and Cathy Liu from our sponsor Medibank for their shared values and belief in creating meaningful pathways for students, and to Yasminka Nemet from Microsoft for their unwavering support and commitment to student success.

To ACU's leadership and service team members - Prof. David Smith, Prof. Phil Parker, Bronwyn Bartsch, Sarah O'Connor, Martin Evans, Prof. Myriam Amielh, Alison Owens, Susan Brooman-Jones, Agatha Ang, Kathryn Williams, James Brereton, Samantha Sullivan, Jacob Dyer, and Maria Cindric - thank you for removing barriers and extending your support for this event.

Special recognition to Heather Summers, Tuan Chau and Debbie Crumpton, who consistently went above and beyond – behind the scenes work.

To our Melbourne alumni and industry volunteers - Phoebe Buckley, Aurelle Pinto, Irine Prasad, Kaushaya Ganguly, James Bannan, Susmita Mathew, Natalie Arendale, Jon Morecroft, and Vi Pham - your insights sparked genuine energy in the room.

To our Sydney alumni and industry volunteers - Aye Thant, Stephen Ioannidis, Emily Ginis, Mohammad Rahmati, Simran Jaggi, Kevin Dang, Machi Varanasi, Georgie Drury, Vicki Leaver, and Pallavi Sinha - students left that room inspired, and that is entirely because of you.

The closing feedback from students made one thing abundantly clear: the alumni and industry sessions were the highlight of both events. This is what purpose-driven collaboration looks like.

To every academic colleague who stepped in - this event was designed to benefit you too. Connecting with industry practitioners, witnessing student potential firsthand, and building cross-sector relationships are career-defining moments. Thank you for showing up and taking that opportunity.

To all students - congratulations. Your engagement and curiosity were visible throughout.

Bhavani Sridharan, Associate Dean, Learning & Teaching and Accreditation