SABEL HDR Conference

The SABEL HDR Conference is a Faculty-wide initiative designed to showcase the breadth and quality of Higher Degree Research across SABEL, and to provide candidates with opportunities to present their work, receive feedback, and connect with peers.

The conference brings together HDR candidates from across the Schools of Social Sciences, Arts, Business, Education, and Law, creating a perfect space for interdisciplinary exchange and engagement.

About the Conference

The SABEL HDR Conference is intended to support candidates at all stages of candidature. Whether you are developing your research project, presenting emerging findings, or reflecting on completed work, the conference provides a supportive environment to share your research.

As a student-led event, the conference is shaped by HDR candidates themselves, with a strong focus on collaboration and community-building.

Participation in the conference contributes to the broader expectation that HDR candidates present their research regularly throughout candidature.

Conference Dates and Location
The inaugural SABEL HDR Conference will be held on 8–10 September 2026, during the mid-semester break. The conference will take place at the Parramatta City Campus (1PSQ), providing a central and easily accessible venue for candidates and supervisors across the Faculty.
Conference Organising Team

The SABEL HDR Conference is a student-led initiative, delivered by a Student Organising Committee that plays a central role in shaping the design, structure, and delivery of the event. The 2026 committee comprises:

  • Valentina Marie Schulte (Chair)
  • Danielle McInness (Conference Program Manager)
  • Sushmita Dawadi (Conference Day Manager)
  • Hugo Borbilas (Marketing and Communications Manager)
  • Restaria Hutabarat (Conference Secretary)
  • Scott Davis (Technology Manager and Certificate & Awards Director)
  • Yutong Zhang (Creative Director)
  • Mikee Federizo (Treasurer and Operations Manager)

The committee is supported by two Academic Convenors, Dr Michael Lwin (School of Business) and Dr Adam Daniel (School of Arts), who provide guidance and support to ensure the successful delivery of the conference while maintaining its student-led focus.

The conference is also supported by two Research and HDR Officers, Rinu Mathew and Natalie Du, who provide operational and administrative support to the Organising Committee, assisting with planning, logistics, communications, and event delivery.

What to Expect

The conference will include opportunities for HDR candidates to:

  • Present their research to a Faculty-wide audience
  • Receive constructive feedback from peers and academic staff
  • Engage with research across different disciplines
  • Develop presentation and communication skills

The event also aims to strengthen the SABEL HDR research community and foster connections across Schools.

Getting Involved

Opportunities to participate in the SABEL HDR Conference, including calls for abstracts, will be circulated via School and Faculty communications.

HDR candidates at all stages are strongly encouraged to get involved.

Further Information
If you would like to find out more, please email SABEL-HDRConference@westernsydney.edu.au