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NEXTgen
Standards Australia’s NEXTgen Program selects emerging industry and technical experts and provides them with an exciting opportunity to become involved in the national and international standardisation processes supporting Australian industry and government.
Through the program, participants will access training and gain direct exposure to the standards development process and context. They will attend and participate in webinars, meetings, and professional development activities in Sydney and Melbourne. Emerging leaders will share knowledge and collaborate, developing a deep understanding of what it takes to shape robust standards that contribute net benefit to the Australian community. Participants will create a valuable network of key Australian stakeholders and peers across industry sectors.
The goal of the program is to support the future of standards development through investing in the next generation of standards leaders and experts. Program participants gain the necessary skills to further increase their involvement in standardisation and contribute to the development of important standards in their field.
2027 NEXTgen Program
Thank you for your interest in the 2027 NEXTgen Program, Standards Australia's leading professional development initiative. Please note that this is an Expression of Interest (EOI) form and not an application.
Should you have any questions regarding the program, please email NEXTgen@standards.org.au. We look forward to receiving your EOI and potentially welcoming you to NEXTgen.
What can you gain from the program?
- An in-depth understanding of the standardisation process
- Developing the necessary skills to be an effective technical committee member
- Identifying professional development opportunities
- Hearing from nominating organisations and establishing networks
- Joining the accomplished community of program alumni
- Active participation in the proposal process
How much does it cost to be involved with the NEXTgen Program?
There is no charge to join the NEXTgen Program. If you are travelling interstate to attend in-person trainings in Sydney, please refer to the FAQs below to learn more about travel allowances.
NEXTgen Program Information
For more information, see NEXTgen program information (PDF).
How do we choose the NEXTgen?
To be eligible, applicants should:
- Reside in Australia
- Have an active, professional interest in standardisation. This can be demonstrated, for example, by participating in standards development or working for an organisation that actively uses standards
- Commit to attending all scheduled events
- Be able to attend a minimum of three committee meetings
- Be committed for the duration of the program, with a view to continued involvement in standardisation
- Be supported by your employer to participate in program activities
FAQs
What is changing in the NEXTgen Program for 2027?
How many participants will be selected in 2027?
If I am not from Sydney or Melbourne, can I choose which cohort I join?
If I am applying from interstate, what are the travel allowances for the in-person trainings in Sydney?
Travel allowances are paid per event as follows:
- WA and NT: $950 per trip
- VIC, SA, ACT, TAS and QLD: $500 per trip
- Rural NSW: $150 per trip
The allowance is intended to help cover travel and accommodation costs associated with attending the program’s in-person events.
Will the program experience differ between Sydney and Melbourne?
Will both cohorts start and finish at the same time?
Will there be opportunities to connect across both cohorts?
Can the travel allowances be paid to my employer instead of me if they are willingto cover my travel initially?
What makes a prime applicant for the NEXTgen Program?
Is there a maximum age limit for joining NEXTgen?
If you have significant standards and industry experience, such as 15+ years, and wish to join a standards development committee, please contact sem@standards.org.au
How much experience do I need to apply?
Is the program open to all industries?
When will I know the outcome of my application?
What does the program involve?
Are sessions in-person or online?
What is the expected time commitment for the program?
How often are sessions held?
Are sessions scheduled during business hours or after hours?
Is attendance mandatory for all sessions?
What happens if I miss a session?
What will I gain from participating?
Will I be able to build my professional network?
What happens after the program ends?
Testimonials
Emma Bentton
"The NEXTgen program is unlike any training out there: practical, applied, and addressing both the soft skills and technical understanding needed to develop standards. Whether you want to leverage your extensive technical knowledge or learn how to contribute effectively, this program will arm you with the skills and insights to become a valuable member of future committees and transform your expertise into powerful contributions.”
Tim Cannell
"The NEXTgen program emphasised the vital importance of standards in society and the critical role committee members play in safeguarding the public by developing effective standards. I was deeply impressed by the extensive knowledge and professionalism exhibited by the committee members within the committees I observed. It was inspiring to see a community of volunteers dedicating their time towards the greater good."