The annual SA Schools Constitutional Convention encourages student learning about civics and citizenship, democracy, the Australian Constitution and what it means to be an Australian citizen.

About the convention

The SA Schools Constitutional Convention has been running since 1995. It's an initiative between the department and the Parliament of SA. It's supported by the Australian Government.

Students who attend will:

• learn and share their views about Australia and its Constitution
• find out how the Constitution shapes our democracy
• learn how the Constitution promotes understanding of our democratic heritage and traditions.

Students attending the SA convention will be invited to apply to attend the following year's National Schools Constitutional Convention in Canberra (travel, accommodation and meals will be provided for successful applicants).

2026 convention details

The 2026 convention will be held on Friday, 18 September 2026 at Parliament House in Adelaide.

The theme will be: Should there be a new preamble to the Constitution?

The 2026 program will include:

• presentations by expert speakers
• a Q&A panel with Members of Parliament
• group workshops
• a debate and mock referendum in the House of Assembly Chamber.

Who can attend

The convention is designed to connect across multiple curriculum areas, and is open to all year 11 students, including government, Catholic and independent schools.

Students don't need to be enrolled in or have completed any prerequisite subjects to attend.

How to nominate students to attend

Nominations are now open. To nominate students, teachers need to complete the online nomination form.

Nominations close, Friday 7 August 2026.

We encourage nominations for any year 11 student (regional and metropolitan) interested in civics and democracy. Up to 2 students from metropolitan schools and up to 4 students from regional schools can be nominated.

Consent, transportation and supervision

Individual schools are responsible for seeking parent or caregiver consent and transport arrangements. Registered teachers and staff from the Department for Education will be present, however schools are encouraged to provide supervision on the day.

Support for regional and remote students

Financial support is available for students in regional and remote locations. Email SchoolsConstitutionalConvention@sa.gov.au for further information.

Pre-convention learning

Teachers will be provided with resources and suggested learning programs to support student engagement before the convention.