What is the Australia-China Emerging Leaders’ Summit (ACELS)?

ACELS is the Australia-China Youth Association’s (ACYA) signature event, and a key platform to unite and enrich a new generation of Australia-China literate leaders. Over 3 days, delegates will be exposed to a wide range of issues in the Australia-China space, engaging with industry leaders and experienced professionals at the forefront of their fields.

ACELS 18 “Innovating Resilience: Beijing and Beyond” will be held from the 10th July - 13th July 2025. The Summit will bring together delegates from Australia and China to discuss the multifaceted bilateral relationship. Through presentations, workshops, and seminars, participants will deepen their understanding of the dynamic region, and partake in cross-cultural dialogue.

How will Delegates be selected?

In our selection process, we aim to recruit a diverse group of delegates from a range of disciplines at the forefront of the Australia-China space. We are looking for delegates who are interested in the Australia-China relationship and emulate the Summit’s theme and vision.

Why should I attend the Summit?

This year, the summit is being held in Beijing, China. Delegates will have the opportunity to connect and build friendships with young professionals, industry leaders and fellow delegates through networking, social, and cultural events this time in China. They will also be exposed to the most topical, pressing, and innovative topics in the Australia-China space.

What is the application process?

Fill out and submit an application form before the final deadline 11.59 pm AEST, 22nd of May 2024.
Applicants will receive an outcome by mid-June 2025 Successful applicants must accept the offer within 5 days and pay the Delegate Fee. The Delegate Fee is $200 AUD.
Closer to the date of the Summit, delegates will be sent a form to provide further details (including any dietary requirements) so we can ensure your experience is as smooth as possible.

Who is eligible to apply?

Anyone who is:

Between the ages of 18 and 35 (inclusive)
Able to attend the Summit in Beijing, China from the 10th July 2025 - 13th July 2025
Currently an undergraduate or postgraduate student, or a young professional
Able to demonstrate a keen interest in the relationship between Australia and China

Please note that previous involvement with ACYA is NOT a prerequisite to attend ACELS 18 Beijing.

When will I be notified of the application outcome?

Applicants will be notified by mid-June of the outcome of their application.

I have been waitlisted for the Summit. What happens now?

After the registration deadline has passed for accepted delegates, we will notify waitlisted delegates if there are still positions available.

Do I need to speak English to attend?

As ACELS will be primarily conducted in English, delegates should possess a certain level of listening and speaking skills in English to participate fully in the Summit.

Do I need to speak Chinese to attend?

ACELS will be held predominantly in English, and whilst previous Chinese language experience is an asset, it is not a requirement for attendance.

How much does ACELS cost?

The ACELS 18 Delegate Fee is $200 AUD.

What will my delegate fee be used for?

The Delegate Fee covers:

Delegate’s accommodation and most meals for the duration of the Summit
Access to Summit workshops, seminars and networking events
Professional group and individual photography and videography

The Delegate Fee does not cover:

Travel costs to and from the Summit (including to and from the airport)
Visa Costs
Additional snacks and drinks

I live in Beijing, can I stay at home (instead of the provided accommodation)?

Delegates are expected to stay with the group. This will allow you to make the most of the ACELS experience, by getting to know other delegates and attending any impromptu social events. While you may choose to stay at an alternative accommodation, please note that the delegate fee is a fixed amount and cannot be discounted if you choose not to stay at the accommodation provided.

What are the accommodation arrangements?

The ACELS 18 Project Team is in the process of finalising the accommodation location. Details will be provided to successful delegates closer to the Summit. Rooms will be twin-share and gender segregated wherever possible. If you have any sharing preferences, please contact us at delegates_acels@acya.org.au to see if suitable arrangements can be made. Delegates who prefer to stay in a single room will be required to cover the additional costs.

Are there scholarships available?

No, unfortunately due to the high costs of ACELS this year, we will not be offering equity scholarships.

What will the ACELS 18 program include?

ACELS 18 will feature an intensive 3 day program of workshops, panel discussions, speaker events and networking. These sessions will focus on different areas:

Bilateral Economic Outlook
Education Connections
Artificial Intelligence
Social Media
The Green Transition

The Summit schedule will be supplemented by networking, social, and cultural events.

Do I need to prepare for the Summit?

Although not required, we recommend that you do some personal research on some topical themes in the Australia-China space. We will also provide resources to delegates in the lead up to the Summit, as well as information on the speakers and presenters, which will help you to start thinking about key questions and issues.

What should I wear to ACELS?

Delegates are required to wear business casual during seminars, panels, workshops, and networking events. Beijing weather in July would be around 22℃ to 32℃, please prepare suitable clothes.

Where can I find the Privacy Policy, Terms and Conditions, and Welfare Policy for the Summit?

The ACELS Privacy Policy, Terms and Conditions, and Welfare Policy can be accessed by emailing us at delegates_acels@acya.org.au.

What if I have other questions?

If you have any other questions, please feel free to get in touch with us at delegates_acels@acya.org.au.

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