The annual ASSA Leadership Day is one of ASSA’s flagship events, bringing together medical students from across Australasia to develop the skills needed to lead in modern surgery. Through keynote presentations, interactive sessions, and discussions with established surgeons, the event provides a unique opportunity to learn how leadership shapes surgical practice, innovation, and healthcare systems.

The 2026 Leadership Day, themed “Cultivating the Next Generation of Surgical Leaders” will be held 21 March via Zoom, commencing at 9:00am (AEDT). The program will feature keynote addresses from surgeons working at the forefront of technology, systems leadership, and global surgery. Delegates will also participate in breakout room activities designed to develop practical leadership skills, which will be judged by keynote speakers.

The day will also feature a TASMAN session introducing collaborative surgical research, including insights into leading large multicentre studies and opportunities for students to contribute to projects such as the SUGAR study. The event will conclude with a Surgical Leaders Discussion, providing delegates the opportunity to engage directly with experienced surgical leaders through an extended Q&A on leadership, career pathways, and the future of surgery.

2026 Leadership Day Timetable