APIGA.au
APIGA Australia is dedicated to developing the next generation of Australian youth leaders in the internet and digital ecosystem.
auDA's next Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy Australia (APIGA Australia) takes place over 10-12 February 2026 in Melbourne. The event brings together participants aged 18-35 for a three-day intensive program to engage in practical global discussions about governance of the internet.
Internet governance refers to the development and application by governments, the private sector, the technical community, academia and civil society, of shared principles, norms, rules and decision-making procedures that shape how the internet evolves and is used. It encompasses the policies and frameworks that govern how people, institutions, and societies access, use, and are impacted by the internet as a global resource.
Highlights from 2024
APIGA Australia 2024 video recap.
About the Program
APIGA Australia is an immersive three-day program, featuring interactive sessions and dedicated mentoring from Australian and Asia-Pacific industry experts. Attendees have the opportunity to build a strong network with peers, APIGA alumni, leading APAC organisations that provide internet naming and numbering services, policymakers and key community leaders in the Asia-Pacific region. The program supports attendees to develop strong foundation in the following areas:
- Internet governance and the multi-stakeholder model: Understanding the fundamental principles and processes underlying the inclusive multi-stakeholder approach to internet governance and policy making.
- Global and regional internet governance issues: Gaining insights into current global internet governance challenges and learning how to engage with these issues at local and regional levels.
- Effective communication: Building the confidence to articulate ideas and participate in discussions at regional and international forums.
APIGA Australia is modeled on the Asia Pacific program by the Korean Internet Security Agency (KISA) and the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) in collaboration with regional organisations including the Asia Pacific Network Information Centre (APNIC), DotAsia Organisation, and the Internet Society (ISOC).
To ensure accessibility, there is no cost to attend APIGA Australia. All selected participants will receive a fellowship to cover travel, accommodation and meal expenses.
APIGA Australia offers attendees an exceptional opportunity to engage with and learn from renowned experts in the field of internet governance. Top participants at APIGA Australia will receive a fully funded fellowship to attend the renowned APIGA program in South Korea to expand their understanding of this subject matter in an international environment.
Eligibility
APIGA Australia is open to individuals aged 18–35 from diverse backgrounds – whether technical or non-technical.
Applicants must either be Australian residents or citizens of Pacific Island countries or territories (not including New Zealand) and living or working in the region.
APIGA Australia will provide full fellowships to all selected applicants, covering travel, meals and accommodation.
Key features
The program covered a wide range of activities and topics, including cyber security, digital policy, domain name systems, and much more:
- Expert-led sessions: From distinguished speakers and experts in internet governance from Australia and around the globe
- Interactive workshops: Designed to deepen understanding and skills in various aspects of the internet’s operation and governance
- Networking opportunities: Connect with like-minded peers, industry leaders, and policy-makers to build valuable relationships
- All-inclusive experience: Travel, accommodation and meals will be covered by auDA, ensuring you can focus entirely on the experience.
APIGA Australia is designed for students and early career professionals with experience in the internet environment, aged 18-35 from diverse academic and career backgrounds. We encourage those with a keen interest in internet governance to apply.
Learn about the basics of internet governance
What is multi-stakeholder internet governance? - Explainer
auDA's contribution to multi-stakeholder internet governance - CCO Sophie Mitchell