Collaboration and Innovation at the ADF Payments Forum 

The third annual ADF Payments Forum recently brought together finance teams, business managers and school leaders from across the education sector for a valuable day of connection, insight and shared learning at The Sebel Brisbane. 

The forum provided an opportunity for attendees to explore the evolving payments landscape, discuss emerging trends and challenges, and share practical experiences shaping the future of payment solutions in education. 

As digital payment technologies continue to evolve rapidly, discussions throughout the day centred on the importance of adaptability, security and collaboration in delivering solutions that meet the changing needs of schools and families. 

ADF Executive Manager Megan Liddell said the forum continues to play an important role in strengthening relationships across the sector and ensuring the ADF remains responsive to the needs of education communities. 

“The conversations throughout the day reinforced the importance of collaboration, shared insight and staying adaptable in a rapidly evolving landscape,” Megan added. 

“Hearing directly from finance teams, business managers and school leaders helps shape the future direction of the ADF and ensures we continue delivering solutions that meet the real needs of schools and education providers.” 

A key focus of the event was navigating the next wave of digital payment innovation. Conversations explored how schools can enhance payment acceptance, streamline processes, strengthen security and improve operational efficiency while continuing to support positive family experiences. 

The forum highlighted the strength of the ADF’s long-standing partnership with the Commonwealth Bank, which has spanned more than 25 years. 

Rochelle Eldridge, General Manager/Crew Leader Cards and Loyalty lead the CBA contingent sharing insights into emerging banking technologies, tailored merchant payment solutions, digital banking enhancements and the importance of proactive support in helping education providers respond confidently to change. 

Our attendees also heard from our industry partners delivering specialised solutions for the education sector. 

Anthony McCausland, CEO and Founder at Feesable, explored how purpose-built fee management technology is helping Australian independent schools respond to evolving parent expectations and deliver more transparent, flexible and family-friendly payment experiences. 

Lucy Richards, Director of Account Management for Inlogik presented insights into the growing importance of intelligent expense management solutions, highlighting the role technology can play in improving visibility, efficiency and governance across school operations. 

Throughout the forum, open discussion, thoughtful questions and the sharing of real-world experiences reinforced the importance of collaboration in shaping future solutions for the sector. 

“We’re excited to continue building on the momentum from the forum and working together to support the future of payments in education,” Megan Liddell shared. 

The ADF looks forward to continuing to partner with education communities to deliver innovative, secure and future-ready payment solutions that support both schools and families.