Steward Leadership Edge 2026: Shaping What's Next For Australian Leaders

Running a business in Australia today comes with complex challenges. You’re juggling an expanding list of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) requirements, from reducing carbon emissions and building workforce diversity to driving community engagement and ethical leadership. On top of that, you’re navigating shifting capital markets, demanding customers and supply chains, changing workforce expectations, and ongoing geopolitical and climate disruptions.

Despite over US$40 trillion invested globally in ESG funds, progress on environmental and social challenges remains slow, widening the gap between expectations and results. ESG is no longer just about doing the right thing, it’s a strategic tool for risk management, competitive advantage, and sustainable growth. Ignoring it can increase costs, limit financing, and erode brand trust, while a strategic approach can secure better funding, attract top talent, enhance resilience, and protect long-term profitability.

Today’s successful organisations share a common approach: they maximise profit by maximising purpose. They treat ESG challenges as opportunities to innovate, differentiate, and lead. Achieving this requires a shift from traditional leadership models to Steward Leadership, a values based approach that delivers win-win-win outcomes for business, society, and the environment.

Co-delivered by Rajeev Peshawaria, CEO of Stewardship Asia Centre, and with experts from Australian business and Deakin Business School, the Steward Leadership program is a practical, intensive leadership program that equips leaders to:

• Turn ESG obligations into strategic growth advantages.
• Embed integrated thinking to meet Australian governance requirements.
• Build leadership resilience in volatile, uncertain markets.
• Activate the Steward Leadership Compass© to optimise profit with purpose.
• Drive impactful outcomes for all stakeholders.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the program, you will be able to:

• Apply practical tools to integrate ESG into your business strategy.
• Redefine your leadership approach to meet current business and market realities.
• Connect personal and organisational Leadership Energy to sustain momentum.
• Implement purpose led strategies that create measurable impact.
• Build a culture that improves retention, innovation, and stakeholder trust.

Event Details

The program is made up of four days.

Two face-to-face session at Deakin Downtown:

• Day 1 (23rd February - Monday) : 9:00am - 5:00pm
• Day 2 (24th February - Tuesday) : 9:00am - 5:00pm

Two online sessions:

• Day 3 (16th March - Monday): 6pm to 9pm
• Day 4 (27th April - Monday): 6pm to 9pm

Recognition of Prior Learning
Participants who successfully complete the program, including passing the two optional assessments are eligible to receive one elective credit toward Deakin University’s Master of Business Administration or Graduate Certificate in Business Administration. This provides a valuable pathway for further academic and professional advancement.

Who Should Attend

The program is suitable for board directors, C-Suite Leaders, business leaders and business owners who wish to challenge their own thinking and create more sustainable growth for their organisations.

Refund Policy

Payment of fees for The Steward Leadership Edge is done upon registration. GST is included in the advertised price. If your circumstances change, you can apply for a refund:

• you will have up until 30 days before the program commencement for a full refund.
• Cancellations received within 30 days but at least 7 days out from the the Program commencing will receive a 50% refund.
• Cancellations within 7 days of the Program commencing will receive no refund.
• Deakin University may cancel The Steward Leadership Edge for administrative reasons; if so, you will be provided with a full refund.

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