Our Mission
The Australian Crisis Simulation Summit (ACSS) is Australia’s premier student-led national security conference, hosted at the Australian National University (ANU).
Through immersive, high-stakes simulations, we challenge and develop the next generation of Australian national security leaders - equipping them with the experience, insight, and networks to shape the nation’s future.
Our Story
Founded in 2020 as a bold student initiative at ANU, the ACSS began with a vision to bring practical and immersive simulations to emerging student leaders across the country. With support from academics, professionals, and government partners, the Summit continues to grow since its inception.
Since our founding, over 400 students have participated in our simulations, gaining real-world experience and forming invaluable connections with professionals in the national security space.
Our Vision
To be Australia’s leading platform for practical national security education and engagement - creating future leaders who are informed, capable, collaborative, and crisis-ready.
What We Do
At the ACSS, we design and deliver complex, high-pressure crisis simulations that are the result of months of hard work and planning from our student team. These scenarios replicate national crises at both domestic and regional levels, requiring delegates to step into the shoes of government departments and private actors to respond with the speed and coordination of a real-world crisis team.
To support this immersive experience,
delegates use custom-built software that integrates:
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Live news channel from our in-house Summit Broadcasting Corporation (SBC)
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Real-time newsfeeds, dynamic social media streams, and intelligence updates
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Interactive communication between teams via custom-built software
Delegates emerge from the ACSS with:
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First-hand insight into Australia’s national security processes
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Transferable leadership and analytical skills
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A network of peers and mentors
FEATURED IN
Freya, 2023 Delegate
“Being a delegate was an experience that allowed me to meet like minded peers and network with industry professionals. Overall, it was a great experience which any interested student should take part in!”
Amandine, 2022 Delegate
"The ACSS was a great way for me to practice my teamwork skills and ability to stay calm under pressure in a realistic environment. I loved getting to work with our simulation software, and learning from lead academics and professionals in the security field”
Caitlin, 2023 Delegate
“The ACSS developed my collaboration skills and pushed me outside my comfort zone; being in a realistic setting with great mentorship gave me a unique opportunity to understand and develop the skills needed to work in similar high-pressure environments.”