About Us
The Australian Crisis Simulation Summit (ACSS) is a national student-run and led, volunteer organisation headquartered at the Australian National University (ANU). The ACSS creates complex crisis simulations that aim to challenge the next generation of Australian National Security leaders.
Since 2020, the ACSS has provided the opportunity for over 200 students to not only participate in immersive and challenging crisis simulations but also to foster invaluable connections between themselves, industry professionals, academics, and employers.
The ACSS was founded as an innovative student-led initiative generously supported by the ANU and its academics. In 2025, we aim to build upon the legacy of the ACSS and further establish our organisation has Australia’s premier student-led national security conference.
In 2025, the Summit will be held between the 1st and 4th of September.
Summit Week 2025 will feature two full-day crisis simulations, alongside two days of workshops and panels with industry and academic professionals, networking opportunities, and more!
In 2025, the ACSS is proud to launch its Alumni Network. As an important initiative designed to foster ongoing engagement and professional development for past delegates, this network will offer valuable membership opportunities, access to exclusive industry events, and a platform to stay connected to previous delegates and mentors.
Our focus this year is to continue our founding goal of fostering the next generation of national security leaders, particularly focusing on expanding our national outreach. Each year, we have witnessed the emergence of competent, compassionate, and courageous leadership among the next generation of Australian National Security Leaders.
Our crisis simulations are the culmination of months of effort from our team, aiming to create complex and realistic simulations. Our simulations showcase the intricacies of a whole government operation and cross-department collaboration efforts when responding crises at a domestic and regional level.
In supporting our realistic simulations, delegates participate in the simulations through purpose-built software, navigating news articles, social media, and a constant news live-stream (our Summit Broadcasting Corporation, or SBC). Delegates are exposed to the realities of working collaboratively within Australia’s national security sector, gaining invaluable practical experience, transferable skills, and the passion for a future career in national security.