Beyond Connectivity: Securing the Future of Research & Education. This year’s Annual Report theme highlights AARNet’s role in not just hosting Australia’s research and education data, but protecting it and empowering its users. Built on reliable infrastructure with cybersecurity at its core, AARNet supports the secure flow of knowledge across borders and centres.

Driven by AARNet’s mission to empower people through connection, our design for this year’s annual report layers abstract graphics with realistic imagery to portray human interaction. The brand guidelines inspire a system of coloured modular blocks which weave through these visuals to represent the flow of data and the complex systems that support collaboration in research, education, and innovation.

“Working with the talented design team at This is Ikon on our annual report was a fantastic experience again this year. They brought fresh ideas and a strong sense of visual storytelling to the project. Their attention to detail and thoughtful design choices helped us tell our story in a way that truly reflects our organisation’s values and impact. The final result is polished, engaging, and true to who we are — we couldn’t be happier.”

Jane Gilford, AARNet Director, Marketing & Communications