Disability advocates often operate quietly, initiating projects and forming community networks that significantly benefit people with disabilities. These initiatives include research projects focused on specific disabilities, community service linkage networks that enhance access to support services, and funded projects that build the capacity of individuals with disabilities in their advocacy journeys.
In anticipation of once in a lifetime disability reform in Australia, this year’s conference theme focuses on the impact of disability advocacy within local communities, showcasing successful projects, community networks, and strategies that improve access to services and empower people with disabilities. It highlights the importance of person-centered disability advocacy, collaboration, and the sharing of best practices to create positive change and build capacity in communities.
We invite submissions for conference abstracts that explore the work of disability advocates within local communities. We are particularly interested in hearing about:
- Successful projects or programs that have had a meaningful impact on people with disabilities.
- Innovative approaches to building community connections and creating seamless access to services.
- Lessons learned from advocacy efforts that can inform the practices of other organisations striving to provide person-centered advocacy.
We welcome contributions from your organisations that share insights, challenges, and best practices for advancing advocacy and empowering people with disabilities. This is an opportunity to showcase effective strategies, promote knowledge exchange, and inspire others to strengthen or innovate in their own advocacy efforts.
Requirements
- Abstracts are due by COB Friday 28th February 2025
- Each session is one hour long, inclusive of question-and-answer time with the audience.
- For the abstract, please submit a paragraph and session title, no more than 500 words, that describes your session content.
- Describe the type of session you are planning- you can choose from a panel session, presentation, workshop or other.
- The names, title and organisations of the presenters that you plan to involve in your session.
- Send your abstracts to: [email protected]
Strengthening Disability Advocacy Conference 2025 details
When: Thursday 18th September 2025, 10am-4pm.
Where: The Arena, NAB, 700 Bourke Street Melbourne.
Theme: Disability Advocacy Showcase: Impacts of Advocacy in local communities.
Note: If your abstract is successful, we will be in touch with you by Friday 21st March 2025 to request the bios and photos of all presenters and discuss the session timing and plan further.