Quarterly Sector Forum Abstracts & Presentation Guidelines
AbSec invites you to contribute to our 2025 Quarterly Sector Forums by submitting an abstract for consideration.
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AbSec’s Quarterly Sector Forum is more than just an event—it’s a movement towards building a future that is defined by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Whether you are a researcher, community leader, policy advocate, or practitioner, your voice can inspire innovation, drive impactful action, and contribute to stronger, healthier communities.
We are calling for dynamic presentations that challenge the status quo, spotlight success stories, and highlight solutions that align with our collective mission: a brighter future led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices.
Diversity of presenters
AbSec is committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity within its forums. We encourage submissions from a broad range of voices, including emerging leaders, grassroots organisations, and individuals with lived experience. By showcasing diverse perspectives, we aim to create richer, more meaningful discussions that reflect the breadth and depth of our communities and sector.
Make your voice heard at our Quarterly Sector Forum!
This is your opportunity to share innovative ideas, evidence-based practices, and culturally informed solutions that empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities. We look forward to your unique insights and contributions!
For questions or assistance, please contact policy@absec.org.au.
What to include:
- Session title: A concise and descriptive title for your presentation, reflecting the content and purpose of your session while appealing to the target audience.
- Session description: In 300-350 words, provide an overview of your content, its relevance, and how it aligns with the Quarterly Sector Forum theme.
- Requirements: Select the length of your presentation, your availability for a Q&A session, and any AV/tech equipment you may need.
- Key takeaways: We also ask you to highlight the specific insights, skills, or outcomes your session will deliver to support and benefit Aboriginal communities.
What kind of session will you offer?
Interactive workshop
A hands-on, practical session with active participant engagement and group activities.
Formal presentation
A focused talk or lecture-style session to share insights, research, or key learnings.
Masterclass
A session offering expert-led insights and actionable strategies that foster leadership and innovation within Aboriginal communities.
Panel discussion with Q&A
A moderated discussion featuring multiple speakers sharing diverse perspectives on a topic.
Case study presentation
A session sharing real-world examples or success stories with key takeaways.
Yarning circle
A collaborative session encouraging dialogue and shared learning among participants.
Abstract selection process
All submissions will be reviewed against the selection criteria. Successful applicants will be notified and invited to present. AbSec’s senior management will make the final decisions regarding presenters.
As part of AbSec’s commitment to cultural safety, all final presentations will be vetted by AbSec staff to ensure alignment with these protocols. If any edits or tweaks are required, you will be notified to make the necessary adjustments prior to the event. Additionally, AbSec may contact you to discuss specific aspects of your presentation to ensure it meets organisational standards and aligns with cultural and event objectives.
Cultural protocols
AbSec is committed to respecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural protocols. Please ensure that your presentation adheres to the following guidelines:
- Images and voices of deceased persons: Be mindful that the inclusion of images, names, or voices of deceased persons may cause distress to some members of the community. If your presentation includes such content, please ensure you have received appropriate permissions and provide a warning in advance.
- Cultural content: If your presentation involves traditional knowledge, stories, or cultural practices, ensure that appropriate permissions have been obtained from the custodians of that knowledge.
- Respectful representation: All content should reflect cultural sensitivity and avoid stereotypes or misrepresentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities.
Precedency
Preference will be given to abstracts that:
- Are presented or co-presented by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
- Are delivered by staff from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations.
- Are submitted by AbSec members.
- Provide evidence-based or outcome-driven insights.
- Introduce new research, practices, or progressive ideas.
- Are interactive and engaging.
- Include collaboration with young people.
Conflict of interest
To ensure transparency and maintain the integrity of the forums, we ask all presenters to disclose any potential conflicts of interest related to their presentation topic. This may include financial ties, organisational affiliations, or other interests that could influence the content of your session.
