The 2023 NSW Aboriginal Child & Family Conference, themed ‘Healing our Sector’ was a resounding success, bringing together industry leaders, practitioners, and community members to address the pressing issues facing our sector today.
The focus of this year’s conference was twofold: to involve Aboriginal youth, families, and communities in developing services and systemic change, and to perform an industry health check. This theme resonated deeply with attendees as it provided a platform to discuss methods of self-care and improvement amidst unprecedented change, upheaval, and environmental challenges.
Involving Aboriginal youth and families: Participants explored innovative strategies for engaging Aboriginal youth, families, and communities in the development of services and policies. The emphasis was on collaborative approaches that respect and incorporate cultural knowledge and practices.
Industry health check: The conference provided a safe space for sector professionals to voice their concerns and discuss methods of self-care. This was crucial for addressing the mental and emotional well-being of those working tirelessly to support Aboriginal children and families.
Sharing best practices: Attendees had the opportunity to learn from each other’s experiences, sharing best practices that have proven effective in different contexts. This exchange of knowledge was invaluable for setting future directions and improving outcomes for Aboriginal children and families.
Celebrating achievements: The conference celebrated the remarkable achievements within the sector, highlighting successful programs and initiatives that have made a positive impact on the community.
Latest research developments: The conference showcased the latest research in developing Aboriginal-led and culturally informed evidence-based frameworks. These developments are crucial for creating effective, sustainable services and policies.
System change: Strategies for involving Aboriginal youth, families, and communities in policy development were highlighted as essential for achieving systemic change. The goal is to create a system that is responsive to the needs and aspirations of Aboriginal people.
The discussions and insights gained at the conference have set a clear path for future directions. The focus will be on delivering better outcomes for Aboriginal children, young people, and their families through culturally informed, evidence-based frameworks and models.
2023 Conference
The 2023 Conference was held at the iconic ICC Sydney, located in Darling Harbour, Sydney. The ICC Sydney stands and operates on Gomora, the land of the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation.
ICC Sydney is positioned on the waterfront, near Cockle Bay and Tumbalong Park. It features multiple public access points, with the option of visiting the precinct via walking or various transport options including road, light rail, train, and ferry. As Australia’s first fully-integrated convention, exhibition, and entertainment centre, ICC Sydney underscores Sydney’s status as one of the world’s most desirable business meeting destinations.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the participants, speakers, and organisers who contributed to the success of the 2023 NSW Aboriginal Child & Family Conference. Your dedication and commitment to the cause are truly inspiring.
Thank you to our 2023 sponsors and exhibitors
202e Conference
Lakkari Pitt is a proud Gamilaroi Ularoi yinarr from Walgett, NSW. Lakkari’s art is a take on the knowledge that her Elders and significant people in her life have passed down throughout generations. Lakkari’s art explores the movement, essence and stories of Country.
“To heal ourselves is to heal our future. The central meeting place represents us connecting and learning from each other. Our communities heal when we share common interests linked to a vision of our shared future.
“This artwork explores the connection First Nations’ people have with our skies, waterways, land and each other; walking in the footsteps of our Ancestors.”
Aboriginal Carer Support
Aboriginal Carer Support
Child Protection Helpline
Child Protection Helpline
AbSec would like to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we will meet to discuss important matters, the Mulgoa clan of the Dharug Nation. We pay our respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
AbSec acknowledges the Stolen Generations who never came home and the ongoing impact of government policy and practice on Aboriginal children, young people and families.
