8:45AM

REGISTRATIONS OPEN

Please make your way to the Magdalen Laundry Space at Abbotsford Convent. Parking is available on site, and signage will guide you from the main gate.You can find details about getting to the convent here.

9:15AM

CONFERENCE BEGINS

CONFERENCE WELCOME

9:30AM

9:45AM

KEYNOTE: JAN KHAN

11:15AM

MORNING TEA

50 YEARS OF LEARNING

This panel discussion will bring together leaders in the sector to discuss how refuges have evolved in terms of diversity and inclusion, accessibility, and best-practice service delivery over the last 50 years. We will hear stories from first days of the Women's Liberation Halfway House, and celebrate the groundbreaking women who forged the way for decades of women to follow.

10:00AM

PANEL

HOW I FOUND MY POWER: A YANA STORY

11:45AM

12:00PM

PANEL

2:15PM

WORKSHOP

3:45PM

PERFORMANCE

5:15PM

CONFERENCE THANKS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

GLOBAL CRISIS, LOCAL IMPACT: HOW LOCAL REFUGES MUST ADAPT TO SUPPORT DIVERSE CLIENTS

In this session we will explore how refuges can best support women from refugee and migrant backgrounds, who represent a growing majority of clients. We will discuss how we can better assist clients who are on temporary visas, or who may be experiencing visa abuse. Hear from experts, academics, and those working in the field as we delve into this important topic.

1:15PM

LUNCH

ENVISIONING THE IDEAL REFUGE IN 2025

Breakout workshops will invite participants to collaboratively explore what defines an ideal refuge in 2025. Discussions will focus on key features of the physical environment, essential design considerations, and the refuge's relationship with the broader community. These interactive sessions are designed to foster meaningful dialogue, idea sharing, and creative brainstorming in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

We will return from workshop and share outcomes with the group

3:15PM

WORKSHOP DISCUSSION

A special performance by singer, author and disability advocate Eliza Hull will acknowledge women who have lost their lives to family violence this year, and celebrate the strength and resilience of women.

HOW TO FIND HOPE: LOOKING FORWARD, TOGETHER

With the rising popularity of online figures like Andrew Tate and news of extreme cases such as Dominique Pelicot, it can be difficult not to despair. In this session join advocates as we discuss the power of hope, and how to find it.

4:00PM

PANEL

CONFERENCE CLOSE

5:30PM