2024 NSW
12 Tuesday - 14 Thursday November
Western Sydney Conference Centre
Join us on as we meet on the beautiful land of the Mulgoa Clan of the Dharug Nation for the 2024 NSW Aboriginal Child and Family Conference. Hosted by AbSec, the conference will be a comprehensive three-day event dedicated to those working with and for Aboriginal children, young people and families.
The AbSec Conference promises a multidimensional experience for its attendees, combining educational sessions, practical workshops, cultural performances and ample opportunities for networking and celebration, all aimed at advancing the cause of Aboriginal children, young people and their families in a supportive community environment.
A key purpose of the conference is to bring Aboriginal people together so we can speak freely about the various challenges we face and discuss possible solutions. We will only reach a favourable outcome when Aboriginal communities are empowered to design, deliver and oversee the various services that are required by our children and families. We need to decide what is in the best interest of our young people, then present a united front to the governments and other agencies as we demand those results. Government needs to be transformed so it is culturally safe for Aboriginal children and families.
This year’s conference will foster understanding and empowerment within this vital community through:
Each day of the conference offers a series of sessions, led by experts and thought leaders, focusing on themes central to the welfare and growth of Aboriginal children and families. These sessions will provide insights into cultural safety, family empowerment and community-led initiatives.
Workshops will be an integral part of the conference, offering hands-on experiences and practical learning opportunities for professionals, caregivers and community leaders. These interactive sessions are aimed at enhancing skills and knowledge in areas crucial for supporting Aboriginal families and children.
Cultural performances will punctuate the event, showcasing the rich heritage and diversity of Aboriginal communities. These performances are not only entertaining but also serve as a powerful medium for cultural expression and storytelling.
Starting with welcome drinks on the first day, attendees to connect and share experiences in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The highlight of the conference is the gala dinner and awards ceremony, a celebratory evening honouring achievements and contributions in the field of Aboriginal child and family welfare.
2024 Conference
The goal of this year’s theme is to elevate voices, bridge histories and shape futures. This was chosen because we stand at an important crossroads in the relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and the rest of Australia. Last year’s failed referendum was a significant blow and the question many of us now ask is, where do we go from here and how do we get there?
2024 Conference
The Western Sydney Conference Centre adjoins the Pullman Sydney Penrith, a new luxury five-star hotel that opened last year.
Heavily inspired by Aboriginal themes, the fluid shape of the building reflects the nearby Nepean River, while the polished metal ceiling panels across the underside of the roof represent the way sunlight reflects upon the water’s surface. The garden is filled with mostly native plant species. A prominent First Nations sculpture tells the story of the river’s importance as a food source to the local Dharug people.
Chief Executive Officer, Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency
Chancellors Postdoctoral Indigenous Research Principal, Jumbunna Institute of Indigenous Education and Research
Actor, Author, Teenager, Young Advocate for First Nations Justice and Education Reform
Deputy Chair, Commissioner Yoorrook Justice Commission
Chief Executive Officer, SNAICC – National Voice for our Children
Chief Executive Officer, AbSec
Scientia Senior Research Fellow at the Social Policy Research Centre, UNSW Sydney
Author, Founder, Director
NSW Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services
Managing Director, Indigenous Psychological Services
First Nations Performance Audit Team Leader, Audit Office of NSW
Secretary, NSW Department of Communities and Justice
Thank you to our 2024 sponsors and exhibitors
2024 Conference
This year’s artwork “Truth-telling” is by Jasmine Andrews, a proud Wiradjuri woman and an accomplished artist. At 21 years old, she is also a devoted mother to a beautiful little girl. Born and raised in Western Sydney on Dharug land, Jasmine continues to live and work in this vibrant community.
Jasmine envisions a future where all Aboriginal young people and children feel confident and comfortable sharing their culture. This starts freely sharing stories, traumas, and hardships. By doing so, future generations can gain the courage and knowledge necessary to decide their path forward.
Tickets are limited. Secure yours now!
Don’t miss this opportunity to attend sessions, workshops, and performances by leading experts. Network and contribute to critical discussions in our field.
Frequently asked questions
Whether you’re travelling by car, taxi or public transport we have outlined the best route to take here.
Complimentary parking is available throughout the precinct, including dedicated undercover parking for the conference centre and hotel.
For those staying at Pullman Sydney Penrith, you can access parking upon check–in.
To ensure your stay is comfortable and convenient, we have partnered with two excellent hotels near the conference venue. Both options offer special rates for AbSec Conference attendees. View the options here.
On arrival, please present yourself at the registration desk where you can collect your lanyard and name badge.
Our conference offers unique networking opportunities. Take the opportunity to connect with presenters and attendees with welcome drinks on the first evening of the conference.
Join us for the Gala Dinner and Awards Night on day two, where you can network in a relaxed setting and enjoy live performances, including an unforgettable showcase from ARIA-nominated Kamilaroi/Tongan artist David Leha, also known as Radical Son.
Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to hear from our inspiring keynote speaker, Dujuan Hoosan, an Arrernte/Garrwa advocate whose voice has reached the United Nations. These events provide memorable moments to build relationships and strengthen our shared vision.
Attendees of the conference are encouraged to use the Warami Community Centre room as a breakout area throughout the three days. This space offers a screen for online meetings, power outlets to charge your electronics, and peace and quiet for those needing timeout.
Help us spread the word! Use our official event hashtag #AbSecConference2024 on social media to share your experiences and connect with attendees online.
Delegates are required to follow all health and safety guidelines and protocols as directed by AbSec and the venue. If you feel unwell, please stay home to ensure the safety of all attendees.
The venue is fully accessible. If you have any specific needs or require assistance, please let us know in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate and ensure your experience is seamless.
Select meals and refreshments will be provided during the conference, including lunch, and morning/afternoon tea breaks. If you have any dietary requirements, please ensure they have been communicated to us via your ticket registration.
The dress code for the conference is business casual. Those joining us for the Gala Dinner and Award Night, please dress in cocktail attire. If you’re attending the welcome drinks, feel free to dress smart casually for a relaxed evening.
Please ensure your mobile phone and other devices are set to silent, or vibrate during presentations. If you need to take a call, kindly step outside the session to avoid disruption.
A designated smoking area is located to the left of the front entrance doors. Please refrain from smoking in all other areas of the venue.
Our official photographer and videographer will be capturing key moments throughout the event. If you do not wish to be photographed, please notify our team upon arrival.
Should you need assistance during the event, our friendly staff will be available throughout the venue. Look out for staff members wearing nametags.
For further inquiries, please reach out to Celeste Ambalong celeste.ambalong@absec.org.au or 0406 258 481.
E.g. Attend one day and have someone else attend in my place the next day?
All Access Passes for the conference are issued exclusively to individual attendees and are non-transferable. This means you cannot share your pass with others, such as attending on Tuesday and sending someone else in your place on Wednesday.
For safety and organisational reasons, we’ve tailored dietary arrangements and emergency contacts specifically for each registered attendee. Sharing your pass compromises this, and if identified, you may be required to purchase an additional single-day pass or gala dinner ticket.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in helping us create a secure and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
AbSec is the peak organisation concerned with the welfare of Aboriginal children, young people and families. We advocate for their rights, while supporting carers and communities. Our main priority is to keep children and young people safe, with the key goal of also keeping them within their family and community. It is vitally important that young people grow up surrounded by those who understand them, comfortable within their own culture where they will thrive.
AbSec ensures Aboriginal children, young people, families, carers and communities have access to services and support that give them the best possible chance to fulfil their potential. We work with both Aboriginal community-controlled organisations and non-Aboriginal organisations, as well as government agencies and other stakeholders, to steer and coordinate efforts to close the gap.
The bottom line is that we want to see Aboriginal children and young people cared for in safe, thriving Aboriginal families and communities, where they are raised strong in spirit and identity. We want them to have every opportunity for lifelong wellbeing and connection to culture, surrounded by holistic supports.
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.
CEO, Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency.
Aunty Muriel Bamblett is proud a Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung woman who has been employed as the CEO of the Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency since 1999. Aunty Muriel is active on many boards and committees concerning children, families and the Indigenous community, including Chairperson of the Secretariat of National Aboriginal and Islander Child Care (SNAICC), the peak Australian agency for Indigenous child and family services; the Aboriginal Children’s Forum; the Aboriginal Justice Forum; the Coalition of Peaks Joint Council on Closing the Gap and is on the Elders Group for the First Peoples Assembly of Victoria.
Aunty Muriel’s contribution to her community and to Victoria has been recognised in many awards and she was recently bestowed the 2024 National NAIDOC Award for Person of the Year.
Chancellors Postdoctoral Indigenous Research Principal, Jumbunna Institute of Indigenous Education and Research.
Deputy Chair, Commissioner Yoorrook Justice Commission.
Sue-Anne Hunter is a proud Wurundjeri and Ngu rai Illum Wurrung woman and the Deputy Chair and Commissioner of Australia’s first truth telling process – the Yoorrook Justice Commission. She is an Adjunct Professor of Global Engagement at Federation University and a member of the National
Centre for Reconciliation, Truth, and Justice Advisory Board.
A child and family services practitioner by trade, Sue-Anne has over 20 years of experience in child and family services, and is recognised for developing rights-based, transformative practices that empower Aboriginal people to heal from the impacts of colonisation.
Sue-Anne has extensive experience in the governance and the leadership of ACCOs, and her expertise is regularly sought for government inquiries, parliamentary and ministerial advisory committees, academic research projects and media interviews.
Chief Executive Officer, SNAICC – National Voice for our Children.
An Arrernte/Luritja woman from Central Australia, Catherine has been a leading advocate in upholding the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on a national, regional and local level. Catherine has held senior management positions in First Nations organisations including First Nations Media and Jawun Indigenous Corporate Partnerships, as well as within the Northern Territory Education Department, the ABC and NITV/SBS.
A journalist by trade, Catherine’s motivation has always been to drive change that leads to positive outcomes and options for First Nations people. Over the past 10 years she has led multidisciplinary teams, overseen workplace transformations, and advocated for policy reform. Catherine is the CEO for SNAICC – National Voice for our Children, the national non-governmental peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children that works for the fulfilment of the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, in particular to ensure their safety, development and wellbeing.
Chief Executive Officer, AbSec
Scientia Senior Research Fellow at the Social Policy Research Centre, UNSW Sydney.
Dr BJ Newton is a proud Wiradjuri woman and mother to three young children. BJ’s research focuses on working in partnership with Aboriginal organisations to build evidence and support Aboriginal families interfacing with child protection systems. Her current research, Bring them home, keep them home investigates the rates, outcomes and experiences of successful and sustainable restoration for Aboriginal children in out-of-home care. This research is making significant impact across the child protection sector, facilitating truth telling, advocacy, and Aboriginal community-determined initiatives including the Aboriginal Authority for Restoring Children (AARC).
Author, Founder, Director.
Brenda Matthews is a proud Wiradjuri woman living with her husband, Mark, in Bundjalung country, Queensland.
Brenda co-directed the feature documentary The Last Daughter, which was released in Australian cinemas and on Netflix in mid-2023 to excellent reviews and critical acclaim. The film is based on her beautifully penned book of the same title, and was also released in 2023 to excellent reviews.
Brenda’s journey from being part of the stolen generation to becoming a Mother, Grandmother, Author, Speaker, Film Director, Storyteller and Co-Founder/Director of Learning Circle is an inspiring testament to the power of healing and reconciliation.
Her remarkable story, as eloquently portrayed in her debut book and Netflix documentary feature film, “The Last Daughter,” encapsulates heartbreak, love, forgiveness, hope and bringing the Country together.
NSW Minister for Families and Communities.
Kate Washington is the newly appointed Minister for Families and Communities, and Minister for Disability Inclusion in the Minns Labor Government.
Since 2015, Kate has proudly represented the people of Port Stephens in the Parliament of NSW. Prior to entering Parliament, Kate was a partner in a law firm in Newcastle, specialising in health law.
As a parent, parliamentarian and lawyer, Kate has a strong track record of giving voice to the voiceless and looking after the most vulnerable people in our communities.
Managing Director, Indigenous Psychological Services
Dr Westerman AM, a Nyamal woman from Pilbara, WA, is a trailblazer in Aboriginal mental health, cultural competency, and suicide prevention. She has won numerous awards for her groundbreaking work. She was the first Aboriginal person to attain a master’s and PhD in Clinical Psychology.
She founded Indigenous Psychological Services in 1998 in the absence of government funding.
Delivered over 100 keynotes nationally/internationally in Canada, the USA, and New Zealand
Trained 50,000 plus practitioners, making her arguably the most in demand trainer in Australia.
She has developed numerous Australian firsts, including the only culturally & clinically valid tools for at-risk Indigenous people. The first national Indigenous youth mental health prevalence database
In 2019, she funded the Dr Tracy Westerman Indigenous Psychology Scholarship Program to ensure that our highest risk families and communities have access to a psychologist. In 2020, launched the charity, The Westerman Jilya Institute for Indigenous Mental Health to drive Indigenous mental health and suicide prevention best practice. Jilya has supported 55 Indigenous psychology students, many of whom have now graduated.
She launched her memoir Jilya on September 3rd , which has already achieved best seller status
First Nations Performance Audit Team Leader, Audit Office of NSW.
Carla Ware is a Mualgal woman who currently resides on Darkinjung country, and has worked in the public sector for the last 20 years. Having
spent 16 years at the NSW Ombudsman’s office working in and then managing the Aboriginal Unit, Carla was involved in several audits that
inquired into and made recommendations supporting Aboriginal people’s rights to self-determination and how the public sector can practically and meaningfully support this.
During her time auditing the Interagency Plan to tackle child sexual assault in Aboriginal communities, she wrote the ‘healing’ chapter of the report. Following the release of this report, the NSW government included healing in their Aboriginal Affairs strategy: OCHRE, a first for any state in Australia. Carla acted as the Deputy Ombudsman, Aboriginal Programs before moving to AbSec as the Operations Manager and then on to creating the First Nations Performance Auditing Program at the NSW Audit Office.
Secretary, NSW Department of Communities and Justice.
Prior to joining DCJ, Mr Tidball had been the Chief Executive Officer of the Law Council of Australia (LCA) and the Secretary-General of LAWASIA. He also served as the CEO of the Law Society of NSW for 14 years.
During his 35-year career, Mr Tidball has worked with Government leaders and ministers, agency heads, industry leaders, the judiciary, non-government organisations and the community.
Mr Tidball began his career in child protection working for the South Australian public service, before moving to the Commonwealth to
develop community corrections and juvenile justice programs in the lead-up to self-government in the Australian Capital Territory.
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.
