Forum Agenda
Two days of keynotes, panels, case studies and yarning circles — followed by an On Country Workshop at the Living Kaurna Cultural Centre.
Registration open — light refreshments provided
Welcome to Country
Chairperson's opening address
Join Judith Lovegrove as she officially opens the forum, setting intentions for two days of learning, reflection and collaboration. Drawing on her extensive leadership experience across child and family services, Judith will reflect on the urgent need for self-determined, community-led solutions that strengthen families and keep children safe, connected and thriving. She will highlight the importance of the conversations taking place both on and off the stage, as delegates come together to share knowledge, challenge systems and advance better outcomes for First Nations children, families and communities.
Addressing Social Determinants
Empowering Aboriginal Women as the first step to system reform
Join Antoinette Braybrook as she discusses the need to empower Aboriginal mothers, sisters, aunties, and daughters; Investing in these women is the first step to system reform as they hold the care, wisdom, knowledge and courage to keep families strong and together and children safe and connected to identity, Country and culture.
Morning tea
System Reform
Case Study: Our Booris Our Way
Hear how the Our Booris Our Way Implementation Oversight Committee have been instrumental in reforming the child protection system for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in the ACT. Through deep community engagement and ongoing advocacy, the committee have successfully advanced the decline of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in out of home care in the ACT.
Lunch
Yarning Circles
Cultural Healing
Explore the 'transforming trauma' model at NINI supporting individuals and communities through truth-telling, healing, and cultural strength.
Embedding Culture into Frontline Practice
Join this yarn to learn about the Social and Emotional Wellbeing Centre model and how this model can be practically implemented into your services and organisations.
Keeping Families Strong Through Culture, Connection and Housing Stability
Join Wardli-ana as we share how culturally safe, Aboriginal-led and partnership based approaches to housing support can strengthen family wellbeing, reduce the impacts of homelessness, and help keep First Nations children connected to family, culture, community and Country. Through holistic support, advocacy, collaboration and relationship based practice, Wardli-ana works alongside families experiencing or at risk of homelessness to achieve sustainable housing and improved outcomes for mob.
Weaving Circle
Join this weaving circle and experience the therapeutic benefits of connection with culture through a mindful practice that has been passed down for generations.
Innovation and Inspiration
Koort Connection: Breaking cycles through shared healing, mentorship and connection
Join Shelley Farmer as she explores her journey from experiencing the harsh realities of a system that was never built for her, to breaking the cycle — surviving, achieving and establishing Koort Connection. Shelley's goal was to walk alongside young Aboriginal girls who were facing the same struggles she had, and through Koort Connection she has realised this goal, helping young girls to heal and thrive.