Call for Abstract Submissions

We invite researchers, educators, practitioners, and leaders working in schools, child and family services, community services, and mental health to submit abstracts for Lead the Way Conference 2025. This conference is dedicated to strengthening wellbeing and safety for children, families, adults, and staff within organisations that serve them.

Theme: "Strengthening Wellbeing and Safety"

Conference Themes

• Working in Schools – Creating safe, environments that support wellbeing for students and/or staff.
• Working with Families – Strengthening safety and wellbeing for families and/or staff.
• Community Services – Addressing systemic challenges in vulnerable communities.
• Mental Health & Wellbeing – Supporting staff and clients through best practices.
• Out-of-Home Care – Enhancing foster care and residential services through safety and wellbeing.
• Justice Systems – Trauma-informed youth justice programs.
• Culture & Healing – Culturally inclusive, safe and responsive practices for diverse communities.
• Lived Experience & Advocacy – Amplifying voices of people with lived experience.

Abstract Submission Guidelines

1. Submission Format

• Abstracts must be submitted via the online submission portal.
• Submissions must be in English and within a 300-word limit (excluding references).

2. Presentation Formats

• 30-Minute Presentation – Share research, insights, or case studies.
• 60-Minute Panel Discussion – Facilitated discussion between experts.
• 60-75 Minute Hands-On Workshop – Interactive session for skill development.

Key Criteria for Selection

• Align with the conference theme and focus on improving wellbeing and safety for those we serve and those who support them.
• Engage the audience with latest research, best practice, interactive methods, case studies, or practical applications.
• Be evidence-based, incorporating research, data, or lived experience.
• Use trauma-informed and culturally safe practices.
• Provide actionable takeaways for attendees.

Abstract Submission Key Dates