National Conference

2025 National Indigenous Juvenile Justice Conference

02- 04 December 2026Gold Coast, OLD
View Event Details
Skip to event content
Date
Dec 2 - Dec 4, 2026
Venue
Gold Coast, OLD
Call for Papers
Open
Accepting submissions
Register NowSubmit Paper

Acknowledgement to Country

In Australia, protocol requires us to recognise the Traditional Owners of the land on which we gather. All presentations must therefore begin with an acknowledgement to Country and to local Traditional Elders: "We wish to acknowledge and respect the traditional custodians whose ancestral lands we meet upon. We acknowledge the deep feelings of attachment and relationship of Aboriginal peoples to Country. We also pay respects to the cultural authority of Aboriginal peoples visiting or attending from other areas of Australia who are present here." Indigenous Conference Services acknowledges and pays respect to the Traditional people of the Country. "Welcome to Country" ceremonies and "acknowledging the traditional custodians" of the land demonstrates respect for Aboriginal people as Australia's First Peoples. Ceremonies and protocols form a fundamental part of Aboriginal cultures.

THE CONFERENCE

The National Indigenous Juvenile Justice Conference aims to empower youth through cultural resilience, drawing on traditional knowledge and practices for healing and justice. It seeks to foster dialogue on reconciliation, advocate for systemic reform to address the overrepresentation of First Nations youth in the justice system, loss of cultural values, norms, dispossession, colonisation and the forced removal of Indigenous children from their families and communities were believed to be contributing factors of social and economic disadvantage of Indigenous peoples who come in contact with the criminal justice system. This year’s conference will explore trauma-informed, prevention-focused approaches to provide First Nations youth with the support and opportunities needed for positive futures.

THE CONFERENCE AIMS & OBJECTIVES 

The conference objectives are designed to empower and stimulate open and frank discussion through the sharing of traditional knowledge and strengths to overcome adversity and fosters partnerships between governments, service providers and First Nations communities. It's designed to empower and stimulate discussion in a positive manner that can and may be used back in our work environment to further develop strength, unity and education. Moreover, one of the most powerful objectives that Indigenous peoples have is the strength to overcome adversity through the power of sharing knowledge and therefore the conference will attempt to foster all of the issues set out in this conference.

  • Reduce First Nations youth incarcerations

  • Provide an open and frank forum for discussion

  • Lend support to individuals and families working in the Justice system

  • Help establish and grow a worldwide network and resources through information sharing

  • Show that there are great efforts being made to make change

  • Exchange information regarding the successes of community projects

  • To bring together all sectors of the community as a united voice to say there are alternatives to juvenile incarceration

  • Bring together researchers, service providers, government agencies, policy makers/developers & organisations

  • Networking and lend support to individuals and groups working in the justice system

  • To foster partnerships between Government, Service Providers, Community groups and individuals  

THE CONFERENCE THEME 

This year’s conference theme, "Healing, Empowerment, and Reform: Culturally Grounded Solutions for First Nations Youth in Juvenile Justice," highlights the need for culturally informed, community-driven approaches to support First Nations youth in the justice system. It advocates for systemic reform, focusing on healing, empowerment, and prevention, while drawing on traditional knowledge to break the cycle of incarceration.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

Before European settlement and the introduction of foreign diseases, alcohol and other detriments, the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander culture was vibrant and strong with spiritual and family lore that were guiding principles to a way of life that existed for centuries. It has now succumbed to bright lights and the trappings of modern day society.

Throughout the decades we have seen the erosion and destruction of our language, customs and spiritual well being. The dynamics of contemporary Australia showing seventy percent (70%) of Indigenous people live in an urban setting. A question we ask you to consider - What if Captain Cook didn’t land on the shore of the East Coast of Australia, but in a far more remote area? Would Australia’s east coast be what it is today?

The backbone of our existence is family, custom & spirituality. During group discussions we would like to explore past and present experiences, leading into future strategies & goals to empower our people in our communities. We believe that through sharing of experiences and knowledge, we become stronger as a collective. The opportunity to discuss juvenile justice issues in an open, transparent and culturally sensitive forum has become a vital networking source to develop collaborative approaches for the betterment of Indigenous people's overall wellbeing.

CONFERENCE STATEMENT

Indigenous peoples, nationally and internationally, will come together in an environment that can lead to the sharing of information via their cultural and historical values.  This conference is designed to inspire and enable Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islander peoples, services and other partners to take control, step up and take action to the next level, to ensure the rights and self determination of First Nations Peoples are upheld. To honour our Indigenous men, women, youth and the whole family – their strength and resilience – by listening to their stories and strategies, learning from their experiences and committing to systemic change to protect the rights of our children, families and cultures. To honour also the knowledge of our men, Elders and wisdom of our cultural responses, sharing successes and struggles to chart effective, evidence-informed ways forward. The conference provides a forum to discuss solutions by Indigenous peoples and to connect and acquire knowledge from each other to heal the spirit, heal the earth, and sustain cultural practices for this generation and for the future generations to come.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

First Nations Leaders and Elders – To share traditional knowledge and cultural perspectives that can guide reform and healing practices in the juvenile justice system.

Juvenile Justice Professionals – Including judges, lawyers, probation officers, and social workers, who are working directly with young people in the justice system.

Policy Makers and Government Representatives – To engage in meaningful dialogue about systemic reform and advocate for changes to current policies affecting First Nations youth.

Indigenous Youth Advocates and Activists – Those working on the frontlines to support and uplift First Nations youth and advocate for their rights within the justice system.

Community Leaders and Organizations – Especially those who are implementing grassroots programs for youth diversion, rehabilitation, and prevention.

Academics and Researchers – Experts in juvenile justice, Indigenous studies, social work, and criminology who can contribute evidence-based insights and research findings.

Healthcare and Trauma Professionals – To discuss and develop trauma-informed care practices for youth involved in the justice system.

Educators and Mentors – Those involved in First Nations youth education and mentoring programs, focusing on prevention and personal development.

Legal and Human Rights Organizations – Groups working to protect the rights of First Nations youth and promote fair treatment within the justice system.

Philanthropic and Funding Bodies – Organizations that support initiatives aimed at improving the juvenile justice system for First Nations youth and funding reform initiatives.

CONFERENCE AGENDA

Disclaimer: This conference agenda is subject to change without prior notice to ensure a smooth flow of conference proceedings.

🖤💛❤️ DAY 1 – Wednesday, 17 September 2025🖤💛❤️

8:00 AM – Registration Arrival, registration, and meet & greet

8:30 - 12:30 PM - Pre-Conference Masterclass: Indigenous-led trauma informed care and suicide prevention (Optional) Dr. Amber Logan & Dr Joe Stone Health Psychologist & Clinical Psychologist "Indigenous Development Specialists/ Cultural Wise NZ/USA

1:30 PM - 5:00 PM - Pre-Conference Workshop Compassionate Community-Led Program: A human-centric codesign workshop in responding to crisis Maria Callaghan Chairperson Compassionate Communities Health Connectors Network in Queensland QLD

🖤💛❤️ DAY 2 – Thursday, 18 September 2025🖤💛❤️

8:30 AM – Registration Arrival, registration, and meet & greet

9:00 AM – Keynote Session Master of Ceremony: Welcome & Safety Announcement Joedie Saunders Artist, Advocate, Proud Biripi Woman Jodie Lawler Collection NSW

9:15 AM - Keynote Session: Welcome to Country & Traditional Performances Sofia & Aunty Erica Eurell Tradition Custodian Dreamtime Artistry Gold Coast QLD

9:30 AM - Keynote Session: Formal Opening Address Uncle Thomas Callaghan, CEO Indigenous Conference Services QLD

9:45 AM - Keynote Session: Decolonizing Justice: Transforming Legal Responses to Domestic Violence in Indigenous Communities Dr Amber R. Logan & Dr Joseph Stone Health Psychologist & Clinical Psychologist "Indigenous Development Specialists/ Cultural Wise NZ/USA

10:30 AM – Morning Tea & Networking

11:00 AM -Keynote Session: The Love Bites Program: Young people are the key to sustained cultural change to prevent violence. Sarnia Ralston Project Manager National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse & Neglect (NAPCAN) QLD

11:45 AM -Keynote Session: Building Resilient Communities: Strategies for empowering communities to protect children and support families Thomas Allsop Chief Executive Officer PeakCare Queensland QLD

12:30 PM– LUNCH BREAK - Elders & Youth Sharing Tables

1:30 PM – Keynote Session: Creating a safe space for survivors to reconnect and support their recovery Rebecca Masterton & Dr. Gina Masterton Master of Professional Psychology | Behaviour Support Practitioner Southern Cross University QLD

2:15 PM - Keynote Session: Building Effective Partnerships Between Survivors and Advocates Felitciana Zsha' Mirzze ,Contributing Writer /Founder/CEO and Founder ,About Time Media /Trauma Recovery Network / Neuro Vitality Pty Ltd VIC

3:00 PM – Afternoon Tea and Networking

3:30 PM - Keynote Session: Engaging Children in Alternative Activities Deanne Carson, Founder & CEO, Body Safety Australia VIC

4:15 PM - Keynote Session Empowering Indigenous Youth Mark Roberston Founding Director , MPOWER & One Vision Productions NSW

6:30 PM - Conference Networking Dinner: Conference Dinner Cruise Aboard Spirit of Elston (Seaworld Cruises)

🖤💛❤️ DAY 3 – Friday, 19 September 2025🖤💛❤️

9:00 AM – Keynote Session: Strategies and Solutions for Effective Child Protection Sarnia Ralston & Joshua Morris, Queensland Manager & Youth Speak Out Co Chair NAPCAN QLD

9:45 AM - Keynote Session: Survivors at the Center: Amplifying Voices, Shaping Solutions Simone O'Brien Motivational Speaker/Director/Ambassador/Patron Grampians Community Health, Australia SAY NO MORE, RiseUP VIC

10:30 AM – Morning Tea & Networking

11:00 AM -Keynote Session: Building Community-Led Solutions to Domestic Violence Christine Robinson, Chief Executive Office "Wirringa Baiya Aboriginal Women’s Legal Centre NSW

11:45 AM -Keynote Session Designing the Future – Healing Systems & Empowered Communities Lucas Williams, CEO & Founder - Gan'na Healings Programs NSW

12:30 PM– Lunch Break & Networking

1:30 PM – Keynote Session: Supporting Infant and Child Mental Health in Early Learning: Trauma-Informed Inclusion Strategies Alma-Jane O’Donnell National Manager of Child and Family Services Goodstart Early Learning SA

2:15 PM - Keynote Session: Gender Equality – Fostering resilience and gender empowerment Dr Shweta Goyal Educator, Author, Researcher, and Motivational Speaker Far North Queensland Diverse Communities Council, Inc. QLD

3:00 PM – Afternoon Tea and Networking

3:30 PM - Keynote Session: Global Success Stories in Child Protection and the lessons learned Phil Doorgachurn General Manager of Strategic Child Safeguarding Initiatives Australian Childhood Foundation NSW

4:15 PM - Keynote Session Early Childhood, Youth Wellbeing and Reducing Out-Of-Home Care Joanne Roff Executive Manager Service Delivery ,IFYS QLD

5:00 PM - Interactive Group Session:Reflections & Group Discussion on Key Takeaways Maria Callaghan Managing Director ICS Australia QLD

END OF THE CONFERENCE

Why Attend

This conference offers delegates a unique opportunity to participate in a positive environment dedicated to sharing information and empowering all attendees. In our everyday working environment, the daily pressures of our roles often limit our capacity to expand knowledge and build networks. Whether working at community or governmental level, opportunities to network and establish contacts beyond your local region can be limited. This conference addresses that challenge, providing valuable connections and insights that extend well beyond your immediate professional circle.

Guest Speakers

This event features an impressive array of guest speakers who share stories, successes, and challenges they've overcome, offering inspiration and opportunities for delegates to engage with Culture, Empowerment, Education, and Networking. Drawn from diverse cultural backgrounds, professional careers, and grassroots community commitments, this year's speakers transform an ordinary event into an extraordinary one. Their contributions create lasting impact, ensuring the conference remains a source of tremendous benefit and memorable insights long after it concludes.

Our Speakers

Felitciana Zsha' Mirzze

Felitciana Zsha' Mirzze

Contributing Writer, Founder and Company Owner About Time Media
Trauma Recovery Network and Neuro Vitality Pty Ltd

Felicia Djamirze is a qualified counsellor, award-winning businesswoman, and dedicated mental health advocate. As the founder and CEO of Neuro Vitality Pty Ltd and the Trauma Recovery Network, she is committed to championing the rights of women affected by trauma, violence, poverty, incarceration, and the justice system.

Djamirze is the author of the powerful true crime memoir Accessory, which offers a firsthand account of survival, post-traumatic growth, and rebuilding a life with purpose. She is a regular contributor to About Time Media and Women’s Agenda, using her platform to raise awareness of issues affecting individuals silenced by stigma, abuse, and discrimination.

Recognized as a trusted voice in the media and a sought-after public speaker, Djamirze has made significant contributions to women’s rights, trauma recovery, and justice reform. She spearheaded Australia’s first all-female, Indigenous-led nationwide study on trauma and adverse childhood experiences among individuals with a conviction history and developed the Growth-Focused Trauma Model—an innovative framework for practitioners working with complex trauma and PTSD.

Her work has a global reach, as she travels internationally to visit prisons, engage in research, and participate in cross-cultural knowledge sharing to advocate for trauma-informed reintegration and restorative justice practices.

With extensive experience supporting survivors of domestic and institutional violence, as well as criminalized and marginalized women, Djamirze remains committed to driving systemic change, challenging entrenched inequality, and empowering individuals to transform adversity into wisdom. Through her work, she continues to inspire others to recognize and share their unique potential in a meaningful and impactful way.

Uncle Thomas Callaghan

Uncle Thomas Callaghan

Chief Executive Officer & Secretary
ICS Australia and ATSIDNQ Aboriginal & Torres Straits Islander Corporation

Uncle Thomas Callaghan is a proud Koori man and descendant hailed from Biripi country (Taree) and Kempsey Dunghutti country in New South Wales. He grew up on Old Burnt Bridge Aboriginal Mission, just 8km west of Kempsey NSW and until his late teenage years. As a young adult, Tom returned to his grandmother's and family home traditional of the Biripi people where he lived on Purfleet Aboriginal Mission just 9Km South of Taree NSW. Today, he is the oldest living grandchild of Thomas Benjamin Callaghan, late of Bellbrook West of Kempsey and grandmother, Cinderella Callaghan (Richie) late of Purfleet south of Taree NSW. Over the years, Thomas established Aboriginal Medical Services, owned varied business enterprises, worked as professional fisherman, professional motorbike racer, Prime Minister Keating's team member and worked at UNHCR setting up refugee settlement camps across the Africas and the Middle East.

Joedie Saunders

Joedie Saunders

Artist, Advocate, Proud Biripi Woman
Indigenous Conference Services

Joedie Saunders a local Biripi woman and artist, has been creating contemporary Aboriginal art for over 30 years. Her artworks deeply reflect her culture, stories of her country, and a range of emotions and feelings. Joedie is passionate about sharing her art and loves seeing the connections others make with her creations.

As a proud Biripi woman, she draw strength from her roots – a lineage of resilient mountain women, the Wimara, known for their strength and wisdom. Joedie worked tirelessly in juvenile justice and child protection, confronting the harsh realities of sexual abuse in remote communities.Transitioning into cultural heritage conservation, she spent years advocating for our land and traditions, eventually becoming the first woman CEO of the Land Council in Taree. Currently, she works as Manager of Community Engagement & Investment at the Department of Premier & Cabinet and felt privileged to continue the work of her late brother, advocating for the revival and preservation of Aboriginal languages statewide. It's a tribute to his legacy and our shared dream of cultural preservation. Joedie stated, 'In everything I do, I pay homage to my family, my community, our culture, and our land. Together, let's walk forward, honoring the past and shaping a brighter future'. Joedie is a mother of two beautiful boys.

Erica Johnson

Erica Johnson

Wellness Program Coordinator
Self Employed, Consultant

Erica Johnson holds a Master's degree in Indigenous Social Work and is a proud member of the Treaty 6 Indigenous community from Maskwacis, Alberta. Drawing from her personal experiences, Erica deeply understands the pervasive impact of intergenerational trauma on Indigenous communities today. She has witnessed the struggles of single mothers facing trauma and the devastating effects of lateral violence within communities. Overcoming numerous hardships, Erica was inspired to create a unique model centered on grief, trauma, and the empowerment of Indigenous women. This model aims to foster healing through resilience, providing a supportive framework for those navigating similar challenges. Her work is driven by a commitment to addressing the specific needs of Indigenous women and promoting pathways to recovery and strength. Erica's approach emphasizes culturally relevant practices and community-based solutions. By focusing on resilience and empowerment, she seeks to create lasting change and support the well-being of Indigenous women and their communities. Her dedication to this cause reflects a profound understanding of the issues at hand and a passion for making a positive impact to a new focus Lateral Joy.

Conference Agenda

Note

This conference agenda may change without prior notice.

8:30 AM
Registrations and Networking
9:00 AM
Keynote Session: Master of Ceremony - Welcome & Safety Announcement
9:15 AM
Keynote Session: Welcome to Country & Traditional Performances
9:30 AM
Keynote Session: Formal Opening Address
9:45 AM
Keynote Session: Truth-Telling and Trauma – Understanding the Roots of Violence (Indigenous academic or Elder discusses the historical and systemic roots of domestic violence, colonization, and intergenerational trauma.)
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Morning Tea - Network with Service Providers/Exhibitors
11:00 AM
Keynote Session: Voices of Survivors – Stories of Strength and Healing (Survivor advocates share stories of courage and community-led recovery. Content warning and support staff available)
11:45 AM
Plenary Panel: Breaking the Silence in Our Communities (Indigenous leaders, counsellors, and community advocates discuss stigma, barriers, and safe ways to start conversations)
12:30 PM
Lunch Break - Network with Service Providers/Exhibitors
1:30 PM
Workshop: Understanding Lateral Violence & Restoring Respect (Interactive session exploring how colonization and trauma affect relationships and community dynamics.)
3:00 PM
Afternoon Tea - Network with Service Providers/Exhibitors
3:30 PM
Keynote Session: Working with Men to Stop Violence (Facilitated discussion on engaging Indigenous men as allies and mentors for change.)
4:15 PM
Yarning Circle: Safe Spaces for Women, Children, and Families
6:30 PM
Conference Networking Dinner

Registration

Early Bird Discount Available!

Register early to save on registration fees. Pricing changes monthly!

Please note that registrations are set out in an affordable way for organisations, which changes on a monthly basis. Hence the earlier you register, the more savings for your organisation. Registration fees include all-day access to the event, available conference papers, daily lunch, and refreshments for registered delegates only. Fees do not include travel costs or accommodation.

Important Payment Terms

Registration fees must be received within 7 DAYS from being issued an invoice. Otherwise, bookings will not be considered.

Register NowSubmit Paper

Let's Connect

We'd love to hear from you. Whether you have a question about our conferences, registration, or anything else, our team is ready to answer all your questions.

Contact us ICS

Indigenous Conference Services

ICS Australia Pty Ltd

Phone

(+61) 04557 76 668

0414687972

Email

admin@icsconferences.org

We typically respond within 24-48 hours

Mailing Address

8 Kiwi Court Point Vernon QLD 4655

Website

www.icsconferences.org

Send us a message

Fill out the form below and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Maximum 5000 characters

Ready to join us?

Register Now

Become Part of ICS

Keynotes

Keynotes

Empower others with your stories, insights, and wisdom, inspiring a world where Indigenous culture is celebrated and respected.

Become a Speaker
Exhibitions

Exhibitions

Use your platform to create awareness about vital Indigenous causes and issues, inspiring attendees to become advocates for positive change.

Become an Exhibitor
Sponsorship

Sponsorship

Associate your brand with a cause that matters, gaining valuable exposure to a diverse and engaged audience, both locally and globally.

Become a Sponsor
Australian Conference by Indigenous Organizers

Join Our Conference

Subscribe to our mailing list and stay informed about the latest developments in the world of ICS conferences.