SNAICC Conference kicks off today – more than 1,500 delegates expected

Freya Lucas

Sep 05, 2023

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SNAICC – National Voice for our Children has commenced its 2023 conference today, which will see more than 1,500 delegates in Garamilla (Darwin) from 5-7 September to highlight the work of SNAICC and its members when it comes to Closing the Gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations, policy makers, researchers, government officials, non-government organisations and industry representatives will share knowledge and experience about supporting children and families to thrive at the biennial conference, while also highlighting the importance of supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led solutions to issues.

"The evidence is clear that when we are partners in the decision-making, running the services and developing the policy, it works," said SNAICC Chair Muriel Bamblett AO.

"SNAICC'23 will platform more than 110 sessions that will demonstrate how the work that Aboriginal community-controlled organisations (ACCO) are doing in early years services and care and child protection are delivering results.”

The conference will be the first face-to-face gathering for SNAICC members and other interested parties since 2019.

"We are very proud to hold SNAICC'23 on Larrakia lands and thank Larrakia Nation for their support to ensure our conference reflects and incorporates their heritage through ceremonies and artwork," SNAICC Chief Executive Catherine Liddle said.

"As well as the plenaries, keynotes, concurrent sessions and yarning circles, we have a strong cultural program including performances each day and a marketplace with more than 30 services and artists and makers exhibiting.”

As part of the packed conference program, more than 700 delegates will attend a Gala Dinner, which will feature the special flavours unique to the Top End, along with performances and other entertainment.

Speakers include international keynote Judge Frances Eivers, former Aotearoa New Zealand Children's Commissioner, now member of Board of Commissioners; Pat Turner AM, Lead Convenor Coalition of Peaks and CEO NACCHO; and, Dean Parkin, Yes23 Campaign Director.

For more information about the conference, visit the dedicated conference website here.

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