ACKNOWLEDGEMENT TO COUNTRY

In Australia, the protocol is to recognise the Traditional Owners of the land to which we are gathering. Therefore, all presentations must begin with an acknowledgement to country and to local Traditional Elders: “We wish to acknowledge and respect the traditional custodians whose ancestral lands we are to 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 / attending from other areas of Australia who are present here”.

Integrated Conference Services acknowledges and pay our respect to the Traditional people of the Country. "Welcome to Country" ceremony and "acknowledging the traditional custodians" of the land shows respect for Aboriginal people as Australia's First Peoples. Ceremonies and protocols are a fundamental part of Aboriginal cultures.

THE CONFERENCE

The 2025 Global Domestic Violence Network Conference is scheduled to be held at the Hilton Hotel on the Gold Coast QLD Australia on May 21-23, 2025.  As domestic violence continues to affect millions worldwide, this conference serves as a crucial platform for activists, practitioners, and policymakers to come together to share insights, experiences, and effective strategies for prevention and intervention which aims to equip delegates with the tools necessary to advocate for change and support survivors in their communities. Furthermore, the conference will adopt a network-centered approach to maximize collaboration, knowledge sharing, and collective action among diverse stakeholders. This approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of various organizations, professionals, and communities involved in combating domestic violence, creating a robust platform for dialogue and partnership.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with renowned experts through keynote presentations, interactive workshops, and panel discussions on legal reforms, trauma-informed care, and community-based prevention programs. By exploring the complexities of domestic violence across various cultural contexts and sharing success stories, participants will gain valuable perspectives and actionable strategies that can be implemented within their organizations and communities. The conference also emphasizes the importance of intersectionality, recognizing how factors such as gender, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity impact experiences of violence and access to support.

CONFERENCE THEMES

The 2025 Global Domestic Violence Network Conference themes are designed to guide the conference discussions and activities, ensuring a comprehensive, forward-looking approach to tackling domestic violence by focusing on collaboration, innovation, survivor leadership, and systemic change.

1. Building Global Networks for Local Impact: Collaborating Across Borders

   Key Areas of Focus: Global-to-local strategies for domestic violence prevention, building partnerships between international organizations and grassroots movements, enhancing cross-border cooperation and resource-sharing and leveraging global frameworks and standards to shape local practices

2. Survivor-Centered Approaches: Amplifying Voices for Empowerment and Change Key Areas of Focus: Survivor-led initiatives and advocacy, strengthening survivor support services and networks, trauma-informed care and healing approaches and shaping policies that center survivor autonomy and dignity,

3. Innovation in Prevention: Harnessing Technology and New Models for Change Key Areas of Focus: Digital tools for reporting, safety, and survivor support, technology-driven education and awareness campaigns, using data for early intervention and prevention and innovative community-based prevention programs

4. Strengthening Systems: Coordinating Responses Across Sectors Key Areas of Focus: Enhancing coordination between police, healthcare providers, and social services, building integrated response systems for survivors and communities, training first responders to recognize and appropriately handle domestic violence cases and policy advocacy for integrated, survivor-centric systems

5. Advocating for Policy Change: Moving from Awareness to Action Key Areas of Focus: Advocating for stronger laws and policies on domestic violence, the role of media and public campaigns in shaping policy, engaging policymakers and political leaders in domestic violence issues and creating a global policy agenda to hold governments accountable for preventing domestic violence

CONFERENCE OBJECTIVES

The conference aims to build stronger, interconnected networks of professionals and advocates around the world who are committed to ending domestic violence. By sharing knowledge, strategies, and stories, this conference aims to foster collaborative partnerships, amplify survivor voices, and create actionable solutions for global and local change.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

The conference is designed for a diverse range of delegates committed to the safety and well-being of women and children such as:

• Advocates & survivors

• Policymakers and Police Officers

• Social workers and Child protection officers

• Support coordinators

• Mental health professionals

• Child psychologists & therapists

• Policy makers & police officers

• Lawyers, public trustees & public guardians,

• Researchers and academics

• Health providers, pediatricians, nurses & midwives

• NGOS & Non profit organisations

• Government representatives from local, national, and international governments 

• Community leaders, women's groups, men's groups & activists

CONFERENCE AGENDA

This draft conference agenda is subject to change without prior notice. It’s published to guide those who are submitting papers.

Day 1: Building Collaborative Networks and Understanding the Global Landscape

8:30 AM – 9:00 AM: Registration & Networking - start building connections with peers from around the world.

9:00 AM – 9:45 AM: Opening Ceremony, Introductions & Welcome to Country

9:45 AM – 10:30 AM: Keynote Session: Global Networks, Local Solutions: Tackling Domestic Violence Together

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Morning Break & Networking

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Keynote Session: From Isolated Efforts to Collective Action: How can global networks amplify the work of local and grassroots organizations?

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch Break & Networking

1:30 PM – 2:15 PM: Breakout Networking Sessions (Choose One)

Break-Out Room A: Building Effective Partnerships Between Survivors and Advocates (Calling for Papers from Community)

Break-Out Room B: Leveraging Technology & Digital Tools for Advocacy and Safety (Calling for Papers from Community)

Break-Out Room C: Local-to-Global Approaches: How Grassroots Movements Can Influence International Policy (Calling for Papers from Community)

2:15 PM - 3:00 PM: Breakout Networking Sessions (Choose One)

Break-Out Room A: Exploring how survivor-led organizations and advocates can create a unified front for social change (Calling for Papers from Community)

Break-Out Room B: Focus on tech solutions, apps, and online platforms to connect survivors, advocates, and service providers. (Calling for Papers from Community)

Break-Out Room C: Local-to-Global Approaches: Strategies for scaling up successful local initiatives to have a global impact. (Calling for Papers from Community)

3:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Afternoon Break & Networking

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM: Collaborative Workshop: From Network to Action: Designing a Global Action Plan

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Conference Networking Dinner

Day 2: Strengthening Support Systems, Advancing Policy, Advocacy, and Global Partnerships

8:30 AM – 9:00 AM: Registration and networking

9:00 AM – 9:45 AM Keynote Session: Survivors at the Center: Amplifying Voices, Shaping Solutions

9:45 AM - 10:30 AM Keynote Session: Policy Change through Networked Advocacy: Harnessing Global Power for Local Impact

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Morning Break & Networking

11:00 AM – 11:45 AM Keynote Session: Strengthening Networks of Support: Innovating Service Delivery Models for Survivors

11:45 AM - 12:30 PM Keynote Session: Intersectionality in Advocac: Building Inclusive Networks for Marginalized Groups

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch Break & Networking

1:30 PM – 2:15 PM: Breakout Networking Sessions (Choose One)

Break-Out Room A: Engaging Men and Boys in Ending Domestic Violence: Programs and campaigns that involve men and boys in prevention efforts. (Calling for Papers from Community)

Break-Out Room B: Trauma-Informed Networks: Best Practices for Supporting First Responders and Professionals (Calling for Papers from Community)

Break-Out Room C: Legal Networks: Strengthening Collaboration Between Lawyers, Police, and Social Services (Calling for Papers from Community)

2:15 PM - 3:00 PM: Breakout Networking Sessions (Choose One)

Break-Out Room A: Coordinated Crisis Response: Exploring how communities can create a coordinated, survivor-centered crisis response framework. (Calling for Papers from Community)

Break-Out Room B: Building trauma-informed networks for professionals across various sectors to better support survivors. (Calling for Papers from Community)

Break-Out Room C: Best practices for creating interconnected legal support systems for survivors. (Calling for Papers from Community)

3:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Afternoon Break & Networking

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM: Keynote Session: Commitments to Action: Strengthening Networks for a World Free from Domestic Violence

4:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Closing Ceremony

Day 3: Post-Conference Masterclass

8:30 AM - 12:30 PM  Healing Circle Works

CALL FOR PAPERS

To ensure grassroots community programs are highlighted, no less than 50 per cent of the conference proceedings is devoted to community-controlled organisations/groups. If your paper is selected, you may have more than one presenter to present your paper. However, only two presenters will be entitled to the registration discount. If you are chosen to present at the conference, your paper will form part of the conference proceedings and be distributed at the conclusion of the event with all other presentations. To submit your paper, please complete the online form.

Guidelines in Submitting Paper:

• Papers should not contain offensive language and take into account cultural sensitivities of Australians as host country.

• Papers must treat the themes in a manner that contributes to further discussion of conference aims.

• Conference papers must be presented in the finished format not less than 60 days prior to the event.

• Papers that are not chosen in the first round may be resubmitted in the second round.

• Authors of papers presented at the conference will be formally notified of their acceptance in writing.

• A call for papers fee of $850 will apply to all persons submitting papers, payable within 7 days upon notification of acceptance.

• Papers should explore ways in which the themes show up in the philosophy of the conference.

• All papers must be presented in a positive and informative light.

• To submit a paper, please complete the online form at this link: SUBMIT A PAPER HERE.

BECOME A SPONSOR 

All conference sponsors and supporting organizations will be promoted via a range of initiatives reflecting your support for our impactful conferences. Sponsorship Packages are the following:

• Gold sponsorship $10,000 

  • What's in it for your organization? 

    • Exposure prior and during the conference

    • Organization logo on all conference materials and dedicated webpage on conference website

    • Verbal acknowledgment at all plenary sessions 

    • (1) Reserved spot for keynote session/presentation

    • (3) Complimentary conference registrations for staff which include morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea

    • (3) Complimentary tickets to conference networking dinner

    • (2) Trade stall/exhibitor table at conference foyer

    • (1) Dedicated newsletter highlight distributed to more than 250,000 email mailing lists

    • Achievement of your organization's RAP deliverables and commitment to reconciliation and fostering corporate social responsibility

• Silver sponsorship $7,000

  • What's in it for your organization? 

    • Exposure prior and during the conference

    • Organization logo on all conference materials and dedicated webpage on conference website

    • Verbal acknowledgment at all plenary sessions 

    • (1) Reserved spot for keynote session/presentation

    • (2) Complimentary conference registration for staff which include morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea

    • (2) Complimentary tickets to conference networking dinner

    • (1) Trade stall at conference foyer

    • (1) Dedicated newsletter highlight distributed to more than 250,000 email mailing lists

    • Achievement of your organization's RAP deliverables and commitment to reconciliation and fostering corporate social responsibility

• Bronze sponsor $5,000 

  • What's in it for your organization? 

    • Exposure prior and during the conference

    • Organization logo on all conference materials and on conference website

    • Verbal acknowledgment at all plenary sessions 

    • (1) Reserved spot for concurrent session/presentation

    • (1) Complimentary conference registration for staff which include morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea

    • (1) Complimentary ticket to conference networking dinner

    • (1) Trade stall at conference foyer

    • (1) Dedicated newsletter highlight distributed to more than 250,000 email mailing lists

    • Achievement of your organization's RAP deliverables and commitment to reconciliation and fostering corporate social responsibility

BECOME AN EXHIBITOR

Showcase your organisation's commitment to mental health and connect with key stakeholders dedicated to making a difference. This is a prime opportunity to present your innovative solutions, engage directly with professionals and advocates, and expand your network within a passionate community focused on saving lives. By participating, you'll position your organization as a leader in the crucial conversation on suicide prevention, amplifying your impact and fostering collaboration for a healthier future. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this vital movement! ICS offers a discounted rate of $850 for exhibitors. To register, please click EXHIBITOR FORM and complete online. A tax invoice will be generated and emailed to your nominated email address.

Why Attend

This conference presents a unique opportunity for delegates to participate in a positive environment that is dedicated to the sharing of information and the empowering of all who attend. In our everyday working environment the day to day stresses of our positions tends to limit us in expanding our knowledge and networking. Whether you work at a community level or at governmental level the opportunity to network and gain contacts outside of your local region tend to be limited, this is why this conference will be so valuable to participants. Hence, all Indigenous people and non-indigenous people whether professional or community-based, who have a vested interest in juvenile justice are invited.

BENEFITS OF ATTENDING FOR THE EMPLOYER

As an employee, we are asked to present valid reasons why we should attend. Listed below are valid points that can be raised with your employer to justify your attendance: Staff attending conferences regularly tend to become long term employees. An event such as this adds to the positive morale of staff.

• Staff attending conferences regularly tend to become long-term employees.
• An event such as this adds to the positive morale of staff.
• Conferences are a great way of providing ongoing training.
• Provides the opportunity to further enhance the organisation's knowledge base.
• The opportunity for saving organisations money because of the short duration of the event.
• Allows delegates to showcase the organisation nationally and Integratedly.
• May provide organisations with new ideas.
• Gives organisations a showcase and voice at a national level.
• Provide an opportunity to evaluate various programs.
• Because this event is conducted over a short period, staff are only absent for a minimal number of days.

CALLING FOR PAPER

To ensure grassroots community programs are highlighted, no less than 50 per cent of the conference proceedings are and is devoted to community groups. If your paper is selected, you may have more than one presenter to present your paper. However, only two presenters will be entitled to the registration discount. If you are chosen to present at the conference, your paper will form part of the conference proceedings and be distributed at the conclusion of the event with all other presentations.

Guidelines in Submitting Paper:

• Papers should not contain offensive language and take into account cultural sensitivities of Australian first nation people.
• Papers must treat the themes in a manner that contributes to further discussion of conference aims.
• Conference papers must be presented in the finished format not less than 60 days prior to the event.
• Papers that are not chosen in the first round may be resubmitted in the second round.
• Papers MUST be submitted in Microsoft Word format. Papers in other formats will NOT be considered.
• Authors of papers presented at the conference will be formally notified of their acceptance in writing.
• A registration fee of $750 will apply to all persons submitting papers, payable within 7 days upon notification of acceptance.
• Papers should explore ways in which the themes show up in the philosophy of the conference.
• All papers must be presented in a positive and informative light.
• To submit a paper, please complete the online form at this link: SUBMIT A PAPER HERE.
• Conferences are a great way of providing ongoing training and provide the opportunity to further enhance the organisation's knowledge base.
• Allows delegates to showcase the organisation nationally and Integratedly.
• May provide organisations with new ideas and gives organisations a voice at a national/Integrated level.
• Provides an opportunity to evaluate various programs.
• Because this event is conducted over a short period, staff are only absent for a minimal amount of time.

GUEST SPEAKERS

The event is blessed with a kaleidoscope of guest speakers, sharing stories, successes and challenges they’ve overcome, presenting great opportunities and inspiration for delegates to participate in an event that is devoted to the sharing of Culture, Empowerment, Education & Networking. Drawn from a variety of cultural backgrounds, professional careers, and grassroots community commitments, this year’s conference speakers are the difference between an ordinary and extraordinary event; one that is soon forgotten and one which lingers in attendees' memories, a source of tremendous benefit long after the conference is over.

REGISTRATION

Register early to get a discount! 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. Registration fees must be received within 7 DAYS from being issued an invoice. Otherwise, bookings will not be considered. To register, please click on the registration button and complete the form. Upon receipt of your completed registration form, we will email you the tax invoice.

SPONSORING THE CONFERENCE

Flexible sponsorship packages are available. Sponsorship opportunities are only open to businesses and private enterprises, not individuals. To showcase your organisation to all conference delegates, ICS has developed hassle-free promotional opportunities and sponsorship packages according to your budget and tailored to your organisation’s needs.

• Gold Sponsorship ($10,000) includes: Keynote session or Break-out sessions, Waived registration fees for your selected staff, Complimentary seats at networking conference dinner, Complimentary display table & USB with photos for reporting purposes.
• Silver Sponsorship ($7,000) includes: Keynote session, Waived registration fees for your selected staff, Complimentary seats at networking conference dinner, Complimentary display table & USB with photos for reporting purposes.
• Bronze Sponsorship ($5,000) includes: Break-out Session, Waived registration fee for your selected staff, Complimentary Display Table & USB with photos for reporting purposes.

To sponsor the conference, please contact us. Integrated Conference Services (Australia) will be of further assistance in tailoring your sponsorship arrangement. Please phone us on +61 4557 76 668 or send us your expression of interest to admin@icsconferences.org.

CONTACT US

For more information or inquiries, please reach out to us at the following contact details:

• ICS-MEES Pty Ltd
• Integrated Conference Services (Australia)
• Postal Address: P.O. BOX 702 EDMONTON LPO QLD 4869
• Web: www.icsconferences.org
• Email: admin@icsconferences.org
• Phone: 07 40009111, +61 4557 76 668