The 2025 Global Suicide Prevention Conference: Voices of Hope, Empowering Communities

01- 03 October 2025 | Gold Coast, QLD

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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”.

International 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 Suicide Prevention Conference: Voices of Hope, Empowering Communities is scheduled to be held at the Hilton Hotel on the Gold Coast QLD Australia on October 1-3, 2025 which brings together mental health professionals, social workers, educators, school counselors, teachers, administrators, healthcare providers, physicians, nurses, and public health officials, crisis intervention specialists, individuals working in hotlines, crisis centers, and emergency services, researchers and academics scholars studying suicide prevention, mental health, and related fields, policy makers, nonprofit and NGOs representatives, government officials, community leaders and advocates, survivors and family members. By bringing together these diverse groups, the conference aims to foster collaboration, share best practices, and develop actionable strategies to effectively prevent suicide and support those in crisis.

This conference is a crucial gathering aimed at addressing one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time. With rising rates of suicide impacting communities worldwide, this conference serves as a vital platform for professionals, advocates, and community members to come together to share knowledge, resources, and strategies for effective prevention. Our mission is to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and foster a collaborative approach to creating a world where every individual feels supported and valued.

Delegates will have the opportunity to engage with leading experts in mental health, crisis intervention, and community support through keynote speeches, interactive workshops, and panel discussions. Topics will range from understanding the complexities of suicidal behavior to exploring innovative prevention programs and effective intervention techniques. Participants will leave equipped with practical tools and insights that can be implemented within their workplace, organisations and communities, fostering a culture of understanding and support around mental health.

CONFERENCE THEMES

The conference theme guides the conference proceedings and provides a comprehensive approach to the critical issue of suicide prevention such as:

  • Survivors’ Voices: Lessons from Loss

    • Providing a platform for individuals who have lost loved ones to suicide to share their experiences and insights for prevention

  • Understanding the Complexities of Suicidal Behavior

    • Exploring the psychological, social, and cultural factors that contribute to suicidal ideation and behavior.

  • Building Resilience: Strategies for Prevention

    • Focusing on methods to foster resilience in individuals and communities as a protective factor against suicide.

  • Crisis Intervention: Effective Approaches & Technique

    • Sharing best practices for immediate response and support.

  • The Role of Mental Health in Suicide Prevention

    • Examining the connection between mental illness and suicidal behavior, and promoting integrated care models.

  • Youth and Suicide: Addressing the Growing Concern

    • Highlighting unique challenges faced by young people and exploring targeted prevention strategies.

  • Community Engagement: Grassroots Approaches to Prevention

    • Discussing the importance of community involvement and local initiatives in suicide prevention efforts.

  • Reducing Stigma: Promoting Open Conversations

    • Strategies for creating safe spaces to discuss mental health and suicide without judgment.

  • Digital Support: Technology's Role in Prevention

    • Exploring how digital tools and platforms can be leveraged for outreach, support, and education.

  • Cultural Competence in Suicide Prevention

    • Addressing the need for culturally sensitive approaches to support diverse populations effectively.

CONFERENCE OBJECTIVES

The overarching aim for the conference is to assist with the journey of healing and to act as an open and frank discussion and forum where not just ideas are shared but also developing actionable plans to highlight to the governments that our journey is far from complete. The conference will undoubtedly be educational, inspirational, eye-opening, thought-provoking, initiates brisk debate and certainly provides plenty of opportunities for food for thought and to: 

  • Provide an open and frank forum to elevate community voices in the conversation around suicide prevention

  • Foster collaboration among individuals, organisations, and policymakers as a united voice in suicide prevention

  • Develop actionable plans to create safer, supportive environments for all

  • Highlight inspiring initiatives, successes and challenges faced by mental health workers, interventionists to suicide, survivors and families

  • Bring together both government and non-government agencies working in the field of mental health and suicide prevention sectors

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

The conference is designed for a wide range of participants dedicated to addressing and preventing suicide such as:

  • Mental Health Professionals (Psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors, and therapists)

  • Social Workers Practitioners 

  • Educators and School Counselors (Teachers, administrators, and school mental health professionals)

  • Healthcare Providers (Doctors, nurses, primary care professional, public health officials)  

  • Crisis Intervention Specialists

  • Researchers and Academics

  • Policy Makers and Government Officials

  • Nonprofit and NGO Representatives

  • Community Leaders and Advocates

  • Survivors and Family Members

CONFERENCE AGENDA

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

  • DAY 1 KEY THEME: Understanding the Crisis and Sharing Experiences

    • 8:30 AM  Registration & Networking

    • 9:00 AM  Welcome to Country & Opening Ceremony 

    • 9:45 AM  Keynote Address: “Voices of Resilience: Stories from the Community”

    • 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Morning Tea - Networking and resource sharing 

    • 11:00 - 12:30 PM Panel Discussion: Understanding the Factors Behind Suicide (Cultural influences, stigma & systemic barriers perspectives from  mental health professionals, community leaders, and individuals with lived experience)

    • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch Break - Networking and resource sharing 

    • 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Workshops: Community-Led Solutions

      • Workshop 1: Building Resilience: Strategies for Individuals and Families

      • Workshop 2: Creating Safe Spaces: Support Groups and Community Resources

      • Workshop 3: Engaging Youth: Empowering Young People to Lead

    • 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM Afternoon Tea - Networking and resource sharing 

    • 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM Roundtable Discussions: Collaborating for Change

      • Facilitated discussions on effective community initiatives and support systems

      • Identifying local resources and opportunities for collaboration

    • 4:30 PM - Day 1 Wrap-Up Summary of key insights and takeaways & Preview of Day 2 activities

    • 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM Conference Networking Dinner 

  • Day 2 KEY THEME: Developing Actionable Plans

    • 8:30 AM  Registration & Networking

    • 9:00 AM  Keynote Address: Moving from Awareness to Action

    • 9:45 AM  Keynote Address: Strategies for effective community engagement and action

    • 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Morning Tea - Networking and resource sharing 

    • 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM Strategy Sessions: Building Comprehensive Action Plans

      • Session 1: Policy Advocacy: Influencing Change at the Local Level

      • Session 2: Mental Health Education: Training Community Members

      • Session 3: Crisis Response: Developing Local Support Networks

    • 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Lunch Break - Networking and resource sharing 

    • 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM Action Plan Presentations  

      • Community teams present their developed action plans for suicide prevention

      • Feedback session from peers and facilitators

    • 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM Afternoon Tea - Networking and resource sharing 

    • 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM Commitment Ceremony: Pledge for Prevention. Participants sign a commitment to implement proposed initiatives and reflections on shared goals and responsibilities

    • 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM Summary of conference highlights, Acknowledgments & Call to action for ongoing collaboration

    • End of Conference

  • Day 3 (Optional) Become an Interventionist to Suicide 

    • 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Post-Conference Masterclass: Indigenous Led Trauma-Informed Care & Suicide Prevention

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 $750 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 internationally.
  • 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 internationally.
  • May provide organisations with new ideas and gives organisations a voice at a national/international 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. International 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:

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