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 Voices, Local Impact Mental Health Conference: Advancing Mental Health Across Borders 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, mental health nurses, social and emotional wellbeing workers, policy makers, nonprofit and NGOs representatives, government officials, community leaders and advocates, individuals with lived experience and family carers. By bringing together these diverse groups, the conference aims to foster collaboration, share best practices, and develop actionable strategies to improve mental health outcomes for individuals and communities.

The conference is dedicated to advancing the conversation around mental well-being and exploring innovative solutions to the challenges faced by individuals and communities. In a world where mental health concerns are increasingly prevalent, this conference serves as a vital platform for professionals, advocates, and community members to come together, share insights, and collaborate on effective strategies for improving mental health care and support.

Delegates will have the opportunity to engage with leading experts through keynote presentations, interactive workshops, and panel discussions that cover a wide range of topics—from breaking the stigma surrounding mental health to exploring trauma-informed care and the impact of technology on well-being. Participants will gain valuable knowledge, practical tools, and resources that can be implemented in their own practices and communities. By fostering a collaborative environment, this conference aims to empower attendees to drive positive change and enhance mental health support systems. 

CONFERENCE THEMES

The conference theme prioritizes the insights and experiences of those living with mental health challenges, fostering a supportive environment focused on advocacy, empowerment, and actionable change.

Building Resilience: Strategies for Mental Well-Being Exploring techniques and practices to foster resilience in individuals and communities facing mental health challenges.

Breaking the Stigma: Promoting Open Conversations Encouraging dialogue around mental health to reduce stigma and promote understanding within communities.

Innovations in Mental Health Care Highlighting new therapies, technologies, and approaches that are transforming mental health treatment and support.

Mindfulness and Mental Health Examining the role of mindfulness practices in enhancing mental well-being and reducing anxiety and stress.

Cultural Competence in Mental Health Services Addressing the importance of cultural sensitivity in mental health care to better serve diverse populations.

Youth Mental Health: Challenges and Solutions Focusing on the unique mental health challenges faced by young people and effective intervention strategies.

Trauma-Informed Care: Healing Through Understanding Understanding the impact of trauma on mental health and exploring trauma-informed approaches to care.

Mental Health and Technology: Navigating the Digital Age Discussing the effects of technology on mental health and how digital tools can be used for support and intervention.

Community Approaches to Mental Health Exploring the role of community support systems and collaboration in promoting mental well-being.

The Intersection of Mental Health and Physical Health Investigating how mental health impacts physical health and vice versa, and promoting holistic care approaches.

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 the voices of individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges

• Foster collaboration among individuals, organizations, and policymakers.

• Develop actionable plans for improving mental health support and advocacy.

• 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 improving mental health & wellbeing such as:

• Individuals with lived experience

• 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

• Students and Trainees

• Families and Caregivers

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: Sharing Stories and Building Understanding

  • 8:30 AM  Registration & Networking

  • 9:00 AM  Welcome to Country & Opening Ceremony 

  • 9:45 AM  Keynote Address: “The Power of Lived Experience”

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

  • 11:00 AM - 11: 45 AM Keynote Session: Voices from the Community

  • 11:45 AM - 12:30 PM Keynote Session: Overcoming stigma, navigating services, and finding hope

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

  • 1:30 PM - 2:15 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

  • 2:15 PM - 3:00 PM Workshops: Empowering Recovery

    • Workshop 1: Self-Care Strategies: Tools for Everyday Life

    • Workshop 2: Navigating the Mental Health System: A Survivor's Guide

    • Workshop 3: Advocacy and Activism: Using Your Voice for Change

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

  • 3:30 PM - 4:15 PM Workshop: Creating Supportive Communities focusing on community resources, peer support, and collaboration

  • 4:15 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: Moving Towards Action and Change

  • 8:30 AM  Registration & Networking

  • 9:00 AM  Keynote Address: Transforming Lived Experience into Action

  • 9:45 AM  Keynote Address: Strategies for turning personal experience into advocacy and community change

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

  • 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM Strategy Sessions: Building a Mental Health Framework

    • Session 1: Policy Change: Influencing Mental Health Legislation

    • Session 2: Education and Awareness: Reducing Stigma in Communities

    • Session 3: Peer Support Models: Strengthening Community 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 Change. 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 continued advocacy and support

  • 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 mental health issues, 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 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