Asia Pacific Juvenile Justice Conference

21- 23 May 2025 | Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, Fiji

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 Asia Pacific New Directions in Juvenile Justice Conference is scheduled to be held on May 21 - 23, 2025 at Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort in Fiji, South Pacific. The conference aims to bring together experts, stakeholders, and community members to discuss and develop strategies to prevent young people from entering the justice system, support those who are already involved, and promote reconciliation and healing. The conference is a platform for sharing knowledge, experiences, and best practices, and it provides an opportunity to collaborate and build partnerships to improve the lives of Indigenous youth and their communities.

The conference is also a forum for celebrating youth resilience, strength as well as showcase innovative and inspiring programs that support Indigenous youth to thrive and achieve their potential, such as mentoring, education, art, and sport programs. By highlighting these positive initiatives, the conference will challenge the negative stereotypes and stigmatization of Indigenous youth and promotes a more nuanced and respectful understanding of their experiences and aspirations.

With the invention of the internet, the world is now at most peoples’ door step as such the sharing of information whether it be programs run by government or not-for-profit organisations has become more accessible in today’s society.  As such, the conference endeavours to establish a network for the sharing of information on preventive Juvenile Justice programs. 

The media today sensationalises Juvenile Justice in a negative light to the point we have seen individuals threatening vigilante actions and no viable positive suggestions on how to prevent further escalation. We must always remember that monuments are only erected to the positive and not the negative incidents in our society.

CONFERENCE PHILOSPHY & BELIEFS

The philosophy of the 2025 Asia Pacific New Directions in Juvenile Justice Conference centers around the belief that justice systems must be rooted in the principles of Indigenous cultures and communities. Furthermore, the conference emphasizes the importance of involving Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities in the decision-making process, particularly in cases involving Indigenous youth. This includes recognizing and respecting the role of Elders, community leaders, and cultural experts in the justice system. Overall, the philosophy of the 2025 Asia Pacific New Directions in Juvenile Justice Conference seeks to promote a justice system that is fair, just, and culturally appropriate. It recognizes the unique experiences and perspectives of Indigenous communities and seeks to address the underlying issues that contribute to youth offending through a collaborative and culturally sensitive approach.

In today’s hectic lifestyle we have almost instant news coverage on top of social media platforms 24/7, internet, jet travel and many other modern day technologies that can impact our lives instantly. The foundation of the conference is to share and discuss positive models that we may not be aware of, either in a different town, state or even country. As in most cases our work tends to be focused on the most prevalent issue. Thus preventing and blocking a chance to evaluate the bigger picture of what is taking place in other locations.

It is the conference belief that the wheel does not necessarily need to be reinvented,  as such the sharing of ideas and networking is our most influential weapon in moving forward with sustainable changes. The event is structured in such a way as to develop a wider methodology towards preventative programs that are not just culturally appropriate but community-based initiatives. This conference is devoted to showing the positives in addressing Juvenile Justice issues. Hence, the event has been developed with the belief that it is time to promote the positives and successes in Juvenile Justice programs, whilst still recognising that we still have a long way to go.  

CONFERENCE AIMS & OBJECTIVES 

The conference objectives are designed to empower and stimulate discussion in a positive manner that can and may be used back in our work environment to further develop effective community justice programs. Moreover one of the most powerful objectives that Indigenous people 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 to

  • Reduce incidence of Juvenile Justice at all levels.

  • Provide an open and frank forum for discussion.

  • Lend support to individuals and families working in the field of Family and Juvenile Justice.

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

  • Exchange information regarding the successes of community projects. 

  • To bring together men, women and organizations as a united voice against Juvenile Justice

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

  • Networking and lend support to individuals and groups working in the field of Juvenile Justice. 

CONFERENCE THEME

The key themes of the 2025 Asia Pacific New Directions in Juvenile Justice Conference is the need for a holistic approach to youth justice that acknowledges and addresses the underlying causes of offending, such as intergenerational trauma, poverty, and discrimination. The conference highlights the importance of involving Indigenous communities and Elders in the justice process, as they have a deep understanding of the cultural and social factors that contribute to youth offending. By engaging with Indigenous perspectives and knowledge, the conference aims to promote culturally appropriate and effective responses to youth offending that prioritize prevention and rehabilitation over punishment.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

  • Juvenile Justice workers

  • Community groups

  • Family relationship workers

  • Community leaders

  • Indigenous women and men’s groups

  • Psychologists, Social Workers, NGOs

  • Women groups, Human Rights Enthusiasts

  • Nurses / Doctors/ Psychiatrists, Police Officers

  • People who are interested in combating Juvenile Justice

  • Government Representatives, Community Leaders

  • Consultants / Legal Professionals

  • Juvenile Justice Field Workers, Teachers

YOUR INVITATION

We wish to invite Indigenous and non-Indigenous people from Australia and throughout to attend the conference to share and gather information. We also extend an invitation to participants to join us at the conference dinner in a relaxed atmosphere.

 To ensure that delegates attend and participate, it is important to note that to show accountability of delegates in meeting their obligation; each delegate will receive a Certificate of Attendance only when they attend 85% of all the conference sessions. In addition, delegates will receive an electronic copy of all papers & presentations presented at the conference.

  • Who: Individuals, Groups, NGO’s, Government Agencies & Others

  • When: 21st to 23rd May 2025

  • Where:  Sheraton Fiji Resort 

  • Time: 8.30am – 4.30pm

  • Conference Networking Dinner: Sail Restaurant Fiji

WARNING: Limited availability. Please register online or contact us via email, should you have any further queries.

CONFERENCE NETWORKING DINNER

As they say, all work and no play, makes for a dull conference. So to overcome this, the conference secretary has organized a conference dinner to be held on the second night of the event. This dinner with give delegates the opportunity to further network whilst letting your hair down in an informal setting. The conference dinner will be at a cost of $200 per person for a three course meal. The conference dinner is additional to the conference fees and bookings must be made prior to the event.

TRAVEL 

One of the prohibitive factors in attending a conference is the airfare component. Our company strives in making our event a lesser burden on the individual or organisation by negotiating competitive and affordable travel packages. Indigenous Conference Services (Australia) also recognises that some NGO’s or other agencies will need to seek additional funding to attend, therefore First Nations Travel Agency quotation can be made out to either pay ASAP or to consider the time that is required to obtain funding. For the best possible airfares and seat availability, please confirm your attendance ASAP. All of our booking is made through First Nations Travel, a new 100% indigenous owned travel agency here to make booking your flights stress free and relaxing for an enquiry please phone us on +61740009111 or send us your expression of interest by email through our Contact Page.

VENUE & ACCOMMODATION 

Fiji is an archipelago of more than 300 islands. It's famed for rugged landscapes, palm-lined beaches and coral reefs with clear lagoons. In 2025, the beating heart of Fiji awaits you on Denarau Island into our conference venue, Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, a multi-award-winning Fijian-owned resort. Renowned for its infamous ‘Cola Vina’ (Welcome) echoing far and wide across the resort, welcoming guests to the rhythmic beats of the “Lali” (Fijian drum) and a big BULA from friendly local hosts. Immerse into a symphony of unforgettable experiences whether lounging on beaches, teeing off at the 18-hole Championship Golf Course, playing a hand of tennis, savouring delicious cuisines and local sustainable dining options, swimming in lagoon-style pools, rejuvenate at its sister-spa, explore Fiji’s culture, or edu-taining kids club where every moment resonates with island vibrancy.

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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