This year marks a pivotal moment for social work in Australia and globally. We have witnessed remarkable strides, including a concerted campaign to make social workers a registered profession in Australia, in line with many other nations. Our collective aim, as always, is to elevate the standards of our profession and foster growth.

Hosting over 1000 national and international delegates, this Conference provides a unique platform to exchange insights on the current challenges and trends in the social work sector. I look forward to forging new connections, learning from leading experts, and exploring the latest ideas available. Take a look at the Call for Abstracts available on the website that will give delegates the opportunity to be involved in the shaping of the program and have the unique opportunity to present in front of an international audience.

Our aspirations for this Conference extend beyond the sessions. We seek to cultivate stronger relationships with fellow social workers and professional associations worldwide. Recognising the significance of collaboration, the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) acknowledges the potential for professionals in practice, leadership, academia, research, and social work students to come together. Networking is a big attraction for many, and I am looking forward to renewing connections and making new ones; please feel free to say hello if you see me around.

I am also excited about the diverse range of sessions planned, covering mental health, social work in private practice, child, youth, and family services, disability management, family, domestic, and gendered violence, counselling and therapy, aged care/older persons, child protection, addiction, alcohol, social justice, and human rights.

I look forward to engaging with you in these sessions throughout the Conference. Your attendance and contributions are integral to the success of this event, and I am confident that together, we will make this a memorable and impactful experience.

See you there!