FIRST NATIONS THERAPEUTIC RESPONSES SUMMIT 2026
KWY'S 5th Biennial National Conference
The First Nations Therapeutic Responses Summit 2026: Creating a Space for Innovation
18-20 March | Adelaide Oval, South Australia, Kaurna Country
KWY is proud to invite you to the 2026 First Nations Therapeutic Responses Summit — a dynamic, three-day gathering designed to share transformative ideas and deepen culturally responsive practice for Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence and Child Protection systems within First Nations communities.
Hosted on the banks of Karrawirra Parri (River Torrens) at the Adelaide Oval, this year’s summit carries the powerful theme “Creating a Space for Innovation.” It’s a call to action — to challenge systems, elevate First Nations ways of doing and build lasting solutions that create real change.
At the heart of the Summit is a commitment to hands-on learning, connection and collective growth. Attendees will leave with practical tools, renewed energy and a clearer path to implementing effective, community-led therapeutic responses. Our carefully curated program brings together trailblazers from across Australia and Aotearoa (New Zealand), offering a rich mix of perspectives and wisdom.
What to expect:
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Captivating keynote speakers who are reshaping the landscape of therapeutic responses
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Candid, challenging panel conversations exploring bold solutions
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Immersive sessions and workshops designed to motivate and enhance your practice
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Breakout spaces for deep dives into emerging practices, cultural frameworks, and lived experiences
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Opportunities to connect with like-minded practitioners and leaders
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Culturally safe space to pause, recharge and reconnect throughout the Summit
Need support to attend this event?
Download our ready-to-use Professional Development Request Template to share with your manager or workplace and secure support for your participation.
About the design
This year’s design was created in collaboration with Ngarrindjeri and Kaurna man Craig Rigney, inspired by the Kaurna people’s connection to the River Torrens (Karrawirra Pari) and its significance as a meeting place. Abstract shapes trace the river’s topography, while dotted linework symbolises paths travelled across Country. A palette inspired by saltbush, earth, ochre and rock grounds the design, creating a calm, reflective space that invites collaboration, innovation and new ways of thinking.
TICKETS
Last year’s summit sold out quickly - act fast to secure discounted early bird tickets available online now for a limited time!
PARTNER WITH PURPOSE
Be a part of Creating a Space for Innovation.
The 2026 First Nations Therapeutic Responses Summit offers a powerful opportunity for your organisation to stand alongside KWY in supporting the safety, wellbeing, and empowerment of Aboriginal families and communities.
By becoming a sponsor, you’ll gain meaningful exposure to a diverse network of over 400 delegates — including community leaders, practitioners, policy-makers and change-makers from across Australia and New Zealand — while visibly demonstrating your commitment to social impact and reconciliation.
Whether you’re looking to elevate your brand, connect with key decision-makers or align with a cause that matters, our sponsorship packages are tailored to offer strategic value and authentic partnership.
Download the sponsorship prospectus or register to partner with KWY through the buttons below.
2024 SUMMIT HIGHLIGHTS
From 25–27 September 2024, the sold-out KWY National Aboriginal Child Safety, Family and Domestic Violence Summit brought together changemakers from across the country at Adelaide Oval, on Kaurna Country. This powerful three-day gathering, held under the theme “Creating a Space for Change,” was a platform for courageous conversations and community-led solutions, with a strong focus on system reform, Aboriginal-led research and culturally grounded, therapeutic responses.
Keynotes from leaders including Commissioner Micaela Cronin, Dr Tracy Westerman AM, Stan Grant and Aunty Muriel Bamblett challenged systems and inspired action, while dynamic panel discussions explored systemic reform, community resilience and hopes for future generations. Breakout sessions highlighted the impactful work of organisations such as VACCA, Yalu Aboriginal Corporation, SAHMRI, Lifeline and SNAICC, alongside critical research and legislative insights shared by Commissioners April Lawrie and Natalie Lewis.
The 2024 Summit left a lasting impact, equipping attendees with the tools, knowledge and renewed passion to lead community-driven change and uphold the safety, dignity and rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and children.
But don’t just take our word for it — here’s what past attendees had to say about their Summit experience:
FAQ AND EVENT INFORMATION
Summit Registration
Early Bird Sales
Tickets are on sale now with early bird pricing of $1,119 + GST. Early bird sales end 31 October or earlier if the allocation sells out.
Group Discounts
Groups of 5 or more can receive 5% off. To access this discount, please email summit@kwy.org
before registering online.
What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket gives you access to all 3 days of the Summit, including:
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Catering
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Keynote sessions
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Workshops
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Welcome Function
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Wellbeing room access
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Goodie bag
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And more
Are day passes available?
No. The Summit is designed as a 3-day learning journey, so tickets are only sold as a full event pass.
Is the Welcome Function included in my registration?
Yes. The Welcome Function is included in your Summit ticket. You’ll be asked to RSVP when purchasing tickets so we can confirm catering numbers.
Is the FOCUS Awards included in my registration?
No. The FOCUS Awards are a separate event. Tickets must be purchased separately.
Can I change the name on my ticket?
Yes. Name changes are accepted up until 18 February (one month prior to the event). Please email changes to summit@kwy.org.au
2024 SUMMIT PHOTOS
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