Attendees will experience a blend of plenary sessions and concurrent workshops across the two days of the conference.

The conference is augmented by a series of hybrid immersion sessions, complimentary for attendees as part of the broader program. These sessions are geared towards equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to, individually and collectively, deliver solutions which improve social cohesion and the lives of the people they work with.

Social cohesion and democratic resilience in an uncertain world
October 29 2024

The first day will set the scene by exploring the concept of social cohesion, including the factors shaping social cohesion in the local and global context. These include political representation, community participation and a cohesive service system.

Strength in unity: cohesion as a democratic cornerstone
October 30 2024

The second day will explore the importance of social cohesion and democratic resilience in contemporary Australia. It will identify and unpack some of the critical threats to social cohesion and democratic resilience, including the rise of misinformation, expressions of racist and extremist ideology locally and globally as well as increased scrutiny and distrust in government.

Immersion Sessions: Developing the skills required for social cohesion
October – November 2024

Standalone, hybrid ‘Immersion Sessions’ will focus on the practical skills and capabilities required for fostering social cohesion and democratic resilience. These immersion sessions will develop and hone critical skillsets for the cross-section of delegates, focusing on tangible actions and change.