Open until 17 May 2024

You are invited to submit your proposals for the fourth biennial National Virtual Disability Conference to be held on 25 September 2024.

The theme of the 2024 conference is ‘New Frontiers’.

“We need a ‘new default’ way of thinking and behaving… we need to emphasise what we hope and expect from each other, from every citizen, and to get the best from every citizen and to give the best opportunities to every citizen” – United Nations Special Rapporteur for people with Disabilities, Gerard Quinn. (Royal Commission Public Hearing 31)

We are looking for submissions grounded in best practice and evidence to contribute to the discussion of the future  for people with disability, their place and their role in the community.

Submissions are due 17 May 2024.

Who can submit?

• Individuals and/or small groups including people with disability, policy makers, service providers, practitioners and researchers are invited to submit a proposal.

What content are we looking for?

• We are looking for presentations that fit within the theme ‘New Frontiers’.
• Please be clear about whether this is a research, policy, practice-focused or lived experience presentation, e-poster or discussion.
• Topic ideas or themes could be, but are not limited to:
  • Human rights, and addressing inequality in education, healthcare and political participation
  • Advancing inclusive communities
  • Codesign in research, policy and service practices
  • Systemic advocacy for the future
  • Building a capable and safe workforce
  • NDIS home and living options

• Your presentation should use plain language, so please avoid the use of difficult words or jargon in your submissions.

What can be submitted?

• Proposals for a 15-minute oral presentation. Please note that presentations can be delivered by speech, AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) or Auslan (Australian Sign Language). Pre-recorded presentations will also be considered.
• Proposals for an e-Poster to be released on the conference platform and social media.
• Proposals for a 45-minute panel discussion with up to four Panel members will respond to questions from the session chair and these responses will form the basis of a discussion between the panel and audience members.

Note: Proposals can also be submitted as a video recording. For more information, please email nvd-conference@unimelb.edu.au.

It is expected that all presentations and panels use plain language. Please avoid the use of difficult words or jargon in your proposal.

How to make a submission

To make a submission:

• Click on the 'Submit Proposal' button below;
• Create an Author Account;
• Verify your account by clicking on the link sent to your email (from notifications@eorganiser.com.au);
• Log in to your account;
• Complete your profile where we collect your name, address and organisation;
• Submit your proposal by clicking the button 'Submit Proposal';
• Answer all questions in the submission form and submit.

Note: We will publish names and contact details on the conference website so people can get in touch with you after the conference to find out more about your presentation.