FAQs
GENERAL INFORMATION
What is the 4th Australia and New Zealand Refugee Trauma Recovery in Resettlement Conference?
This is a bi-national, sector-leading conference focused on refugee trauma recovery and resettlement practice, policy, research, and lived experience. It brings together practitioners, researchers, community leaders, and government stakeholders from across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.
When and where is the Conference being held?
The Conference will take place 4-6 May 2026 at the ICC Sydney, in the heart of the Sydney CBD.
Who is organising the Conference?
The Conference is hosted by STARTTS (NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors) on behalf of the Forum of Australian Services for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (FASSTT).
How many people are expected to attend?
We anticipate between 800–900 delegates, based on previous conferences in Sydney, Brisbane, and Adelaide.
Is the Conference open to the public?
Yes, anyone working in or interested in refugee trauma recovery, mental health, human rights, or community development is welcome to attend.
Where can I go for updates on the Conference?
You can subscribe to our conference newsletter here for updates on speakers, workshops and more!
REGISTRATION & PAYMENT
How do I register for the Conference?
You can register online via our website. Once registration opens, you will find a “Register Now” button on the homepage and key pages throughout the site.
What is included in my registration fee?
Full registration includes access to all plenary and breakout sessions, catering for all days of attendance, access to the conference app, and materials. Some events such as the Gala Dinner or Pre-Conference Workshops require additional tickets.
Can I register for just one day?
Yes. Workshop only and two-day conference passes will be available for purchase.
What happens if I need to cancel my registration?
Cancellations must be submitted in writing. A cancellation policy, including deadlines and refund amounts, will be clearly outlined during the registration process.
Can someone else attend in my place?
Yes. Substitutions are allowed but must be confirmed in writing prior to the event. Further restrictions are outlined in registration Terms and Conditions.
Will I receive a tax invoice?
Yes. A tax invoice will be issued automatically upon completing your registration.
What are my payment options?
You can pay online through the registration page on this website or you can opt to have an invoice sent to you so you can pay with direct deposit (we must receive payment prior to start of conference).
ABSTRACT SUBMISSION
How do I submit an abstract?
Abstracts can be submitted online through our abstract submission portal. Submission guidelines and themes will be available on the conference website.
What is a double-blind review?
Double-blind peer review means the identity of both the author and the reviewer is kept anonymous during the review process. This helps reduce unconscious bias.
Who will be reviewing my abstract?
Abstracts will be reviewed by a diverse committee of experts from across FASSTT agencies and partner organisations.
Can I submit more than one abstract?
Yes. You may submit multiple abstracts for different topics or formats (e.g. oral presentation, poster).
Will my abstract be published?
Accepted abstracts will be published in the official conference program and made available via the conference app.
If my abstract is accepted will I need to pay to present?
Authors whose abstracts are accepted will be expected to arrange and pay for their own travel, accommodation and conference registration. Authors who wish to apply for a scholarship (travel grant) to the conference will be provided with the link to the application portal upon acceptance of their abstract.
TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATION
Is accommodation included in my registration?
Is accommodation included in my registration?
No. Accommodation is not included in registration. However, we will provide a list of preferred hotels close to the ICC Sydney with special rates for conference delegates.
Will there be support for international delegates?
A limited number of scholarships are available for delegates who have had abstracts accepted. Application information will be circulated following the review of submitted abstracts. We recommend international delegates begin visa applications as early as possible.
Which airport should I fly into?
Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) is the closest airport, approximately 25 minutes from the conference venue.
How do I get to ICC Sydney?
ICC Sydney is accessible by train (Town Hall or Central Stations), light rail, ferry, and taxi. Directions and maps will be provided on our website.
ON THE DAY
Is there a conference app available?
Yes. The official app, titled “Shared Knowledge, Shared Healing”, is available on both Android and iOS. It allows you to plan your itinerary, view session details, and connect with other attendees.
What should I wear to the conference?
Smart casual, cultural or professional attire is recommended. Bring layers, venue air-conditioning may vary throughout the day.
Will there be catering?
Yes. Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea will be provided daily for registered delegates. Please indicate any dietary requirements when registering.
Will the event be COVID-safe?
Yes. We will follow all relevant health guidelines at the time of the event and will communicate any requirements or changes as they arise.
Is the venue accessible?
Yes. ICC Sydney is fully wheelchair accessible. If you have specific accessibility needs, please let us know during registration.
NETWORKING & SOCIAL EVENTS
Are there social events as part of the conference?
Yes! We will be enjoying some wonderful social events during the conference - A Pre-Conference Welcome Reception is included in your registration cost and you can elect to attend the Gala Dinner on Day 2 by opting in for the dinner during registration (or you can buy your tickets later).
Will I be able to connect with other delegates?
Absolutely. The conference app enables networking, and there will be plenty of informal and structured opportunities to meet others throughout the event.
Are there social events as part of the conference?
Yes! We will be enjoying some wonderful social events during the conference - A Pre-Conference Welcome Reception is included in your registration cost and you can elect to attend the Gala Dinner on Day 2 by opting in for the dinner during registration (or you can buy your tickets later).
Will I be able to connect with other delegates?
Absolutely. The conference app enables networking, and there will be plenty of informal and structured opportunities to meet others throughout the event.
SPONSORS
Can my organisation sponsor the conference?
Yes! We welcome sponsorship interest. Please visit our sponsorship page to download the prospectus or email us at conference26@startts.org.au
Can my organisation sponsor the conference?
Yes! We welcome sponsorship interest. Please visit our sponsorship page to download the prospectus or email us at conference26@startts.org.au
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
How can media get in touch?
Media outlets can get in touch with the STARTTS PR & Communications Officer at nehad.kenanie@health.nsw.gov.au
OTHER QUESTIONS
Will sessions be recorded?
Select sessions will be recorded and made available post-event via the conference website or app (subject to presenter approval).
Will there be Wi-Fi at the venue?
Will there be Wi-Fi at the venue?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi will be available for all registered delegates.
Can I bring my children to the event?
This is a professional event and we ask that children not attend sessions.
Who can I contact for more information?
For all conference enquiries, please contact:
Kate Gallant – kathryn.gallant@health.nsw.gov.au
4th Australia and New Zealand Refugee Trauma Recovery in Resettlement Conference
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