25/08/2026
Day 1 of the ISPCAN Melbourne Congress kicked off yesterday, and what a start it was. The keynote from Prof Robbie Gilligan set the tone, "Reimagining our Models of Child Protection: Towards Stronger and Safer Children," followed by sessions exploring an ethic of care over domination, participation and youth voice in decision-making, and transforming approaches to out-of-home care and youth justice.
A standout moment came from the CREATE Foundation's session "From Lived Experience to System Change," where young consultants Crystal and Anna spoke alongside Practice Manager Blair about relational practice and what genuine youth participation looks like in out-of-home care. The research is clear: young people consistently report they're not given real opportunities to participate in decisions that affect them, even though workers across the board say it's a priority. Sessions like this are why we keep showing up.
We wrapped the day with a networking event at Sea Life Melbourne, connecting with fellow delegates over sharks, rays, turtles, and a very unbothered crocodile.
Grateful for a day full of insight, connection, and reminders of why this work matters.
