07/10/2026
opened this morning with a Welcome to Country from Edwin Fejo and traditional dance performance.
The speakers of our opening session offered a powerful and wide-ranging discussion on the systemic issues shaping housing outcomes for First Nations peoples. Commissioner Sue-Anne Hunter told delegates the challenge before us is to act on what we already know, and our job is change how decisions get made and who gets to make them. Professor Kerry Arabena then led a panel discussion with two young women with lived experience of homelessness and service leaders that explored what young people need to thrive, and what services need to deliver it.
"One opportunity can really change the trajectory of a young person's life," - Alkira William - Foyer Foundation.
Sue-Anne Hunter - National Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Children and Young People, Tina Ugle - Noongar Mia Mia - First Nations Housing Provider, Leonie Pickett - Noongar Mia Mia, Alkira Williams - Foyer Foundation, Layla Campbell-Cook - Foyer Foundation, Professor Kerry Arabena - Karabena Consulting Trust