Congress Theme

Theme: Together we can: celebrating diversity and inclusion.

Streams:

  1. Health and therapeutic advances: This stream focuses on the latest research and clinical developments related to Down syndrome, including new therapies, global health equity and approaches that can improve the health and quality of life of people with Down syndrome across the lifespan.
  2. Education and employment: This stream highlights innovative approaches to education and ways to promote inclusion of learners with Down syndrome in all aspects of learning, from early childhood through to adulthood. This stream also considers transitions within and beyond education settings and ways to foster successful careers.
    Stream sponsored by
  3. Advocacy and social inclusion: This stream addresses issues related to disability rights (such as the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities), public policy, inclusion in all aspects of community life and approaches to effective self-advocacy. It also includes leadership and governance within our organisations.
    Stream sponsored by
  4. Family life: This stream explores family quality of life, including strategies for providing emotional and practical support; sibling interests; accessing community resources; and supporting families locally and globally.
  5. Personal development: This stream focuses on the social and emotional development of individuals with Down syndrome across the lifespan. This stream includes involvement in cultural life, recreation, leisure and sport; strategies for building self-esteem, fostering relationships, healthy ageing and developing self-reliance.
    Stream sponsored by

Abstract Topics

  • Health and well-being
  • Advocacy
  • Inclusive research
  • Employment
  • Accommodation
  • Literacy
  • Maths Inclusive education
  • Immigration
  • Arts

*In each part of the program, there will be activities and sessions relevant for adults with Down syndrome to attend.

Please click on the program below to view more information.

Time Monday 8 July 2024
Pre-congress
Tuesday 9 July 2024
Pre-congress
Wednesday 10 July 2024
Day 1
Thursday 11 July 2024
Day 2
Friday 12 July 2024
Day 3
09:00-09:30 Health Professionals & Researchers Day Meeting Pre-Congress Self-Advocates Forum Welcome ceremony Day 2 starter Day 3 starter
09:30-10:30 Keynote Session
Sir Robert Martin
Ms Charlotte Woodward
Keynote/Panel Session - hearing from adults with Down syndrome
Mr Alastair McEwin AM
Chair: Prof Roy McConkey
10:30-11:00 Morning tea
11:00-11:55 Keynote Session
Dr Brian Skotko MD, MPP
Choice of Concurrent Sessions Choice of Concurrent Sessions
12:05-13:00 Choice of Concurrent Sessions Choice of Concurrent Sessions Choice of Concurrent Sessions
13:00-14:00 Lunch
14:00-14:30 Pre-Congress Self Advocates – Meet & Greet Posters Posters Posters
14:30-15:30 Choice of Concurrent Sessions Choice of Concurrent Sessions Keynote Session
Prof Nora Shields
15:30-16:00 Afternoon tea
16:00-16:30 Plenary Session
Dr Catherine Franklin
Prof Ernst Wolvetang
Dr Kathy Cologon
Prof Iva Strnadova
Plenary Session
A/Prof Jasneek Chawla
MIT Alana Down Syndrome
Dr Katie Novak
Prof Cameron Parsell
Closing ceremony
16:30-17:00
17:00-17:30
Evening Welcome Reception Poster Reception Congress Dinner

Childcare Facilities & Program for School Aged Children

During the online registration process, registrants will be asked whether they would require additional childcare facilities for persons not attending the Congress as a registered delegate. Childcare facilities and a program for school-aged children may be available, based on interest.