About Australian Winter School 2026 (AWS 2026)

The Australian Winter School has built a reputation over more than 30 years for delivering a high quality program of the latest developments in emerging issues and the latest developments in harm reduction and the treatment of alcohol and other drug (AOD) related problems.

This national forum supports workers, clinicians and policy makers in the sector to develop skills and knowledge in responding to and treating alcohol and drug-related issues.

The conference is run over three days and features pre-conference workshops, keynote speakers, breakout presentations and panel discussions to explore ideas and provide delegates with the tips, tools and solutions to:

build capacity around implementing evidence informed practice
examine the key components of successful and effective alcohol and other drugs harm reduction and treatment interventions
develop an understanding of the latest innovations, good practice and continuous improvement
discuss ways to influence policy and the important role of research and evaluation

Presentations address practice, policy and treatment areas, as well as population trends, early intervention and prevention and the issue of co-morbidity. The content provides professional development for alcohol and other drug workers, clinicians and policy makers to support their knowledge and understanding of contemporary practice.

The theme for the 2026 Australian Winter School AOD Conference is 'Risky Business: IYKYK'.

Picking up on the current vibe of 90’s nostalgia, we are highlighting the inherently risky business of the AOD sector across research, policy, treatment and harm reduction relating to alcohol and other drugs (if you know, you know).

With a focus on innovative practice and new ideas, the conference will have something for everyone.

Our workforce – increasing skills, knowledge, and collaboration potential while gaining greater awareness of trends and issues to develop your practice and career potential.
External partners – connecting and sharing with health and other professionals whose work intersects with the AOD treatment space.
The community – exchanging views and experiences on how the AOD sector has been and is responsive to challenges and needs to identify opportunities that enhance recovery experiences for people and their families.

The conference will be held at Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from 19 to 21 August 2026. Please note that pre-conference workshops will be held on 19 August, followed by the two-day Winter School Conference on 20-21 August.

Australian Winter School is presented by the Queensland Network of Alcohol and Other Drug Agencies (QNADA).

Contact the host of Australian Winter School Conference 2026