Contend Conference 2026
Description
We believe that every part of our community matters. Financial hardship is one of the places where people are experiencing deep need. It affects far more than finances; it touches physical and emotional well-being, families, relationships and a person’s sense of hope. Many people are carrying financial stress quietly, often alongside shame, isolation and a sense of hopelessness.
We believe God’s promise is to make all things new, and as the pressures around money increase, the Church is invited to respond — not with judgment or quick fixes, but with compassion, wisdom and the hope of Jesus.
Contend Conference 2026
This year, we are partnering with Hope Economy (formerly Christians Against Poverty) to explore how the church can respond faithfully to financial hardship and to the deeper stories that shape how we think about money.
Hope Economy partners with churches across Australia to equip ordinary Jesus followers to walk alongside people experiencing financial distress. Their approach recognises that financial struggles are not only about numbers, they are often connected to our stories, beliefs, habits, relationships and the systems around us.
Together, we will explore how Jesus invites us into a different economy shaped by the values of God’s Kingdom—one marked by generosity, stewardship, dignity and shared life.
Agenda
- 9:00 am
Start / Welcome
- 9:10 am - 9:00 am
9:10 Keynote Speaker
Rosie Kendall, CEO of Hope Economy, will help us explore the deeper realities behind the cost-of-living crisis, the limits of consumerism, and what it means to live Kingdom-shaped lives rather than being formed by fear and scarcity.
- 9:55 am
Panel
Hear from people with different perspectives on financial hardship, community wellbeing and the Kingdom economy as we explore what is happening across the Central Coast, what helps, what can unintentionally cause harm, and why partnership matters.
- 10:50 am
Morning Tea
- 11:10 am
Equipping Workshop
Breakout Sessions A and B*
- 12:45 pm
Lunch
- 1:30 pm
Equipping Workshop
Breakout Sessions A and B*
- 3:00 pm
Contending Prayer
A faithful response to all we’ve heard and learnt. Together, we’ll listen, pray and contend for Kingdom-shaped responses to the real challenges facing our communities.
- 4:30 pm
Close
* Breakout Sessions
* Breakout A – Our Money Story Explore the stories and assumptions that shape our relationship with money, and how culture influences our experiences of security, scarcity, control and generosity. This gently facilitated workshop will help us reflect on our own money story and consider how our financial lives might better align with Kingdom values. Breakout B – Financial First Aid Learn how to recognise and respond wisely when someone is experiencing financial distress. This practical workshop will explore what financial hardship really involves, common mistakes helpers can make, healthy boundaries and referral pathways, and how we can offer support that protects dignity and strengthens capability. Both workshops will run twice, giving everyone the opportunity to participate in both sessions across the day.
Lineup
Rosie Kendal
CEO of Hope Economy
Tara Lamerton
Baptist World Aid Australia
Daniel McPhee
OneBuy
Carly Robinson
Financial Counsellor - Wyong Neighbourhood Centre
FAQs
- Where is the event held?
The event is hosted by Coast Community Church at Tumbi Community Centre, 22 Adelaide Street, Tumbi Umbi. There is plenty of parking, including accessible parking, and the venue is accessible for all. An onsite café will also be available throughout the day.
Getting there: Adelaide Street is just off Wyong Road. Follow Adelaide Street to the Tumbi Community Centre, where onsite parking is available.
- Will there be food on the day?
Your ticket includes morning tea and lunch, catered by our onsite social enterprise café. Our café team is experienced in catering for a range of dietary requirements, allergies and intolerances. Please let us know about any dietary requirements when you register so we can make sure we can cater for you safely.
- Who is the event for?
The event is for anyone with a heart to respond to the growing pressures of financial hardship and a desire to see renewal in our communities. While hosted by Coast Community Church, we’re opening the day to anyone who wants to listen, learn, connect and explore what a faithful response might look like.
- Do I need to attend a church to attend?
No. The day is designed to welcome people from across the community. While the day is grounded in the Christian story and the hope of Jesus, you don’t need to share our faith to participate.
- Can I come on my own?
Absolutely. You don’t need to come as part of a team, church or organisation. Come on your own, meet some people, and join the conversations that interest you.
Gallery
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