Victorian AOD Service Providers Conference 2025: Centring Communities in Our Response

From Policy to People: Centring Communities in Our Response

For the Victorian alcohol and other drugs sector, getting policy right is absolutely critical. From drug checking and public intoxication to bold plans and strategies, thoughtfully designed and responsive policy can enable access, equity, and dignity for people affected by alcohol and other drugs—while poor policy risks deepening harm and disconnection.

Join us at this year’s AOD Service Providers Conference as we explore how to better align policy with the needs and voices of those it ultimately affects. Just as we work to translate policy evidence into meaningful, person-centred practice, we must also work in reverse—ensuring that the experiences and aspirations of people with lived and living experience are not only heard but are central to shaping future policy directions.

From Policy to People reflects the importance of bridging the gap between public policy making and the realities faced by individuals, families, and communities impacted by alcohol and other drugs. The program will feature keynote speakers addressing aspects of this process, along with breakout sessions that explore the theme in more detail and in relation to specific cohorts and contexts.

As always, the conference provides a valuable opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, share insights, and strengthen networks across the AOD sector. More detail on speakers and presentations to follow.

 

More details on speakers and presentations to follow.

The Service Providers Conference is a free event for workers in the Victorian Alcohol and Other Drugs sector. Please note: a ticket cancellation policy now applies, see below for more details:

Ticket Cancellation Policy

This event is free to attend; however, to ensure fair access and prevent unnecessary catering waste, the following cancellation policy applies:

1. Cancellations: If you can no longer attend, you must cancel or transfer your ticket to someone else at least 7 days before the event. Cancellations made within 7 days must include a valid reason for withdrawal.

2. No-Show Fee: A $50 no-show fee will be charged to registered attendees who do not attend and fail to cancel or transfer their ticket before the event.

3. How to Cancel: Manage your ticket from the email you receive with your ticket attached.  Scroll down the email and click on Manage.  Edit your ticket or transfer it to someone else.  Remember to check your junk mail folder if you do not receive your ticket.

By registering for this event, you agree to these terms.


Event info

Accommodation:

If you are planning on staying in Melbourne either before or post the conference, the Catholic Leadership Centre (CLC) offers generous conference rates. For more information and details on how to book click here and make sure to mention that you are attending the Victorian AOD Service Providers Conference so that our special conference rate is applied.

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Please Note:

1. The Service Providers Conference is a popular event.  Please ensure that you register your attendance.  See the ticket cancellation policy above
2. If you can't attend, you can cancel your registration to make a spot available for someone else.  A waitlist will be made available should the event reach capacity.  
3. While we make every endeavour to ensure allergies are considered, we can only offer gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan food at this event.

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Getting there:

Tram
From Flinders St walk to Collins St and take the 12 or 109 tram to Hoddle St.
From Southern Cross Station jump on the 12 or 109 at Collins St.

Train
From Flinders St or Southern Cross station, take the Hurstbridge or Mernda line to North Richmond Station. Walk 3 minutes from the station towards Hoddle St.

Bus
From Flinders St or Southern Cross Station, walk to Lonsdale St and take the 309, 304, 907, 906 or 246 bus to Cromwell St. Walk 2 mins to the CLC.

Parking:

Wilson Parking
410 Albert St East Melbourne. Book an online Flexi Saver ticker for $26.00 (19-minute walk or 6min tram ride down Victoria Pde)

CarePark
79 Victoria Pde, Collingwood. $24.00 (13 minutes walk or 3-minute tram ride down Victoria Pde)

CarePark
35 Elizabeth St Richmond $14.00 all-day parking if in before 10am and out before 6pm (5-minute walk)

Street parking
Metred parking is available.
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VAADA acknowledges the support of the Victorian State Government