2025 National Conference Call for Abstracts

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THEME

"Inspired by the Past, Visions for the Future"

Driving Innovation, Sustainability & a Lasting Legacy for our Industry.

As we approach the centenary of Parks & Leisure Australia, which traces its origins to the formation of the Victorian Tree Planters Association in April 1926, the 2025 PLA National Conference – Inspired by the Past, Visions for the Future – will celebrate the profound contributions of our sector and the remarkable innovations and initiatives introduced by our members.

Building on this rich history, the conference will explore both current and future challenges, showcasing creative and forward-thinking solutions that will shape the next century of parks, open spaces, and leisure.

With this historic milestone in mind, we warmly invite you to join us in Hobart for the 2025 National Conference. Your participation offers the chance to share insights and innovations, expand your network, and engage in discussions that will help define the future of our industry.

Speaker Streams:

  • Sport & Physical Activity
  • Facilities
  • Open Space
  • Innovation

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION BEFORE SUBMITTING YOUR ABSTRACT.

ABSTRACT

A short abstract (between 150-200 words) is to be provided when submitting (please use full sentences). You are also required to provide a minimum of three learning objectives (please use dot points).

Should your submission be accepted, presentations will run for 25 minutes plus 5 minutes Q&A, panel sessions and workshops will run for 40 minutes plus 5 minutes Q&A. Abstracts including the learning objectives will be published as submitted. Please proofread your abstract prior to submission.

BIOGRAPHY

A brief biography of approximately 50-100 words is to be provided when submitting your abstract. Biographies should be written in the third person. Should your proposal be accepted, your biography will be published online and will be used when introducing you as a presenter at the conference. To edit your biography at any stage please contact: events@parksleisure.com.au

JUDGING CRITERIA
  • Alignment with the conference theme
  • Relevance to the nominated stream
  • Demonstration of innovative idea/s and emerging trends
  • Clear learning outcomes provided
  • The author has ensured their presentation (workshop/oral presentation/panel presentation) is engaging for the audience. They have incorporated discussion time and/or a chance for participants to share their experiences.
  • All requested information has been supplied

Please note: All accepted abstract presenters are required to pay to attend and present. An abstract does not constitute an offer to pay travel, accommodation, or registration costs.

REGISTRATION

All presenters must register online. Presenters are entitled to the early bird registration rate of $1595 (ex GST).

Registration includes:

  • Entry to all sessions (Monday – Tuesday)
  • A ticket to the Welcome Reception
  • A ticket to Happy Hour drinks
  • A ticket to the Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner
  • Access to the trade exhibition

Presenters who wish to register for their nominated day only may do so at the $990 (ex GST) day registration cost.

Registration includes:

  • Entry to the sessions on nominated day (Monday – Tuesday)
  • A ticket to Happy Hour drinks (Monday only)
  • Access to the trade exhibition
CANCELLATIONS AND SUBSTITUTIONS

Please avoid late cancellations or substitutions as marketing material with your name and organisation may be pre-printed and cannot be removed later. If you do need to cancel or substitute speakers, please inform the Conference Manager at events@parksleisure.com.au as early as possible. Please refer to the Conference Cancellation Policy in relation to refunds and the cancellation process.

CALL FOR ABSTRACTS

All proposals must be submitted online using the form below. If you experience any difficulties or require assistance, please contact our National Conference Manager, Cathy D’Aloia, at events@parksleisure.com.au.

2025 NATIONAL CONFERENCE CALL FOR ABSTRACTS

PROFILE INFORMATION
Name(Required)
Email(Required)
Accepted file types: jpg, png, jpeg, pdf, tiff, Max. file size: 256 MB.
ABSTRACT SUBMISSION

Abstract: Please provide a 150–200 word description outlining what you will present on.

• Alignment with the Conference Theme: Ensure your abstract connects clearly to the conference theme "Inspired by the Past, Visions for the Future."

• Relevance to the Nominated Stream: Describe how your presentation relates to your chosen stream.

• Demonstration of Innovative Ideas and Emerging Trends: Highlight any new ideas, approaches, or trends your presentation will address.

• Learning Outcomes: Please provide three clear learning outcomes your audience will gain from your session.

Please select the speaker stream relevant to your presentation.
Learning Outcomes

Briefly describe three specific takeaways attendees will gain from your session.

Takeaway #1(Required)

e.g. Participants will learn how to...

Takeaway #2(Required)

e.g. Participants will learn how to...

Takeaway #3(Required)

e.g. Participants will learn how to...

Acknowledgement of Submission Details(Required)
Presenter Payment Acknowledgement(Required)
For more information on presenter registration and applicable discounts, please refer to the details above.
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

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