27th & 28th June 2024: Side by Side is excited to welcome parents to join them at this two day conference, where we will NOT be talking about NDIS!
We will be talking about the good stuff.
You will hear from people and families about what made a difference to them. We will be talking about how we support people to live good lives, and share stories of hope and practical tips.
This is a great opportunity to connect with others and celebrate twelve years of the Side by Side* community.
Get ready to hear from a dynamic lineup of speakers at the Side by Side Family Conference, each sharing their unique lived experiences on a variety of topics. From delving into Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) to exploring what effective behavior support entails, our presenters will cover it all. You’ll gain insights into the transition of a 25-year-old daughter moving out of home, strategies for explaining life and disability to family members using autistic role models, and discussions around sexuality through the lens of Microboards Australia’s sexuality project. Discover the power of advocacy, both for yourself and your loved ones, as speakers share their journeys of standing up for what they believe in. Gain valuable caregiver perspectives from mothers and siblings, and learn how to navigate the dual roles of advocate and parent. Plus, don’t miss the opportunity to hear regional voices and perspectives from a parent and behavioral support practitioner in regional WA.
- Jo Henrickson: Mum to two boys with neurodivergence, recently diagnosed with Autism and ADHD. Balancing motherhood with studies and work in disability support.
- Tammy Whait: With 21 years in the disability sector, Tammy runs her Support Coordination business and is dedicated to creating inclusive communities.
- Heidi Brandis: Heidi, a mum and advocate, found clarity through an ADHD diagnosis, now supporting families in the autism community.
- Tara Gordon: As a sole parent to her son with a PDA profile of autism, Tara brings a unique perspective to the challenges and joys of neurodiversity.
- Leonie Peterson: Leonie, a seasoned advocate and mum, shares her journey raising a daughter with ID and autism, emphasizing the importance of community support.
- Kristie Pansini: Kristie, a single foster mum, advocates for sign language and enjoys attending family camps, offering insights into fostering and autism.
- Bridget Scott: Bridget, an Occupational Therapist with over 30 years of experience, focuses on building connections and relationships for families in need.
- Tarna Bulman: Tarna, a passionate advocate for inclusion, draws from her 33 years of experience as a parent and kinship carer to inspire change.
- Lydia Briers: A neurodivergent mother and Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner, Lydia navigates parenting while pursuing a career in psychology.
- Jaquie Mills: Jaquie, managing director of Microboards Australia, champions social inclusion for vulnerable individuals, drawing from her personal experience as a parent.
- Eli Dickenson: Eli, a train enthusiast and advocate for AAC users, shares his journey with complex communication needs and community service.
- Maxine Drake: An advocate with DDWA, Maxine empowers others to negotiate for services and entitlements, bringing years of experience in health consumer advocacy.
Join us at the conference to learn from these inspiring individuals and connect with others in the neurodiverse community!
Various conference packages are available, some of which include dinner, or dinner along with accommodation. During the registration process, you’ll be prompted to indicate your preference, and we’ll tailor the invoice accordingly. Whether you intend to make a claim through NDIS or prefer to pay privately, invoices can be provided accordingly. Our registration form will walk you through this process.
Conference Packages
Package 1 – Conference ticket only: Cost $170 (per person)
(Includes entry to the conference, morning & afternoon tea and lunch. Tea and coffee throughout the day.)
Package 2 – Includes Conference ticket and Dinner on Thursday 27th June: Cost $225 (per person)
Package 3 – Includes Conference ticket, Dinner and One Night Accommodation) : Cost $420 (per person)
If you have an “Additional Attendee” and will share the room, then Attendee 1 must book Package 3 which includes accommodation. Attendee 2 only needs to select Package 2 for conference ticket and dinner. The room cost is the same whether it is single or double accupancy.
Important information: no need to contact Ingot Hotel. DDWA will do this on your behalf for your booking.
Please note: accommodation excludes any room service and mini bar. You will need to present a credit card at reception on arrival for check in purposes.
* DDWA began Side by Side as a project in 2012, for families experiencing behaviour which could be seen as challenging.
Side by Side connects families experiencing challenging behaviour with other families though a supported peer group. Peer groups provide a safe place to share experiences, receive support and help each other. In December 2019, DDWA was approved for an ILC (Information, Linkages and Capacity) grant to develop the Side by Side program.
The SBS Vision
Side by Side’s vision and aim is for families experiencing challenging behaviour to be better supported, and to develop family leaders to grow the reach of support offered. Side by Side works with families to support them to develop their own capacity and is also building the strength of the Side by Side peer group collectively.
For more information about Side by Side, Go to our Side by Side page