National CALD Disability Inclusion Summit: Our Voices, Our Future 2026

Join us on Wednesday 4 November for a national event bringing together people with lived experience, advocates, practitioners, policymakers and sector leaders to explore the future of multicultural disability inclusion. We're also delighted to announce that Em Rusciano will be our MC for the day. A celebrated performer, author and passionate disability advocate, Em brings authenticity, warmth and lived experience to conversations about inclusion, identity and belonging—setting the stage for a day of meaningful discussion and connection. We are thrilled to have her on board for this important day. Event details: 📅 Wednesday 4 November 2026 🕗 8:15am - 9:00am (Registration) ⏰ 9:00am – 4:30pm (Summit) 🥂 4:30pm – 6:30pm (Networking event) 📍 Park Royal Parramatta - 30 Phillip St, Parramatta NSW 2150 📩 Register: by 10 October We are also excited to bring you an impactful panel discussion about disability policy and practice, exploring the strategies we can implement to remove barriers, improve outcomes, and support more inclusive and equitable systems and supports. This insightful conversation features top industry experts and leaders, including: Michael Perusco (CEO, National Disability Services) has led several disability and community service organisations over his two-decade career, including the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, Sacred Heart Mission in Victoria, and Berry Street, one of Australia’s largest independent child and family service providers. Professor Frank Oberklaid (Co-Chair, National Thriving Kids Advisory Group) is an internationally recognised researcher, author, lecturer and consultant, and was the Foundation Director of the Centre for Community Child Health at The Royal Children's Hospital – Melbourne for over 25 years. He currently serves as Co-Group Leader, Policy and Equity, at the Murdoch Children's Research Institute. Sylvana Mahmic (CEO, Plumtree Children’s Services) has three decades of experience in the early childhood field, having served on over 25 advisory groups including six Ministerial appointments. She has been a member of the NSW Disability Council and was a founding board member of Diversity Disability Alliance. This summit is an opportunity to be part of important national conversations, exchange ideas with peers and help shape a more inclusive future for culturally and linguistically diverse people with disability. We are committed to making this event accessible, inclusive and welcoming for everyone. A range of accessibility measures will be available at the event, including: • Live captions • A sensory/quiet room where attendees can take a break from the event environment. • Accessible venue facilities and pathways • Accessible seating options We recognise that accessibility needs are different for everyone. When registering, please let us know about any accessibility requirements you may have so we can work with you to make your experience as comfortable and accessible as possible. If you have any questions about accessibility or would like to discuss a specific requirement before the event, please contact the event team. Register today, and if you have any questions, please contact our Events Team.