PROGRAM

Volunteering is shifting in ways that challenge long-held assumptions about commitment, connection and how people choose to contribute. This keynote explores how organisations can build the mindset and capability to navigate change rather than predict it, drawing on Dr Elissa Farrow’s work in futures and foresight, strategy and change (alongside her own volunteering experience). Delegates will consider emerging shifts, rethink familiar narratives, and explore adaptable, human-centred approaches that create sustainable, meaningful volunteer experiences. The session offers practical provocations to help organisations experiment, evolve and stay future-ready.

Volunteering only thrives when the people leading it do. As the sector changes, so must the way we lead it. In this keynote, wellbeing specialist and organisational solutionist Dr Liz Crowe explores what threatens our wellbeing, what sustains it, and how the way we lead shapes the culture around us. From maintaining healthy boundaries to leading with purpose and intention, Liz will share practical strategies to help leaders create environments where people can thrive and organisations can move confidently towards the future they want to create.

Through honest conversation and personal stories, this panel will give volunteer leaders meaningful insights into what actually motivates people to volunteer. You’ll explore the sense of belonging that keeps them there, the challenges and rewards that shape their experience, and the practices that turn short-term involvement into long-term commitment. Featuring our Youth Volunteer of the Year winners – Toby (2024), recognised for his volunteer leadership across the YMCA, Scouts Queensland and Queensland Youth Parliament; Rheanca (2025), co-founder of the disability-led youth initiative We Are Not Alone; and Jaylyn (2026), a DonateLife Queensland ambassador and heart transplant recipient turned advocate – this panel brings the perspective of young leaders already running volunteer teams with real impact. You'll leave with practical insight into building the kind of community-focused programs people want to belong to.

Inclusive volunteering doesn't happen by accident. It starts with listening to people's experiences, understanding the barriers that may be hidden within our systems and processes, and designing participation with people - not just for them. Hear from Gail Ker (Thriving Local), Cassy Dove (Guide Dogs Queensland) and Antonella Russo (Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast) as they share practical case studies and different perspectives on creating more inclusive volunteering experiences. The panel will explore how lived experience, co-design and intentional program design can uncover barriers, challenge assumptions and create more responsive ways for people to participate and belong. You'll leave with practical ideas, new design questions and approaches you can apply to build more inclusive, responsive and sustainable volunteer participation.

Every volunteer starts somewhere, a single spark that, with the right foundations, grows into meaningful, long-term commitment. Bringing together innovative volunteer-involving organisations including Surf Life Saving Queensland, Sunshine Coast Council and No More Butts, this panel will share how they're strengthening that first stage of the volunteer journey – from attracting people in, to building clear pathways into participation, to strong roles and onboarding, to reducing the barriers that stop people getting involved. Speakers will share what's worked, what hasn't, and how the National Standards for Volunteer Involvement are applied in practice. You'll leave with practical ideas for building recruitment and onboarding pathways that actually bring people in and keep them there.

Whether you're talking to staff, funders, volunteers or the community, the right message to the right audience doesn't just inform people. It moves them to act. This session gets hands-on with the practical side of communication: crafting messages that motivate, choosing the right channel at the right time, and using social media to build real visibility and connection. Join award-winning communications expert Amanda Newberry for a high-energy, practical session you can apply straight away, so your communication does more than inform. It inspires people to get involved and stay involved.

The right digital tools don't just save time. They open up new ways to engage the people you rely on. Join Kyle Behrend for a practical look at where AI and digital tools can genuinely add value. Discover how technology can simplify the everyday, open up new possibilities for volunteer engagement, and support better experiences without adding more complexity. You'll leave with practical ideas you can adapt, a clearer sense of where AI can help, and guidance for using it responsibly, accessibly and in line with your organisation's values.

Jane Hedger, CEO VQ

Round out day one at our Networking Reception, held on International Volunteer Managers Day. It's the perfect opportunity to celebrate your leadership and impact, while building connections across the sector.