Abstract Submissions for 2026 are now open!

We invite passionate speakers, industry experts, and community leaders to share their insights at the annual Pride in Practice Conference. This is your opportunity to showcase best practice initiatives, inspire change, and contribute to the ongoing conversation on LGBTQ+ workplace inclusion. Whether you bring practical strategies, innovative programs, or lived experience, your session can help shape a more inclusive future for workplaces across Australia.

Please read all the information below carefully before submitting your abstract.

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WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO PROVIDE

• Session Title (10 words max)
• Short Description of Session (100 words max)
• Key Objectives and Outcomes (350 words max)
• Script to introduce the session and speakers (150 words max)
• Name, Headshot, Job Title, Pronouns, Email and Bio (200 words max) for all speakers

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EXAMPLE ABSTRACTS

Please take a moment to look at our Example Abstract Guides before you start working on your submissions. For your convenience we have created two versions, so please use whichever you find useful:

• Example Abstract (Colour Guide)
• Example Abstract (Italics, Bold and Underline Guide)

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IMPORTANT SPEAKER INFORMATION

Please take a moment to read over the Important Speaker Information via the link below, this details important information on complimentary speaker tickets, due dates and requirements for presentations that may help inform your abstract.

• 2026 Important Speaker Information

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2026 KEY CONFERENCE THEMES

These themes are suggestions. Other LGBTQ+ inclusion topics that are relevant for Australian workplaces are also very welcome.

• ADVANCING DEI IN THE CURRENT CLIMATE – How is your organisation responding to global anti-DEI challenges? What strategies, language, risk management, structures, funding and partnerships are being implemented?
• ALLIES – The vital role allies play in building and maintaining LGBTQ+ inclusion momentum.
• AWARENESS – Identifying and raising awareness of diverse and underrepresented LGBTQ+ identities and experiences.
• INTERSECTIONALITY – Best practice examples aligning LGBTQ+ inclusion with other areas of diversity , e.g., First Nations, disability, CALD, faith, youth, seniors, neurodiversity, and QTIPOC.
• LEADERSHIP – The role of executive leadership in ensuring LGBTQ+ employees feel safe and supported.
• FIRST NATIONS LGBTQ+ VOICES – Guidance from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQ+ communities on inclusion, recruitment, retention, and career pathways.
• MARKETING & SPONSORSHIP – Aligning organisational values with genuine community engagement and partnerships.
• PSYCHOLOGICAL SAFETY – Addressing organisational and legal responsibility to LGBTQ+ employees.
• REGIONAL & INTERNATIONAL REACH – Promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion in regional, remote, and international contexts.
• TRANS & GENDER DIVERSE – Inclusive recruitment, gender affirmation policies, and accessible facilities.
• RESILIENCE – Supporting employees during challenging times and addressing negative commentary.
• VALUE – Demonstrating the importance of LGBTQ+ inclusion through case studies and innovation.
• VISIBILITY – Increasing representation of underrepresented identities in leadership roles.

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WHERE WILL I BE PRESENTING?

All speakers will be presenting in person at Marvel Stadium, Melbourne on either Monday 23rd November or Tuesday 24th November 2026.

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ARE YOU A MEMBER OF PRIDE IN DIVERISTY?

If your organisation is a member of Pride in Diversity, we strongly recommend that you reach out to your Relationship Manager for guidance and assistance with your abstract before submitting. Find out about membership here.

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Abstract submissions close on Friday, 14th August 2026 at 4pm AEST.
For any enquiries, please email prideinevents@acon.org.au