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Grounded in Culture, Guided by Mob
headspace is proud to partner with VACCHO (Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation), and Aventedge to deliver the inaugural Indigenous Youth Mental Health & Wellbeing Forum.
This gathering is dedicated to centring cultural strength, self-determination, and community leadership in the mental health and social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.
What to expect
Over three days, the forum will bring together Indigenous leaders, youth advocates, community members, clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and mental health professionals to:
- Share practical strategies to create culturally safe and affirming services for young people
- Learn from community-led programs and case studies from across Australia
- Discuss pioneering research and new approaches to social and emotional wellbeing
- Strengthen networks and build capacity for early intervention and prevention
- Explore the intersections of justice, culture, and youth mental health
Day three will feature an on-Country cultural workshop, offering participants an immersive experience to deepen understanding and connection.
Key speakers
- Daniel Knapp: Executive Director, First Nations Wellbeing and Engagement, headspace
- Jacara Egan: Head of Operations, Cultural Practice and Engagement, headspace
- Jason May: Founder & CEO, Bawamarra Cultural Services
- Dr Michael Doyle: Associate Professor, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney
…and many other community and sector leaders. Learn more here.
Why this forum matters
While demand for youth mental health services continues to grow, culturally safe and community-led supports for First Nations young people remain limited and under-resourced. This forum responds to that gap by creating a dedicated space for Indigenous voices and leadership to shape the future of youth mental health care in Australia.
Together, we will explore innovative, grassroots solutions, bridge gaps between policy and practice, and celebrate the vital role of culture and connection in healing.
Who should attend
This forum is designed for anyone working to improve mental health and social and emotional wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, including:
- Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations
- Community members
- Indigenous youth leaders
- Not-for-profits and local councils
- PHNs and government health departments
- Universities, researchers, and educators
- Emergency and correctional services
Supporting community attendance
To ensure the forum is accessible, community bursaries are available to support participation for First Nations people, particularly those from remote and regional areas.
Venue
The Events Centre at Collins Square
727 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC 3008
Register now
Join us in shaping a future where all young people can thrive, grounded in culture and guided by mob.