headspace Forum 2026 brings our shared purpose to life through “Growing Together”

From 16–18 June in Meanjin/Brisbane, the biennial headspace Forum 2026 brought together young people and professionals from across Australia for three energising days of connection, learning and inspiration. 

United by a shared commitment to youth mental health and wellbeing, attendees exchanged ideas, perspectives and lived experiences that will continue to shape the future of our work. 

This year’s theme, “Growing Together”, reflected how we continue to evolve - both as a headspace network and as individuals - supporting our communities through times of uncertainty and renewal.

Across the three days, collaboration and shared learning were at the heart of every conversation. The Forum highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships, valuing diverse perspectives, and recognising the unique strengths each person brings to ensure every young person feels safe, seen and supported.

Moments of meaningful connection were everywhere, from panel discussions and informal conversations to live music performances and therapy dog visits, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. 

Forum highlights: 

  • CEO Jason Trethowan opened the Forum, speaking to the challenges young people are facing and the importance of working together across the network.   

  • The Hon Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health and Aged Care, spoke about how far headspace has come and the growing trust young people place in the service. 

  • A panel discussion explored the pressures young men face today, with perspectives from Movember, hY NRG (headspace Youth National Reference Group), FNYAC (First Nations Youth Advisory Council) and a school-aged young person, evolving conversations around identity and help-seeking. 

  • Dr. Michelle Lim shared a keynote on loneliness and isolation, with practical steps to help us all build stronger connections and support systems. 

  • TJ Power, bestselling author of The Dose Effect and neuroscientist, uncovered how tech is rewiring our brains, showing how simple actions, like giving and receiving hugs (pets included!), can make an immediate and tangible difference to our mental health and wellbeing.  

  • The Hon Emma McBride MP shared her perspective on the future of youth mental health in Australia. 

  • The headspace Showcase Awards recognised centres making a meaningful difference across the country. 

  • And throughout it all, music played a big role. Performances from Austin Armstrong, Mieke Louise, Hugo and The Hive and Sienna Tenn brought a different kind of energy into the space. 

Feedback highlights the value of coming together as a network, with 86% of attendees rating the Forum as very good or excellent, and 70% indicating they intend to make changes to their practice. 

The headspace Forum is a powerful reminder that change happens when we listen, collaborate and act together. The conversations sparked in Meanjin/Brisbane will continue to ripple across communities, services and systems nationwide. 

We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who attended, contributed and helped bring the Forum to life. 

As we move forward, the momentum continues, along with our shared commitment to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young people across Australia.