The Aboriginal Alcohol and Other Drug Workers Forum: Community First has been intentionally designed by the Reference Group to ensure local voices, experiences and ways of working inform Forum presentations and discussions. The Forum is built around three themes: Listening, Yarning and Working our Ways.

The forum has three key objectives: (1) highlight community-led solutions, (2) strengthen the Aboriginal AOD workforce, and (3) support discussion about culturally grounded approaches that can inform future sector development.

Day 1: Listening
The first day focuses on listening and learning from communities. Through a regional showcase, participants will have the opportunity to hear directly from regional workers, creating space for community-informed voices to be heard and recognised.

Day 2: Yarning and Working our Ways
The second day moves from listening to collective discussion and action. Through panel discussions, yarning circles, and workshops, participants will come together to share knowledge, explore opportunities and strengthen collaborative, community-informed approaches.