Working Communities International Congress
Uniting to Improve Social and Economic Participation

24 - 26 March 2010 Melbourne, Victoria, AUSTRALIA

On behalf of NESA, in partnership with the OECD LEED Programme, I would like to extend our warmest invitation to attend the second biennial Working Communities International Congress. 

Improving the lives of individuals, families and communities through improved social and economic participation is an objective being pursued internationally. In 2008, we developed this event as a forum for thought leaders - to share their experiences and strategies to challenge thinking and inspire innovative solutions - towards the goal of creating healthy, vibrant and sustainable working communities. In March, we will meet again to continue this pivotal process.

NESA is a partner of the OECD Local Economic and Employment Development (LEED) Programme. LEED's mission is to contribute to the creation of more and better jobs through more effective policy implementation, innovative practices, stronger capacities and integrated strategies at the local level. It has provided a vital contribution to policy development for nearly three decades. Delegates to the 2010 Working Communities International Congress will benefit from the broad range of international perspectives that NESA and LEED can provide.

The Organising Team has developed a strong program which will be attractive to delegates from a broad cross section of the Australasian and international communities.

We have secured prominent speakers, panellists and workshop facilitators to explore the congress’ themes; including leading keynote speakers.

The social events, including a welcome reception and congress dinner, will provide delegates with opportunities to network with people from other organisations, sectors and countries, who share in the challenge and aspiration to improve social inclusion and economic participation.

As part of this conference, delegates will also experience Australia’s cultural capital, Melbourne. Renowned for its theatres, art, fine dining and culture, Melbourne is home to a plethora of world-class attractions. The congress venue, the Grand Hyatt Melbourne Hotel is located in the heart of the city’s central business, shopping and theatre district.

I encourage you to browse through the program, speaker and registration information on this website. We have provided further information on Melbourne and NESA for your convenience.

I would also like to invite responses to the Call for Case Studies, Innovative Models & Research Papers. Share your stories of success with other thought leaders through presentation of a case study, Best Practice innovation, cutting-edge model of service delivery, or completed research. These presentations will form an integral part of the congress program.

Finally, I would like to thank our sponsors, who will contribute greatly to the success of the congress and all it is set to achieve. If you would like information on becoming a sponsor, or for any more enquiries, please contact us.

I look forward to the possibility of you joining us in March, as we unite to improve social and economic participation.

Sally Sinclair CEO, NESA