IMPACT 2024 Conference Agenda

This year, our IMPACT 2024 Annual Conference will be bigger and greater than ever. We have an amazing line-up of international speakers and panelists, who will be covering a range of topics.

*Please note, the times and sessions are subject to change.

Time Session Summary Your speakers
7.45am Registration opens The registration will take place in the Foyer of level two in front of Melbourne 2 room.

The IMPACT 2024 Expo Hall will be in Melbourne 1 room, further down the passage.

 
8:50am Conference Welcome Welcome/Acknowledgement of Country Tracey Spicer AM
Award winning author and journalist
9:10am Keynote Session In an Australian first, Professor Maria Cisternas will share learnings from her time in the UN, as well as insights into the co-authoring of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Professor María Soledad Cisternas Reyes
Former UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy on Disability and Accessibility
10:00am Keynote Session Randy is the international best-selling author of No Greatness, Without Goodness, a story of a corporate executive who, after watching the world through the eyes of Austin, his own child with autism, created thousands of full-time jobs for people with disabilities. Randy shares his story, followed by a Q&A with Tracey Spicer.   Randy Lewis
Former Senior VP Supply Chain & Logistics, Walgreens
10.40-11.10am Morning Tea
11.10am CEO Insights: Leading the way to workplace inclusivity Get an exclusive peek into the boardrooms of Australia’s most respected companies, and their transformative access and inclusion journeys.

Representing different sectors, this powerhouse panel brings a rich tapestry of insights, experiences, and strategies to give you a holistic view of the inclusive practices shaping Australia’s biggest brands.

  • Peter Wilson
    Chair, Australian Disability Network
  • Caroline Casey
    Global Founder of Valuable 500
  • Paul Graham
    Group CEO & MD, Australia Post
  • Vanessa Hudson
    CEO & MD Qantas
  • David Koczkar  CEO & MD, Medibank
  • Paul Scurrah  CEO & MD, Pacific National
  • Leah Weckert  CEO & MD Coles
12.10 – 1.10pm Lunch
1.10pm Takeaway 10 10 quick tips to improve access and inclusion in your workplace. Australian Disability Network
1.20pm Deep Dive: Recruiting and retaining people with disability We explore the dynamic intersection of technology and inclusion to drive meaningful and sustainable workplace diversity for people with disabilities. You’ll gain actionable strategies for creating career development pathways and enhancing retention initiatives, while learning more about the role of AI in shaping future hiring practices.
  • Tracey Spicer AM
    Award winning author and journalist
  • Emma Henningsen 
    Head of Consultancy, Australian Disability Network
  • Natalie Sheard
    AI + Discrimination Researcher, Lawyer, Consultant
  • Katie Wyatt
    Head of Culture & Inclusion, People & Culture, Coles
2pm Deep Dive: Implementing workplace adjustments A multidimensional exploration of workplace adjustments that blends research, expertise, and personal narrative to create a session that goes beyond theory. An engaging and informative journey that will reshape your understanding of workplace adjustments.
  • Dr Catherine Maitland
    Research Lead, Australian Disability Network
  • Amber O’Shea 
    Head of Strategy, Australian Disability Network
  • Tara Waller Head of Culture and Inclusion, RMIT University
  • Primal Fernando
    Senior IT Officer, Victorian Disability Worker Commission
2.40 – 3.10pm Afternoon Tea
3.10pm Deep Dive:
Setting and achieving
disability employment targets
An immersive session that discusses the key elements of setting and achieving disability employment targets through a compelling blend of practical guidance, success stories, and international perspectives.
  • Graeme Innes AM
    Lawyer, Author, and Company Director
  • Corene Strauss  CEO, Australian Disability Network
  • Randy Lewis  Former Senior VP Supply Chain & Logistics, Walgreens
  • Natasha Legge-Wilkinson Lead Principal Process Safety Engineer, AGL
  • Katrina Carlton Principal Advisor, Diversity and Inclusion, Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions (DJSIR)
3.50pm Keynote session A candid and insightful conversation that flips the script on traditional discussions on accessibility in tech. Jenny will share real, unfiltered insights into the world of accessibility in tech, give you the scoop on what’s making waves in the ever-evolving landscape of accessibility, and offer practical advice on what your organisation needs to do to stay ahead in creating truly accessible tech environments. Jenny Lay-Flurrie
Chief Accessibility Officer, Microsoft
 
4.25pm Keynote session Get ready to hear from the effervescent Caroline as she shares insights into the importance of leadership and CEO commitment.

Join us as we end and incredible day with an inspiring session on accountability and unity.

Caroline Casey
Founder, Valuable 500
4.55pm Conference Close A recap, wrap-up, and celebration of IMPACT 2024!
  • Tracey Spicer AM
    Award winning author and journalist
  • Corene Strauss
    CEO, Australian Disability Network
5 – 7pm Networking Cocktail Party