PWdWA’s State Conference
Thursday 19 and Friday 20 June 2025
The Esplanade Fremantle – by Rydges
People With Disabilities Western Australia (PWdWA) is proud to present the PWdWA State Conference 2025, taking place in Fremantle, Western Australia, on Thursday 19 June and Friday 20 June 2025.
Being able to participate in and contribute to the community actively is a central part of living a good life. Participating at school or work, being represented in community groups, volunteering, and being included in social and cultural activities are all important aspects of life for people, including those with disabilities.
This event will bring together individuals with lived experience of disability, community members, advocates, service providers, and policymakers to discuss critical issues and foster an inclusive society where people with disabilities can participate fully and contribute meaningfully.
The conference will focus on key themes including:
- Self-Advocacy and Empowerment – Exploring the power of lived experience and self-advocacy in shaping policy and services.
- Inclusive Communities – Addressing barriers and opportunities for people with disabilities in employment, education, and community life.
- Health and Wellbeing – Examining disability-inclusive healthcare, mental health support, and assistive technology innovations.
- Policy and Reform – Discussing legislative changes, the impact of the NDIS, and pathways for greater disability rights.
Program Details
View as PDF
PWdWA State Conference 2025_Program – PDF
View as Word Document
PWdWA State Conference 2025 Program – Word Document
MC – Mike Keady
Michael Keady, known widely as Mike the Nerd Therapist, is a mental health counsellor, school wellbeing specialist, and passionate advocate for disability inclusion. As a person with disabilities himself, Mike brings lived experience to his work, creating safe, accessible, and engaging therapeutic spaces for neurodivergent individuals and people with disabilities.
Keynote Speaker – Dr John Byrne AM
Dr John Byrne is the Commissioner for Equal Opportunity in Western Australia and has been in the role since 2016. John has been totally deaf since he was a child. He holds PhD and MBA degrees.
Prior to becoming Commissioner, he was a Director with the Department of Parks and Wildlife where he was involved with increasing diversity in employment, engagement with Aboriginal people in management of their country and improving access to recreation facilities by people with disabilities.
He has been an advocate for people with disabilities for many years and is credited with achieving major improvements to captioning of television, cinema and live theatre in Australia. John was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2020.
Accommodation
Staying overnight at the Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges while attending a conference is an excellent choice for both convenience and comfort. Staying at the event venue, means no need to rush or stress about transport. Plus, the hotel offers a range of dining options, including a contemporary restaurant and a relaxed bar, perfect for winding down after a full day of presentations.
Make sure to take advantage of the special PWdWA discount when booking your stay! By using the provided discount link, you’ll receive an exclusive rate, making your overnight accommodation more affordable.
Book your discounted accommodation by clicking here
