Propose a Session.

Call for presenters.

Submit a proposal to run a session with the aim of exploring the current issues facing the LGBTIQA+ movement in Australia.

DEADLINE: 30 January 2024

We’re seeking proposals from impactful individuals and organisations to host a panel discussion, run a workshop or present a topic at Better Together® 2024, our 6th national LGBTIQA+ conference on 14 & 15 June at GMHBA Stadium in Geelong, Victoria.

Introducing Better Think.

Elevating minds, 20 minutes at a time.

What is Better Think?

Better Think is a showcase of speakers presenting impactful and well-formed ideas that will help us “think better”.

Inspired by the wonderfully short and powerful format of TED Talks, the aim of Better Think is to share great ideas in under 20 minutes!

Do you have a new and surprising idea that we have not heard about? Or a great basic idea with a compelling new argument behind it that challenges beliefs and perspectives? We’d love you to be part of Better Think.

We invite you to propose ideas that explore:

  • A topic concerning Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual (Bi+), Trans and Gender Diverse, Intersex and Asexual communities in Australia;

  • An initiative that is creating better outcomes for LGBTIQA+ communities in Australia;

  • A subject of discussion that elevate the voices of diverse LGBTIQA+ communities including, but not limited to:

    • Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities

    • Culturally and racially marginalised communities

    • Multi-faith communities

    • Forcibly displaced people (people seeking asylum and refugees)

    • People with a lived experience of disability

    • People living in remote rural and regional Australia

    • The Deaf community

Who do we want to hear from?

Teachers. Change-makers. Writers. Creators. Artists. Allies. Trailblazers. Big Thinkers. Innovators. Visionaries. STORYTELLERS. LEADERs. ADVOCATES. DOERS. CHAMPIONS. PIONEERS. MENTORS. EDUCATORS. THOUGHT LEADERS. SPECIALISTS. LEARNERS. THINKERS. Experts. Crafters.

Her. Him. Them. You.

FAQs

  • What is the due date for proposals?

The application form opens on 21 November 2023 and closes on 30 January 2024 at 11.59pm.

  • Can I change my content and session title after being accepted?

If your application is successful, you will have approximately a fortnight to complete the presenter information form, including making minor changes to your session title and description. Completing this form secures your place in the program. A link to this form with a due date will be sent when you are offered a place in the program.

Note that your session may not be included in the conference program if you do not accept your offer by the due date.

  • I'm unable confirm my panel members before the deadline. Can I provide these details at a later date?

All co-presenters’ and panel members’ names and email addresses must be included in your initial application to be eligible for a spot in the Better Together program. Proposals will remain open for 10 weeks, to ensure sufficient time to put together a panel of speakers.

Insufficient information in your application will affect your eligibility to be offered a spot in the conference.

  • What are the sessions types I can submit an idea for?

You can choose one of three session types:

  • Panel Q&A - This session includes 2-4 panelists and a moderator (yourself). The aim of this format is to explore a specific topic with 2-4 people who share differing perspectives. The moderator poses questions to the panel to discuss the topic, share stories or information and provide insight. The audience may be invited to ask questions. Up to 50 minutes.

  • Workshop - This format involves interaction from participants that may include activites like writing, artmaking, storytelling, brainstorming as well as physical or verbal group exercises or games. A workshop must be substantially interactive to be considered. Standard duration 45 minutes, but duration may vary.

  • Better Think - This session (talk) is for a 15-18 minute TED Talk-style presentation. This format is best suited for a lecture-driven presentation with the aim of delivering information, stories of lived experience and great new ideas in a short impactful way. Up to 20 minutes.

  • What is Better Think?

Better Think is a new presentation format for Better Together®. The aim of this session is to encourage speakers to prepare short impactful presentations and deliver a great idea that can inform, inspire, surprise and delight in under 20 minutes!

When preparing your Better Think talk, consider the following:

  • Choose one great idea…

  • Think about your audience. What do you want them to take away from your talk?

  • What is your key message?

  • Teach us something new.

  • I want to do a Better Think talk but my presentation runs for more than 20 minutes. Can I have more time?

We will strictly enforce the time limit of 20 minutes for all Better Think speakers. This is the place to condense your ideas into a compelling 18-minute talk that communicates your message. A carefully prepared presentation of this length can have a powerful impact.

Remember, you don’t have to convey every detail of your project, idea or experience - if you provide your contact details, audience members will be able to follow up with you for more information or further discussion if your talk has resonated with them.

  • Isn't this a conference? How come you're not accepting abstracts?

The term “abstract” is normally used for an application to present at an academic-type of conference where a brief summary of a research paper or report is required as part of the submission.

Better Together® is not an academic conference and we want this event to be accessible to the wider community who can submit an idea and take part in the conference. We prefer to use the phrase “propose a session” instead of “submit an abstract” to run a workshop, host a panel or deliver a talk at Better Together®.

  • How do I submit a session proposal?

We invite you to use our online form to submit your idea. Submissions close 11.59pm 30 January 2024.

  • Can I have a co-presenter for my session?

Yes, but please be aware that all co-presenters’ names and contact details must be included in your session proposal. We are unable to add co-presenters to your sessions after it has been accepted and added to the program.

  • Is there a cost to present at Better Together?

Yes. If your proposal is accepted, as part of accepting your spot in the conference program you must purchase a ticket to Better Together. You will receive a code to access a reduced-cost presenter ticket of $129. If you need assistance with the fee, please let us know.

  • Can I apply for a conference scholarship and also propose a session?

Yes you can. Conference scholarships will open in February, with some reduced-cost tickets available before that time. To accept your spot in the conference program, you must hold a ticket to the conference. This can be any type of ticket.

  • My question wasn't answered. Who do I contact for more information?

If you have a question about your proposal please get in touch at mail@equality.org.au.