Designing for a more inclusive future

Could you imagine a future where products are accessible to everyone, no matter your background? This event invited attendees on a transformative journey toward meaningful change in accessible design.

This unique one-day event brought together accessibility specialists, designers, technologists, and advocates to explore the future of inclusive design and technology.

Key topics included:

  • The role of emerging technologies in accessibility.
  • Designing for the intersection of diverse identities.
  • Creating sensory-rich experiences that serve everyone.

What we explored

Presenters

Michelle Chu

Michelle Chu

Senior Inclusive Design Specialist, ABC

Siva Kalyan

Siva Kalyan

CTO, Sunflower AI

Nikhil Bora

Nikhil Bora

Experience Designer, ANZ

Kobi Jae Masterson

Kobi Jae Masterson

Senior Accessibility Specialist, Belong

Kelly Schulz

Kelly Schulz

Managing Director, Knowable Me

Jo Szczepanska

Jo Szczepanska

Innovation and Service Development, Health Consumers Centre

Dr. Ronny Andrade Parra

Dr. Ronny Andrade Parra

Digital Accessibility Lead and Lecturer, RMIT

Julie Grundy

Julie Grundy

Head of Accessibility Assessment, Intopia

Patrick Jensen

Patrick Jensen

Head of Marketing and Brand Manager, See Me Please

Andrea Boundy

Andrea Boundy

Visual Design Chapter Lead Principal, Telstra

Liz Tesone

Liz Tesone

CEO, Disability Sport and Recreation

Event format

There was a lot to love about this format. It maximised impact through a mix of dynamic presentations and deep, focused conversations that provoked new ideas and left lasting impressions.

Two presenters stand on stage at The Outlook in front of bold backdrop panels, preparing to speak with microphones in hand.

Inspiring presentations

Attendees dove into transformative presentations that challenged the status quo and ignited powerful discussions. These sessions weren't just about exploring ideas. They catalysed actionable solutions.

Attendees mingle over coffee during a break at The Outlook, gathered in the foyer outside Victoria Suites in a relaxed, social atmosphere.

Engaged networking

We built meaningful connections over sustainable meals, drinks, and immersive experiences. The networking sessions fostered collaboration and left people feeling inspired.

Two attendees enjoy coffee and conversation during a break at The Outlook, smiling and relaxed in the venue’s open-air atrium.

Facilitated roundtables

Attendees engaged in deep, focused discussions with peers. They explored diverse perspectives and generated actionable ideas. These sessions offered a unique opportunity to co-create solutions and challenge the status quo.

Male speaker framed by audience silhouettes (file-Kpwb53kzw1UsPpWBg2HLVj) Male speaker stands mid-presentation on stage at The Outlook, framed by silhouettes of attendees and panels with striking visual motifs.

Social wrap-up

The day ended with drinks, canapés, and conversations that extended the day's discussions in a relaxed setting. It created space for continued inspiration and lasting connections.

Location and accessibility

The event was held on the 3rd floor of Sofitel Hotel at 35 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. It was a 7 minute walk from Flinders Street Station.

On arrival at the ground floor, reception staff directed guests to the event space. The floor was accessible by both escalator and elevator.

For interstate and international guests, the hotel provided wheelchair accessible rooms, and staff were available to assist with specific needs.

Event partners

Principal Partners
Major Partners
Partners
Supporters