Every two years, practitioners, researchers, policy makers, and advocates from around the globe come together in Melbourne for the International Childhood Trauma Conference — a unique opportunity to learn, connect and be inspired by the world’s leading experts in trauma and attachment.

In 2025, the conference returns to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 17 – 22 August for its fifth iteration.

Hosted by Australian Childhood Foundation, the 2025 conference explores the theme Transforming trauma: connection and healing — a powerful reminder that healing is not a solitary process, but a collective journey built through connection, collaboration and community.

Over six days, delegates will embark on a journey of growth and learning through:

• Keynote presentations from world-renowned experts
• Interactive workshops and advanced masterclasses
• Lived experience storytelling and First Nations wisdom
• Symposium-style discussions featuring contemporary research and practice
• New networking opportunities and spaces to share your own work

This year’s speaker line-up includes some of the most respected voices in trauma theory and practice, such as:

• Dan Siegel
• Ruth Lanius
• Deb Dana
• Jon Baylin
• Rachel Yehuda
• Paul Gilbert
• Dan Hughes, and many more

With a focus on relational safety, neurodivergence and trauma, harmful sexual behaviour, and the impact of connection to self, others, place, community and Country, the 2025 program offers meaningful opportunities to deepen your understanding and build on your practice.

Whether you work in mental health, education, child protection, justice, or community services, the conference offers something for every professional committed to the wellbeing of children.

Join over 12,000 past delegates who have attended previous conferences, and be part of a community driving transformational change in childhood trauma practice.

Learn more

Explore the full program and speaker list at childtraumaconference.org.

Tickets on sale now.