The 5th National Justice Forum brings together leaders from across justice, government, community, legal and frontline services to confront a critical reality, the current system is not delivering better outcomes.
Despite increased investment and reform efforts, recidivism remains high and First Nations people continue to be overrepresented, and services operate in fragmented siloes that fail to meet complex needs.
This year’s Forum moves beyond discussion to focus on what actually works, examining the structural drivers of system failure, showcasing proven models across prevention, intervention and reintegration, and identifying the practical changes required to deliver coordinated, effective and sustainable justice outcomes.
Through evidence-based insights, cross sector perspectives and real-world case studies, attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how to reduce system demand, improve outcomes for individuals, and drive meaningful reform across the justice system.

Understand the systemic and structural challenges that prevent real, positive change and contribute to the cycle of incarceration

Learn how to reduce sector wide fragmentation across service and enable continuity of care by aligning systems and applying trauma-informed frameworks

Apply proven prevention and early intervention strategies to reduce the number of people who come into contact with the justice system

Address the overrepresentation of vulnerable and marginalised cohorts, including Aboriginal people, people with disability, and women

Strengthen through care and reintegration pathways to reduce recidivism

Navigate policy, funding and operational challenges to deliver sustainable reform and end the cycle of disadvantage

Build practical strategies to improve collaboration, accountability and service delivery across the sector
Strengthen through care and reintegration pathways to reduce recidivism
Navigate policy, funding and operational challenges to deliver sustainable reform and end the cycle of disadvantage





Strengthen cross-sector collaboration and deepen Indigenous partnerships to drive effective justice reinvestment outcomes
Deliver trauma-informed, culturally safe practices that facilitate healing and reduce recidivism
Amplify lived experience perspectives and embed co-design principles throughout justice system response
Optimise prevention and early intervention frameworks to reduce justice system contact
Implement sustainable, community-led pre- and post-release programs that support long-term reintegration
Caroline Hood, a licensed clinical social worker, is the newly appointed CEO of Prisoners Aid Association NSW, a 125-year-old organisation serving people as they exit incarceration and reintegrate into community.
Hayley Foster, BBus (Ec) LLB (Hons) GDLP GDFDRP GAICD, is the Director of Family Violence and Director of Access, Equity, and Inclusion at the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia
I am a passionate advocate for systemic change in the criminal justice space, especially its treatment of people with trauma, substance misuse, homelessness and First Nations peoples, with a focus on the over incarceration of these cohorts.
Vanessa Hollis is a Director at Queensland Corrective Services, leading a reform program created to deliver the recommendations of Queensland’s historic Women’s Safety and Justice Taskforce.
Insightful, thought-provoking, emotionally charged and really invaluable presentations by passionate speakers. I’m really appreciative of being able to share in the event
It is important that the various players in the justice system and community have a platform to yarn about the important issues facing First Nations communities; this forum allowed for that
Thank you for the opportunity to meet an amazing group of people. Their stories were inspiring and the passion and commitment expressed by those who attended testament to the strength and resilience of Aboriginal people in making things better for our mobs
We are honoured to be supported by dedicated sponsors and partners who share our vision of breaking the cycle of incarceration through systemic reforms, cross-sector collaboration, and lifelong support. Their commitment strengthens our mission and helps make this forum a catalyst for meaningful change.