2026 National Family Law Conference
The 21st National Family Law Conference, themed "Landscapes of Thought," is scheduled to take place from October 20 to 23, 2026, at the Hobart Convention & Exhibition Centre in Hobart, Tasmania. Organized by the Family Law Section of the Law Council of Australia, this biennial event aims to foster bold conversations, fresh perspectives, and groundbreaking ideas within the field of family law.
The conference will cover a broad range of topics related to family law, featuring insights from local, national, and international lawyers, allied professionals, academics, and members of the judiciary. Attendees can expect a comprehensive program that includes full days of presentations, workshops, and panel discussions designed to address current challenges and developments in family law.
In addition to the educational sessions, the conference offers a robust social program to facilitate networking and professional connections. Events include a Welcome Reception, daily Happy Hours, the Chair's Lunch, and a Gala Dinner featuring entertainment. Special functions such as the Out of Towners' Function and the LGBTQIA+ Function provide further opportunities for engagement and community building.
This conference is ideal for family law practitioners, early career lawyers, legal academics, and allied professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge, engage with peers, and stay abreast of the latest developments in family law. The event's diverse program and networking opportunities make it a valuable experience for anyone involved in the family law sector.
Speakers(13)
Amber Scott
Partner at Simmons Wolfhagen Lawyers
Amber Scott is a partner at Simmons Wolfhagen Lawyers and a member of the Conference Organising Committee.
Amelia Higgs
Partner at Dobson Mitchell Allport
Amelia Higgs is a partner at Dobson Mitchell Allport and a member of the Conference Organising Committee.
Dr. Michelle Fernando
Associate Professor in Law at University of South Australia
Dr. Michelle Fernando is an Associate Professor in Law at the University of South Australia and a member of the Papers Committee.
Jamie Burreket
Deputy Chair at Family Law Section
Jamie Burreket is the Deputy Chair of the Family Law Section and a member of the Papers Committee.
Judge Turnbull
Judge at Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Division 2)
Judge Turnbull serves on the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Division 2) and is a member of the Papers Committee.
Julia Higgins
Partner at Bishops Barristers & Solicitors
Julia Higgins is a partner at Bishops Barristers & Solicitors and a member of the Conference Organising Committee.
Justice McGuire
Justice at Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Division 1)
Justice McGuire serves on the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Division 1) and is a member of the Papers Committee.
Kate Mooney SC
Senior Counsel
Kate Mooney SC is a Senior Counsel and a member of the Papers Committee.
Matthew Verney SC
Senior Counsel
Matthew Verney SC is a Senior Counsel and a member of the Papers Committee.
Sarah Dowd
Partner at PWB Lawyers
Sarah Dowd is a partner at PWB Lawyers and a member of the Conference Organising Committee.
Theresa Eaton
Partner at Philip Welch Lawyers
Theresa Eaton is a partner at Philip Welch Lawyers and a member of the Papers Committee.
Trevor McKenna
Barrister at Derwent & Tamar Chambers
Trevor McKenna is a barrister at Derwent & Tamar Chambers and serves as the Conference Chair for the 21st National Family Law Conference.
Zoey Dwyer
Partner at Butler McIntyre & Butler
Zoey Dwyer is a partner at Butler McIntyre & Butler and a member of the Conference Organising Committee.
Event Details
- Date
- June 25-27, 2026
- 3 days
- Location
- 🇦🇺 Las Vegas, Australia
- Hobart Convention & Exhibition Centre
- Pricing
- $1,995 - $3,300
- Audience
- Family law practitioners, early career lawyers, legal academics, allied professionals