Looking forward to FOCUS26

As chair of FOCUS26, I am genuinely excited about what we have created for this year’s conference in October in Cairns (Gimuy). 

The passion, creativity and dedication of the team have shaped a program that I believe will inspire, challenge and connect physiotherapists from across Australia. 

There are many moments I am looking forward to but three stand out. 

First, it’s an opportunity for our community to come together. 

Over the years, APA conferences have consistently shown me that physiotherapists value more than just professional development – they value connection. 

Whether it’s colleagues reconnecting during the welcome reception by the pool, sharing conversations over coffee or joining a morning yoga session, these moments remind us that we are part of a vibrant and supportive profession. 

Second, for the first time at FOCUS, we are offering a hands-on pre-conference workshop on artificial intelligence. 

Artificial intelligence is a personal passion of mine and I can confidently say this is a session not to be missed. 

We have assembled an outstanding group of presenters who will provide practical insights into one of the most significant emerging areas influencing healthcare and education. 

Third, I am excited by the breadth and depth of expertise featured throughout the program. 

Delegates will hear from exceptional speakers across all streams, including Michelle Whap from Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service in the practice stream; Dr Jade Scott and Ben Corso in the business stream; and Professor Trent Twomey, president of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, alongside Professor Robin Orr, director of the Tactical Research Unit at Bond University, in the leadership and management stream. 

FOCUS26 offers four dedicated streams designed to meet the needs of physiotherapists at every career stage. 

Practice explores the breadth of physiotherapy’s impact on our communities, with sessions covering topics such as assessment, neurodiversity, nutrition, climate change and rural healthcare. 

Education focuses on innovative teaching approaches, clinical education, professional development, student-centred learning and the emerging trends shaping the future of physiotherapy education. 

Business provides practical guidance on practice growth, financial sustainability, marketing and adapting to an evolving healthcare environment. 

Leadership and management equips delegates with the skills to lead confidently through sessions on communication, change management, workforce development, team building and positive workplace cultures.

This year’s conference includes a strong social and wellbeing program designed to foster meaningful connections and make the most of our stunning location. 

Delegates can enjoy the much-loved welcome reception poolside at Pullman Cairns International, celebrate with colleagues at the conference dinner beneath the rainforest canopy and, for the first time, participate in morning yoga sessions or walk/run groups before the day’s program begins. 

Why attend FOCUS26? 

Having attended many APA conferences throughout my career, there are three things I consistently take away from the experience. 

Attendees leave with practical knowledge, new perspectives and evidence-informed strategies that can be applied immediately in their practice, workplace or leadership role. 

Physiotherapy can sometimes feel isolating. 

Conferences remind us that we belong to a larger professional community that shares a commitment to improving the lives of others. 

Perhaps most importantly, conferences reconnect us with the reasons we entered this profession in the first place. 

The innovation, passion and commitment to excellence on display are both energising and motivating. 

Whether this is your first APA conference or your tenth, FOCUS26 promises an opportunity to learn, connect and be inspired. 

Together, we can celebrate our profession, share ideas, build new connections and continue advancing physiotherapy for the benefit of our communities.

Professor Leo Ng APAM
Chair, FOCUS26 Conference Committee