In the last week of May, more than 200 delegates from across Australia came together in Adelaide for the 2026 Meals on Wheels National Conference, united under the theme Stronger Together.
Across three inspiring days, attendees connected through a shared purpose: supporting older Australians and strengthening the communities they call home. The conference provided an opportunity to learn, challenge thinking, share experiences and celebrate the vital role Meals on Wheels plays in communities nationwide.
The conference opened with a powerful Welcome to Country by Senior Kaurna Man Uncle Mickey O’Brien, who reflected on the importance of connection, culture and community. Conference Chair Justina Gardiner welcomed delegates and encouraged attendees to embrace the opportunity to learn from one another and strengthen the relationships that underpin the Meals on Wheels network.
A diverse program of keynote speakers, panels and workshops explored some of the most pressing issues facing the sector, including aged care reform, food security, volunteering, community partnerships and the future of care.
Delegates heard thought-provoking insights from keynote speakers Mia Handshin, Moira Were AM, Dr Fiona Kerr and Amy Gildea, who challenged attendees to think differently about leadership, innovation, human connection and resilience. Throughout the conference, speakers reinforced the importance of remaining connected to purpose while adapting to a rapidly changing world.
Panel discussions brought together leaders from across government, aged care, community services and partner organisations to examine opportunities and challenges facing the sector. Conversations highlighted the importance of collaboration, advocacy and strong partnerships in delivering meaningful outcomes for older Australians and ensuring communities remain connected and supported.
A recurring theme throughout the conference was the value of belonging. Speakers explored how connection strengthens individuals and communities, with Amy Gildea reminding delegates that “community survives long before systems recover” and that care work remains fundamental to a thriving society.
The conference also celebrated the power of volunteering and partnerships, showcasing innovative approaches to addressing food insecurity, reducing food waste and building stronger, more resilient communities.
During the conference, Chair Paul Sadler officially launched the new CHSP Alliance website alongside two new position papers. The CHSP Alliance plays a critical role in advocating for the future of the Commonwealth Home Support Programme, ensuring its distinct identity is protected and that it does not merge into the proposed Support at Home model. The launch reinforced the importance of a strong, coordinated voice for CHSP providers in shaping aged care reform and safeguarding community-based support for older Australians.
Alongside the formal program, delegates enjoyed valuable networking opportunities, an engaging exhibition space and countless conversations that strengthened relationships across the national Meals on Wheels network.
The connections forged throughout the conference extended beyond the formal program, with delegates coming together on Thursday evening for the Conference Dinner at the National Wine Centre. Under the creative theme, Create Your Masterpiece, attendees embraced the opportunity to showcase their artistic flair through an array of imaginative and colourful outfits. The evening provided a relaxed setting for further networking, celebration and connection, with plenty of laughter, conversation and memorable moments shared among colleagues from across the country.
Closing the conference, Chair Paul Sadler thanked the speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, delegates, volunteers, MC Michael Pope and the National Conference Steering Committee for their contributions to the event’s success.
As delegates returned home, they carried with them new ideas, renewed energy and stronger connections. Most importantly, they left with a shared commitment to ensuring Meals on Wheels continues to play a vital role in supporting older Australians and building stronger communities for generations to come.
Early feedback suggests the 2026 Meals on Wheels National Conference was one of the most successful in the organisation’s history—a fitting reflection of what can be achieved when we come together with a common purpose.
Stronger Together was more than this year’s theme; it was evident in every conversation, partnership and connection formed throughout the conference.