APS Annual Conference : Home

Chair welcome

I am delighted to welcome you to the official website for the 48th Annual Australian Psychological Society Annual Conference, to be held in tropical far north Queensland, 8-12 October 2013.

Throughout Australia and the developed world, society is grappling with serious threats to the mental and physical health of the population. The challenge facing the psychology profession to play a central role in addressing health risks – social isolation, depression, physical inactivity and obesity amongst many others – has never been more pressing.

The conference theme of Psychology for a healthy nation represents a clarion call to the psychology profession to bring its considerable expertise to bear in finding solutions to the health challenges of the modern world.

The scientific committee is putting together a robust and engaging program of scientific and professional presentations that will include state-of-the-art keynote addresses by distinguished names in the international arena, papers and posters from the most accomplished psychology talent in the country and overseas, an exciting range of professional workshops, and those oft-requested applied ‘how to’ sessions delivered by expert practitioners.

The Cairns Convention Centre is a purpose-built, award-winning and convenient destination located 10 minutes from Cairns International Airport. Accommodation options to suit every budget are within walking distance.

Surrounded by ancient tropical rainforest and near white sandy beaches, Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and host to world class restaurants reflecting the cosmopolitan tastes of residents and visitors. The climate in Cairns during October averages 20 to 29 degrees Celsius, with lower rainfall than at other times of year – a pleasant change for those coming out of winter in our southern states.

Most of all, attending the Conference is a wonderful opportunity to gain new skills, hear about latest research and obtain resources that can be applied in your own work, with the added advantages of meeting like-minded colleagues, consulting with peers and having some fun as well.

So, please come and visit the relaxed city of Cairns in tropical north Queensland, the vibrancy of which will be reflected in the Conference program itself. We are confident that you will leave the Conference feeling reinvigorated physically, psychologically and intellectually.

Professor Peter Terry FAPS FASMF FBASES
Chair of the Scientific Committee
48th APS Annual Conference