Despite Australia being a wealthy, developed country, many aspects of the health and wellbeing of our young people have been declining. Many of the key indicators that measure how young people are faring remain unchanged or are worsening. Poor results for children can no longer be seen as the unfortunate side-effect of our economic progress. We need a better balance between economic progress and a socially and environmentally sustainable society… changes that benefit children invariably benefit all of us.

There is growing recognition that prevention is the most effective approach to addressing the problems affecting young people. The challenge is to make the radical shift to a preventive orientation, and to apply knowledge in specific social and political contexts. Primary prevention means identifying and dealing with the factors that lead to problems, rather than waiting until a problem shows up and treating the end result.

This conference will focus on how we can best learn from one another and work together to innovate and take action to improve outcomes for young Australians. The conference aims to build links between international and national experts, researchers, policy makers, practitioners, social entrepreneurs, marketers, business and financiers. It will explore pathways to success, and showcase preventive innovations that are improving the lives of children and young people.