ResiROCKS 2026

Across the day, attendees heard from a expert presenters who shared insights on the importance of belonging and its vital role for children, young people and the residential care workforce.

Dr Billy Garvey, developmental paediatrician, researcher, author, and media commentator
with over 26 years of frontline experience with children and families— delivered a thought-provoking keynote drawing on his professional expertise and lived experience.

He explored self-care strategies for residential care practitioners and emphasised the importance of genuinely engaging with and understanding the unique experiences of each child and young person. Dr Garvey also highlighted how recognising the many factors that shape a young person’s sense of belonging is fundamental to ensuring children and young people in care feel heard, seen, valued and connected.

16 Yards, a community mentoring organisation led by lived-experience advocates, screened their powerful documentary ‘The Blueprint’. Through the stories of young men with lived experience of the Australian residential care system, the documentary explored their journeys of growth and transformation as they navigated belonging, transformation and identity in adulthood.

Following the documentary, Dr Stephane Shepherd, CEO and co-founder of 16 Yards, and Shayne Hood, co-founder of 16 Yards took part in a Q&A session which highlighted the importance of strengths-based approaches as a proponent of lasting positive outcomes and potential building.

Getting everyone up, moving and energised, Appiah and Ben from Beyond the Boardroom delivered a body percussion session. Through rhythmic movement, drumming, laughter and encouragement, the room was filled with a shared sense of connection, demonstrating how belonging can be fostered through collective experiences.

Recognising our carers knowledge and skills

The ‘Spotlight on Practice’ interviews, put the ‘ROCKS’ in ResiROCKS, showcasing the expertise of residential care practitioners.

Residential carers took to the mic, sharing examples of their innovative practice and how it has helped build meaningful relationships and create spaces where young people in their care feel heard, valued and at home. Through their reflections, carers highlighted how a sense of belonging is fostered in everyday moments by placing children and young people at the centre of decision-making and ensuring their voices are acknowledged and respected.