Australia's largest conference dedicated to improving outcomes for Indigenous children and families begins in Magandjin/Brisbane on Tuesday, bringing together more than 2,000 leaders, advocates and experts from across the country.

The biennial, three-day SNAICC'25 conference will showcase Aboriginal-led excellence and share lived experience and research aimed at strengthening national commitment to reform.

Held under the theme "Our Culture. Keep it Strong. We Belong," the event features Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous organisations, policymakers, educators, researchers, frontline workers and government representatives — all focused on improving outcomes for First Nations children.

Hosted by SNAICC – National Voice for our Children, the conference has been described by CEO Catherine Liddle as the organisation's most impactful yet. She said Closing the Gap starts with children and called the gathering a "showcase of knowledge, excellence and experience in what it takes to make that happen".

"We've seen what's possible," Ms Liddle said. "Our last conference helped galvanise the appointment of Australia's first National Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and Young People.

"This year, I know we will go even further — the ideas, advocacy and collaboration that we see come out of SNAICC'25 will be monumental in driving impactful reform."

The creation of the National Commissioner role, announced last year, marked a major step in addressing the serious challenges facing First Nations children, including the over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in out-of-home care (OOHC).

Ngemba woman Lil Gordon served as interim Commissioner for the first eight months of 2024 before former Yoorrook Commissioner Sue-Anne Hunter was appointed to the position full-time in September.

"This gathering is happening at a critical moment," Ms Liddle said. "We have the policy levers, and we have a National Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children ready to drive change."

Commissioner Hunter will address the conference this week, focusing on actions needed to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children grow up safe and supported.

The program also includes a keynote presentation featuring Dr Katrina Wruck, Professor Jack Beetson, Adjunct Associate Professor Joe Williams and Fiona Jose, as well as a presentation from SNAICC's new Youth Voice and more than 80 breakout sessions led by Indigenous experts.

Ms Liddle said sustained collaboration and accountability were key to success, calling for "sustained action by governments, proper investment in the ACCO sector, empowered Commissioners and evidence-based systems that replace the status quo".

"SNAICC'25 demonstrates we have the tools to build the bridge that will close the gap for our children. What is needed is the will to get on the tools and work together," she said.