At a time of global economic insecurity, exacerbated by the challenges of climate change, how can we create a society that is both socially and economically inclusive within its own borders and actively engaged with its regional neighbours?

Current realities, possibilities and the practical challenges involved in meeting these goals will be discussed at the 2009 Australian Social Policy Conference, which runs from 8-10 July at the University of New South Wales.

The three-day conference, hosted by the University's Social Policy Research Centre, is held only every two years and is a key agenda setter. More than 130 contributed papers will be presented by leading national and international policy experts.

ASPC 2009 highlights:• Opening address by Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce, Governor-General of Australia • Keynote address by Naomi Eisenstadt, Director of the Social Exclusion Task Force, UK Cabinet Office• Keynote address by Tom Calma, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner and Race Discrimination Commissioner, Australian Human Rights Commission• Keynote address by Professor Ann Orloff, Professor of Sociology, Gender Studies and Political Science at Northwestern University USA, and Chair of the International Sociological Association Research Committee 19• Special session on the prevention of violence against women• Forums on the financial crisis and service delivery in hard times• For the first time the conference will include a one-day workshop on developments in Chinese social policy

The full conference program is available at the Social Policy Research Centre website.

What: 2009 Australian Social Policy Conference: An Inclusive Society? Practicalities and PossibilitiesWhen: Wednesday 8 July-Friday 10 July, 2009 (opening session starts at 11am)Where: The John Niland Scientia Building, UNSW Kensington campus

For more information: Melissa Roughley, SPRC on 02 9385 7812.

Media contact: Denise Knight, UNSW Media | 02 9385 8920 | 0405 207 685