2026 Prader-Willi Syndrome Research and Family Conference
Pathways Forward: Where Hope Ignites Innovation
The 2026 Prader-Willi Research and Family Conference, Pathways Forward: Where Hope Ignites Innovation, will be the landmark event of the year for the Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) community. Hosted by the Prader-Willi Research Foundation Australia (PWRFA), the conference will bring together researchers, scientists, clinicians, families, and the wider disability and rare disease community.
Across three inspiring days, the program will showcase world-leading Australian research, highlight innovative clinical practices, and provide families with resources, workshops, and community connections. Delegates can look forward to a mix of international plenary speakers, research symposiums, and a dedicated family program, alongside special events including the PWS Gala Dinner and a Cocktail Welcome Reception.
This year’s theme reflects our vision of a future where cutting-edge research, compassionate care, and empowered families come together to create new possibilities for people living with PWS. It acknowledges the challenges while celebrating the hope, resilience, and innovation that drive progress.
Mission Statement:
The 2026 Prader-Willi Research and Family Conference is dedicated to empowering people with PWS and their families across all life stages, while advancing scientific discovery and clinical excellence. By fostering collaboration between researchers, clinicians, families, and community advocates, we aim to accelerate learning, strengthen connections, and amplify the voices of people with PWS nationwide.
Dates: 28th to 30th August 2026
Location: Brisbane Airport Conference Centre, Queensland
2026 Highlights
Building on the overwhelming success of our 2024 conference—where attendees praised the cutting-edge treatment insights, world-class presenters, groundbreaking research, and invaluable opportunities to connect with families, researchers, and clinicians—the 2026 edition takes everything you loved and amplifies it with exciting new features:
Expanded International Program: More global voices and cross-country collaboration opportunities, bringing you the latest advances in PWS research and treatment from around the world.
Research Catalyst Dinner: An exclusive gathering designed to spark new partnerships between researchers, clinicians, and decision-makers. This intimate setting creates the perfect environment for meaningful conversations that could shape the future of PWS care.
Dedicated Family Program: Practical workshops on navigating the NDIS, building advocacy skills, and connecting with support networks. These sessions provide the tools and knowledge families need to champion their loved ones.
Clinical Trial Showcase: Every clinical trial currently recruiting in Australia will have the opportunity to present and connect directly with families, making it easier than ever to explore participation and ask questions.
Enhanced Networking Opportunities: From the Cocktail Welcome Reception to carefully designed informal connection spaces throughout the venue, we've created more moments for you to build the lasting partnerships and friendships that strengthen our community.
This year's program is designed not just to inform but to ignite hope, inspire action, and strengthen the bonds that make our PWS community so remarkable.