Overview
AATC2024 – The Australian Rehabilitation and Assistive Technology Association (ARATA) stands as a national association with the primary purpose of providing a platform for information exchange and collaboration among individuals involved in the use, prescription, customisation, supply, and ongoing support of assistive technology. Since its establishment in the mid-90s, ARATA has been at the forefront of organizing various assistive technology-focused events, including a biennial conference, which was renamed the Australian AT Conference (AATC) in 2016.
We are excited to announce that the fourth Australian AT Conference (AATC) is scheduled to take place at the Gold Coast Convention Centre from November 6-8th, 2024. Themed “Sun Sea and AT: the rising tide of innovation and inclusive technology,” this two-day conference promises to be a hub of insightful discussions, knowledge sharing, and networking opportunities for professionals and enthusiasts in the field of assistive technology.
**Please note that optional Workshops take place on Wednesday 6th November – these can be added to your conference registration via the registration portal below. If you have already registered, please contact conference@aomevents.com to add a Workshop.
We encourage you to mark your calendars and join us for this exceptional event that aims to advance our collective understanding and application of assistive technology. Your participation is crucial to the success of the conference, and we look forward to welcoming you to the vibrant discussions and activities planned for the AATC 2024.
Pre-Conference Workshops and Conference Registration available!
Register now to network with like-minds and to share your knowledge and experience with enthusiasts in the field of assistive technology.
To receive the Student Pre-Conference Workshop prices, please contact conference@aomevents.com and include your student ID (or proof that you are a current student).
Eligibility for Student Pre-Conference Workshop prices includes undergraduates, postgraduates, and current students.
**All prices quoted are in Australian dollars and include GST.
The Student/Concession registration rate is designed for full-time students and individuals with limited or no income. This category may encompass some part-time workers, staff, and volunteers of smaller community-led organizations, holders of an Australian Low Income Health Care Card, and those currently without a wage. If you’re uncertain about your eligibility, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at conference@aomevents.com.
Delegates will be required to pay for the registration fee at the time of booking via credit card. If you require an invoice for your organisation to pay via EFT, you will need to contact the organisers below.
Full Program is now available
Download the full program now to explore the wide range of pre-conference workshops, keynote presentations, and oral presentations.
Program Overview
09.00 – 12.00 3-hour Workshops
12.00 – 12.30 Lunch, own catering arrangements
12.30 – 14.30 2-hour Workshops
14.30 – 15.00 Afternoon tea, own catering arrangements
15.00 – 17.00 2-hour Workshops
08.45 Conference Open and Welcome to Country
09.15 – 10.15 Opening Keynote Session: Professor Jacquie Ripat
10.15 – 10.55 Morning Tea and Exhibition
11.00 – 12.20 Concurrent Sessions
12.20 – 13.20 Lunch. Exhibition and Poster Presentations
13.20 – 14.40 Concurrent Sessions
14.40 – 15.15 Afternoon Tea and Exhibtion
15.20 – 16.00 Dr. Barry Seeger ORATION
16.00 – 17.30 Concurrent Sessions
17.30 – 19.30 Substantial Networking Event
07.45 – 08.30 ARATA AGM Breakfast Meeting (open to members and those interested in becoming a member)
09.00 – 10.00 Friday Keynote Session: Associate Professor Libby Callaway
10.00 – 10.40 Morning Tea and Exhibition
10.40 – 12.00 Concurrent Sessions
12.00 – 13.30 Lunch. Exhibition and Poster Presentations
13.30 – 14.30 Closing Keynote Session: Professor Simon Darcy
14.30 – 16.00 Concurrent Sessions
16.00 -16.30 Conference Close
Pre-Conference Workshop Overview
Morning Workshops, 9.00am - 12.00pm (3-hours)
65. Accessible Gaming Special Interest Group (SIG): An Introduction to Accessible Gaming
Andrew Congdon, Assistive Technology Lab, David Harraway, Yooralla and Jayden Dunn, National 360
100. Using assistive technology for cognitive support within everyday activities: Demonstrating products and providing resources for use by assistive technology advisors
Libby Callaway, Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University
133. Prevention, identification and measurement of postural asymmetry in lying
Denise Luscombe, Postural Care Australia and Bas Jansen, Postural Care Australia
126. Let’s ‘High Five’ Alternate Access – a hands on workshop
An Introductory workshop for those new to Electronic AT
Rachelle Baldock, Cerebral Palsy Alliance
93. Fundamentals of Intermediate Assistive Technology
Emily Nunn, Everyday Independence
Midday Workshops, 12.30pm - 2.30pm (2 hours)
20. Mobile phone access and Infra-red controls from Powered wheelchairs **Full
Karthik Pasumarthy, Rehabilitation Engineering Clinic, Department of Health
96. Minor modifications, equipment, and technology: A complementary partnership to achieve transformative outcomes
Elizabeth Ainsworth, Home Design for Living
112. Wheelie early: A global perspective on empowering early powered mobility
Rachael Mcdonald, Swinburne University of Technology
24. U-BEACH Workshop for Beach Accessibility
Sasha Job, Central Queensland University
82. Getting the Best out of Custom Seating
Jenni Dabelstein, Gizmo Rehabilitation
Afternoon Workshops, 3.00pm - 5.00pm (2 hours)
131. Artificial Intelligence and Assistive Technology: What Do You Need to Know?
Kate Anderson, RMIT University
144. Addressing complexity to create inclusive and innovative housing and technology solutions
Elizabeth Ainsworth, Home Design for Living
27. Best Practice Guidelines for Assessment and Selection of Mobile Shower Commode Chairs
Emma Friesen, University of Queensland, Cathy Young, Odyssey Consulting and Lois Brown, Ils Australia
72. Tool Time with Manual Wheelchairs
Amy Susanne Bjornson, Clinical Director – Sunrise Medical
32. Application of interface pressure mapping for pressure management and clinical intervention
Sandra Malkin, Rehabilitation Engineering Clinic
Access the Pre-Conference Workshop Descriptions below.
Morning Workshops
Accessible Gaming Special Interest Group (SIG): An Introduction to Accessible Gaming
Facilitated by Andrew Congdon, Assistive Technology Lab
Complexity of content: Introductory
ARATA’s Accessible Gaming Special Interest Group will provide an introduction to gaming and the technologies that can improve access for gamers who face challenges with mainstream gaming technologies. Participants will learn about the different technologies, how they work and will also get to trial a range of gaming equipment during the workshop.
Using assistive technology for cognitive support within everyday activities: Demonstrating products and providing resources for use by assistive technology advisors
Facilitated by Libby Callaway, Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University
Complexity of content: Introductory to intermediate
This workshop will demonstrate use of a range of assistive products, and information, resources and checklists on how to use technology, for cognitive support in everyday activities after acquired brain injury (ABI) and other conditions that impact executive functioning. Tools for both people with ABI and their families, and health professionals and other technology advisors, will be presented.
Prevention, identification and measurement of postural asymmetry in lying
Facilitated by Denise Luscombe, Postural Care Australia and Bas Jansen, Postural Care Australia
Complexity of content: Introductory
Adults and children with cerebral palsy (CP) who are wheelchair dependent are particularly vulnerable to chest, spinal, pelvic and hip postural asymmetry. This workshop will focus on managing supported lying postures: understanding prevention, measurement and intervention strategies for common postural asymmetries, and utilising standardised and modified manual outcome measurement options.
Let’s ‘High Five’ Alternate Access – a hands-on workshop, an Introductory workshop for those new to Electronic AT
Facilitated by Rachelle Baldock, Cerebral Palsy Alliance
Complexity of content: The content will be introductory. Each workstation will have cheat sheets for participants to work through to guide their exploration of each method of alternate access.
This is an introductory practical workshop for people new to electronic AT. Participants will rotate in small groups around five workstations for different methods of control (touch, mouse, voice, switch and eye gaze). Decision making frameworks to select the right tool for the task will also be explored.
Fundamentals of Intermediate Assistive Technology
Facilitated by Emily Nunn, Everyday Independence
Complexity of content: Intermediate. Best suited to occupational therapists and/ or physiotherapists with at least 12 months post-graduate clinical experience, working in the disability and/ or community sector. Content is targeted towards practitioners who are wishing to expand their general OT/PT scope of practice to prescribe mid complexity assistive technology (not scripted/ high cost/ postural considerations). Suited to practitioners supporting people through the NDIS.
This workshop will introduce learners to the fundamentals of Assistive Technology for emerging AT Assessors. Workshop content will explore topics related to best practice steps for AT interventions and applying these to practical scenarios. It is best suited to occupational therapists and physiotherapists with at least 12 months post-graduate experience, working in the disability and/ or community sector.
Midday Workshops
Mobile phone access and Infra-red controls from Powered wheelchairs
Facilitated by Karthik Pasumarthy, Rehabilitation Engineering Clinic, Department of Health
Complexity of content: Intermediate ~ advanced
This workshop will deliver hands-on experience to attendees on how to optimise accessibility and interface features between power wheelchairs and their own Android or iOS phone. Aswell as setting up Infra-red (IR) control of IR operated devices such as a TV from a PWC
Minor modifications, equipment, and technology: A complementary partnership to achieve transformative outcomes
Facilitated by Elizabeth Ainsworth, Home Design for Living
Complexity of content: Introductory, intermediated and advanced
This workshop will discuss the complexity of decision making that is highlighted in an Australian framework of minor and major home modification service delivery. Attendees will also discuss the value of combining minor modifications and equipment with home technologies to create solutions that result in
Wheelie early: A global perspective on empowering early powered mobility
Facilitated by Rachael McDonald, Swinburne University of Technology
Complexity of content: Intermediate to advanced
Early access to powered mobility has shown multiple benefits in addition to mobility. This workshop will review the emerging evidence, gain an understanding of international expertise and finish with a call to action for future to participants to become engaged in data collection to grow the evidence base and influence policy.
U-BEACH Workshop for Beach Accessibility
Facilitated by Sasha Job, Central Queensland University
Complexity of content: Introductory
With increasing community demand and assistive technology for beach access, a critical missing piece to improve beach accessibility is training. This workshop presents key barriers to beach access and evidence-based facilitators and practical ideas to overcome them. This will support the execution of accessible beaches and establishment of beach-based services.
Getting the Best out of Custom Seating
Facilitated by Jenni Dabelstein, Gizmo Rehabilitation
Complexity of content: Intermediate
When should clinicians consider a fully bespoke system instead of a customisable off-the-shelf item, and when should early intervention be considered? What are the key strategies for success, and what are the potential pitfalls? What processes are required, to successfully assess, prescribe, mould and fit bespoke seating? Hear the theory, see the case studies, and join us for a practical demonstration.
Afternoon Workshops
Artificial Intelligence and Assistive Technology: What Do You Need to Know?
Facilitated by Kate Anderson, RMIT University
Complexity of content: Introductory
This workshop is for anyone. We will explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is being used in assistive technologies, and how to tell the difference between responsible and risky AI. Participants will draft an AI learning plan for themselves or their team, and co-develop plain language explanations of important AI concepts.
Addressing complexity to create inclusive and innovative housing and technology solutions
Facilitated by Elizabeth Ainsworth, Home Design for Living
Complexity of content: Introductory, intermediated and advanced
This workshop will showcase the housing experience of a client with complex needs. Attendees will explore the range of complexities associated with achieving innovative and inclusive housing and technology solutions, and ways to address these complexities. There will also be discussion about industry resources to assist practice.
Best Practice Guidelines for Assessment and Selection of Mobile Shower Commode Chairs
Facilitated by Emma Friesen, University of Queensland
Complexity of content: Introductory and advanced
This will be a two-hour practical for prescribing therapists to support people with complex pressure and postural needs in assessing and prescribing mobile shower commode chairs.
Tool Time with Manual Wheelchairs
Facilitated by Amy Susanne Bjornson, Clinical Director – Sunrise Medical
Complexity of content: Introductory intermediate
Don’t let the lack of confidence prevent you from making changes to your client’s manual wheelchair. During this workshop, attendees will have the opportunity to adjust the wheelchair set up and seating system. We’ll show you how to easily make these adjustments. Attendees will feel how these changes effect posture and function first-hand.
Application of interface pressure mapping for pressure management and clinical intervention
Facilitated by Sandra Malkin, Rehabilitation Engineering Clinic
Complexity of content: Introductory to intermediate
This workshop will cover concepts of pressure mapping, how to use the system, interpreting the results, artefacts and misinterpretations associated, and how to carry out pressure mapping remotely and the equipment required to do it. Case studies will be used to demonstrate use of the pressure mapping system to assist with clinical reasoning and practice.
Organising Committee
Desleigh de Jonge
Conference Chair
Lecturer/Research Fellow,
The University of Queensland
Amy Bjornson
Physio, ATP, SMS Clinical Director, Sunrise Medical
David Hobbs
Senior Lecturer in Rehabilitation Engineering, Flinders University
Denise Luscombe
Paediatric Physiotherapist, Director Postural Care Australia
Wendy Milgate
Lecturer in Occupational Therapy, Australian Catholic University
Trina Phuah
Lecturer, Occupational Therapy at Charles Sturt University
Riley Saban
Assistive Technology Adviser
Michele Verdonck
Senior Lecturer, Occupational Therapy, School of Health, UniSC
David Vosnacos
Advanced Senior Therapist: Assistive Technology, Innovation and Inclusion, VisAbility
Open Exhibition
There will be an Open Exhibition during AATC 2024, express your interest with the button below.
Students
Open to Students on Thursday, 7th November, 3.15pm – 5.00pm.
Consumer Groups
Open to Consumer Groups on Friday, 8th November, 9.00am – 12.00pm.
Interested in Sponsorship and Exhibition?
There will be a number of opportunities for organisational branding and recognition both in the lead up to and during the Conference. For more information please contact Chelsea O’Brien (Sponsorship and Exhibition) via chelsea.obrien@aomevents.com if you are interested in sponsoring or exhibiting at AATC2024.
Our Sponsors
Gold Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Digital Advertiser
Our Exhibitors
Venue
Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre
The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre is the premier Gold Coast venue where large-scale national and international conferences and exhibitions roll out seamlessly from beginning to end; a concert and sporting event destination where every seat is the best seat in the house; a place where the standard and presentation of every dish showcases the creativity and passion of its experienced team of award-winning chefs.
Located in the heart of Broadbeach, just 500 metres to the beach and walking distance to thousands of accommodation options, GCCEC is Australia’s largest regional convention centre.
For more information, visit the GCCEC website here.
The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) is committed to providing access that is open, safe and inclusive for all our visitors. Designed with accessibility in mind, our venue offers entry to and movement throughout the Centre via wheelchair and mobility equipment.
This guide aims to accurately describe and provide an overview of our facilities and services in house and the surrounding areas.
GCCEC has released a Welcome Story offering visitors an overview of their entire journey within the venue, from arrival to departure. It provides detailed information about transportation options, the appearance of the venue and its spaces, the friendly faces visitors will encounter, quieter areas, bathroom facilities, and much more. This follows the venue’s recent attainment of Accessibility Accreditation through the Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC).
The Visual Welcome Story, prepared in collaboration with Autism Queensland, supports visitors of all abilities in feeling prepared for their visit and welcome to GCCEC. It is a step-by-step guide to accessing GCCEC and a description of what visitors may experience at the venue. The story is an additional resource to the venue’s Accessibility Guide
The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) has achieved Master Certification through EarthCheck, the world’s leading business advisory group specialising in sustainability and destination management for the travel and tourism industry.
The recognition comes as a result of 15 years of unwavering commitment to sustainability under the direction of EarthCheck. Since opening in 2004, GCCEC has implemented many effective projects and initiatives including an overarching sustainability policy, green event checklist, Green Team, waste and water reduction processes, power-saving equipment, and compostable products.
Destination
The Gold Coast is gaining a reputation as one of the most inclusive cities in Australia and is a preferred destination for travellers with accessibility needs. From our airport to accommodation, shopping centres, public parks and beaches, we’re proud of the significant progress we’ve made. We’re working to ensure there are more opportunities for people of all abilities to experience a range of accessible and inclusive events, entertainment, natural areas, tourism experiences and local sports and recreational activities in our city.
Destination Gold Coast continues to work closely with various levels of government, community partners, our suppliers and other agencies to create a city where everyone’s included. And crucially, the City of Gold Coast partners with people who have lived experience of disability to inform the development of more inclusive activities, venues and initiatives.
Accommodation
Avani Broadbeach
Live large on the beautiful Gold Coast. Whether you’re in town for business or play, you’re only a skip and a hop from all the action.
Avani Broadbeach Residences hits the spot… with a location loved by locals for its 17 km stretch of beach, epic surf, and ritzy dining and entertainment options. You’re also only a few minutes’ walk from the G:link tram that takes you up and down the coast to Surfers Paradise, Southport and beyond.
1 Bedroom Suite
Room rate per night: $239.00
Super spacious with everything you need to settle in and make yourself at home. Dash to the beach for some fun in the sun, then return for a long cool shower, snacks and downtime. Located on the lower levels with full kitchen and laundry facilities in your suite.
No penalty applies for bookings cancelled up to 30 days prior to arrival. Bookings cancelled between 29 to 14 days prior to arrival, a cancellation fee equal to 1 night for every confirmed booking cancelled will apply. Bookings cancelled or no-shows within 14 days of arrival will be charged at the agreed rate for the number of nights cancelled.
All cancellations must be made in writing to All Occasions Group via email or full booking charges will apply. For any modification to your reservation, please contact us at conference@aomevents.com.
Dorsett Gold Coast
Located on Broadbeach Island and forming part of The Star Gold Coast’s world-class entertainment and leisure destination, Dorsett Gold Coast combines the best of stylish inner-city vibrancy and idyllic beachside escape for memorable stays on the Gold Coast. Just 500m from Kurrawa Beach, moments away from Pacific Fair Shopping Centre and adjacent to the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre; work, play and stay in a prime Gold Coast location just 30-minutes from the Gold Coast Airport.
Standard King Room
Room rate per night: $289.00
Standard King Rooms at Dorsett Gold Coast are elegantly designed to reflect the unique style of the Gold Coast. Enjoy stylish yet minimalistic interiors, complemented by bursts of refreshing colour.
Suited to all kinds of travellers, Standard King Rooms feature a range of amenities, including a large flat screen TV, Google Chromecast, in-room safe, lush bathroom products, a walk in massage and rain shower, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi.
No penalty will be applied for cancellations made 30 days or more prior to the scheduled arrival date. However, for cancellations or no-shows within 30 days or arrival, charges will be incurred at the agreed upon rate for the number of nights booked.
At the time of booking, the hotel will take a one-night deposit at 30 days.
All cancellations must be made in writing to All Occasions Group via email or full booking charges will apply. For any modification to your reservation, please contact us at conference@aomevents.com.
Oaks Gold Coast Hotel
When you’re ready for a Gold Coast getaway where you can take a stroll along the beach or shop til’ you drop at Pacific Fair, the perfect place to call your Gold Coast home is Oaks Gold Coast Hotel. Only steps away from our spectacular surf beaches, casinos and Cavill Avenue, you can walk or take a tram, which stops at our doorstep.
Feel like being a little more adventurous? Jump in the car and head to our world-famous theme parks or visit the beautiful Gold Coast Hinterland for a hike. With stylish hotel rooms, spacious studios or one and two bedroom apartments, there’s space for everyone at Oaks Gold Coast Hotel.
Hotel Room
Room rate per night: $209.00
- King sized bed
- Spa bath
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Air conditioning
- Balcony
- Inclusive Wi-Fi
- 46 m²
No penalty applies for bookings cancelled up to 30 days prior to arrival. Bookings cancelled between 29 to 14 days prior to arrival, a cancellation fee equal to 1 night for every confirmed booking cancelled will apply. Bookings cancelled or no-shows within 14 days of arrival will be charged at the agreed rate for the number of nights cancelled.
All cancellations must be made in writing to All Occasions Group via email or full booking charges will apply. For any modification to your reservation, please contact us at conference@aomevents.com.
Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach
Your luxurious pied-à-terrein Broadbeach awaits your arrival. With 296 rooms and suites offering staggering Pacific Ocean vistas and hinterland views, Sofitel Gold Coast Broadbeach is your peaceful sanctuary in southern Queensland. Superlative comforts, including a sumptuous Sofitel MyBed™, combine with seamless service for a stay to remember. Put your feet up, relax and take time for you. We’ll take care of everything else.
Rating:
Distance:
300m
Check In/Out:
Check in 15.00 – Checkout 11.00
Breakfast/Parking:
Full buffet breakfast is available at $35 per guest.
Website:
Address:
Classic River View Room (Wheelchair Accessible)
Room rate per night: $269.00
Enjoy a peaceful stay in a 37sqm Classic River View room. Take in sweeping views of the Nerang River and the Gold Coast hinterland from your private balcony as the sun slowly sinks beneath the horizon. Pamper yourself with luxurious French amenities. Relax surrounded by contemporary furnishings. Feel welcome. Feel at home.
At the end of a fulfilling day in tranquil Broadbeach, nestle between the plush sheets of your twin or king-size Sofitel MyBed™ – thanks to our signature Sleep Menu, you’ve found just the right place to lay your head. Bonne nuit!
No cancellation fee will apply to cancellation made 30 or more days prior to arrival. Any reservation cancelled within 30 days of arrival will be charged a cancelation fee equal to the total value of the reservation. This cancellation fee will be charged to the credit card provided at the time of making the reservation. All credit card payments incur a 1.4% Merchant Service Fee.
All cancellations must be made in writing to All Occasions Group via email or full booking charges will apply. For any modification to your reservation, please contact us at conference@aomevents.com.