Welcome!
We hope you enjoy exploring the conference information below.
If you would like to secure your place or have any further questions please complete the enquiry form or contact the team from Education at Sea, our conference partners, on:
- 02 7908 7774
- [email protected]
What this Conference is about
In an era of rapidly evolving demographics, technologies, workforce shifts and global health threats, the delivery of health care is under unprecedented pressure — and unprecedented opportunity. Health systems everywhere wrestle with ageing populations, rising chronic disease burdens, escalating costs, workforce fatigue and shortages, digital & data transformation, equity and access gaps, climate change, pandemics and the burgeoning promise (and peril) of artificial intelligence and genomics.
By 2027, we expect these pressures to intensify and intersect in new ways: models of care must shift from acute, episodic treatment to proactive, integrated, community-based, data-driven, patient-centred structures. Attention must be paid not just to what care is delivered, but how, where, by whom, and under what system of values.
This conference invites health care workers, educators, clinicians, policymakers, innovators and system leaders to explore the key issues shaping care delivery today — and to peer beyond the horizon to what is coming next. We’ll challenge the status quo, interrogate assumptions, highlight evidence, and practise pragmatic strategies. The aim is less “fluffy vision” and more “what works now, and what we must be ready for”.
Why Attend
Because this isn’t your typical conference, it’s professional growth wrapped in a tropical escape. Earn valuable CPD hours through engaging, evidence-based sessions while cruising from Tahiti to Fiji. Reconnect with like-minded professionals, recharge under the South Pacific sun, and return home inspired, renewed, and reminded why you love what you do.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this Conference, participants will be able to:
- Analyse major current and emerging drivers of change in health care delivery (e.g., demographic shifts, workforce dynamics, digital/AI, cost pressures, equity) and understand their implications for health care delivery, education and leadership.
- Evaluate new models of care and organisational responses that are being developed or trialled, including community-based, virtual/telehealth, integrated care, and how nurses and other health care workers can lead or adapt within them.
- Apply frameworks and strategies for building resilience in health services across workforce wellbeing, health system shocks (such as pandemics and climate events), and digital threats (including cybersecurity and data governance) to their own local context.
- Design or propose an initiative, practice improvement or policy change relevant to their setting that responds to one or more of these key issues (e.g., harnessing AI ethically in practice; redesigning care for older adults; strengthening inter-professional collaboration; addressing health inequities).
call for abstracts
We invite submissions from clinicians, educators, researchers and health leaders who can offer fresh, evidence-informed perspectives or practice-based insights. Abstracts addressing one of the conference themes may present:
- Original research, program evaluations, or innovations in care delivery
- Case studies highlighting lessons learned or best practice
- Policy or system reforms with practical implications
- Educational strategies and inter-professional initiatives
Submission Deadline: 30th April 2026
Conference Themes to Consider
Demographics, Chronic Disease & Ageing Populations
- The shifting burden: non-communicable diseases, multi-morbidities, geriatric complexity.
- Workforce implications: fewer working-age carers, more dependent older people.
- Designing care models for ageing in place, community vs institutional care.
- Health promotion, prevention and self-management in a chronically ill population.
Workforce, Wellbeing & Professional Practice
- Recruitment, retention, burnout and the evolving nursing role.
- New roles, advanced practice, substitution and inter-professional teams.
- Digital health literacy, competency development, lifelong learning.
- Boundaries, ethics and professionalism in new models of care (telehealth, AI, remote work).
Digital, Data, AI & Technology in Care Delivery
- Telehealth, remote monitoring, wearables and home-based care.
- Artificial intelligence, algorithm bias, ethics of machine-augmented care.
- Data interoperability, cybersecurity, digital resilience.
- Human + machine: what does health care delivery mean in a digitally-augmented future?
Equity, Access & Social Determinants of Health
- Health disparities by geography (rural/remote), socioeconomic status, and ethnicity.
- Addressing social determinants in the era of constrained resources.
- Cultural safety, inclusive care design, community participation in service planning.
- Global perspectives and lessons for Australia (and vice versa).
Sustainability, Cost Pressures & Value-Based Care
- Economic pressures: rising costs, inflation, constrained budgets.
- Value-based health care, outcomes measurement, service redesign.
- Environmental sustainability in health care delivery: climate change impacts, resource use, resilient infrastructure.
- Innovation vs waste: how to adopt selectively and responsibly.
System Resilience, Crisis Preparedness & Emerging Threats
- Lessons from pandemics (e.g., COVID 19) and other health shocks.
- Climate change, natural disasters, supply-chain disruption, cyber threats inside health care.
- Building agile systems: rapid response, adaptability, learning health systems.
- Leadership and change-management in high-stress, uncertain contexts.
Patient Experience, Consumerism & Care Models of the Future
- The empowered patient/consumer: expectations of convenience, access, digital engagement.
- Co-design, shared decision-making, personalised medicine/genomics.
- Shifting places of care: home, community, remote, hospital.
- Measuring what matters: patient-reported outcomes, experience metrics, real-world evidence.
call for abstracts
We invite submissions from clinicians, educators, researchers and health leaders who can offer fresh, evidence-informed perspectives or practice-based insights. Abstracts addressing one of the conference themes may present:
- Original research, program evaluations, or innovations in care delivery
- Case studies highlighting lessons learned or best practice
- Policy or system reforms with practical implications
- Educational strategies and inter-professional initiatives
Submission Deadline: 30th April 2026
Conference Themes to Consider
Demographics, Chronic Disease & Ageing Populations
- The shifting burden: non-communicable diseases, multi-morbidities, geriatric complexity.
- Workforce implications: fewer working-age carers, more dependent older people.
- Designing care models for ageing in place, community vs institutional care.
- Health promotion, prevention and self-management in a chronically ill population.
WORKFORCE, WELLBEING & PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE
- Recruitment, retention, burnout and the evolving nursing role.
- New roles, advanced practice, substitution and inter-professional teams.
- Digital health literacy, competency development, lifelong learning.
- Boundaries, ethics and professionalism in new models of care (telehealth, AI, remote work).
Digital, Data, AI & Technology in Care Delivery
- Telehealth, remote monitoring, wearables and home-based care.
- Artificial intelligence, algorithm bias, ethics of machine-augmented care.
- Data interoperability, cybersecurity, digital resilience.
- Human + machine: what does health care delivery mean in a digitally-augmented future?
EQUITY, ACCESS & SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH
- Health disparities by geography (rural/remote), socioeconomic status, and ethnicity.
- Addressing social determinants in the era of constrained resources.
- Cultural safety, inclusive care design, and community participation in service planning.
- Global perspectives and lessons for Australia (and vice versa).
Sustainability, Cost Pressures & Value-Based Care
- Economic pressures: rising costs, inflation, constrained budgets.
- Value-based health care, outcomes measurement, service redesign.
- Environmental sustainability in health care delivery: climate change impacts, resource use, resilient infrastructure.
- Innovation vs waste: how to adopt selectively and responsibly.
SYSTEM RESILIENCE, CRISIS PREPAREDNESS & EMERGING THREATS
- Lessons from pandemics (e.g., COVID 19) and other health shocks.
- Climate change, natural disasters, supply-chain disruption, cyber threats inside health care.
- Building agile systems: rapid response, adaptability, learning health systems.
- Leadership and change-management in high-stress, uncertain contexts.
Patient Experience, Consumerism & Care Models of the Future
- The empowered patient/consumer: expectations of convenience, access, digital engagement.
- Co-design, shared decision-making, personalised medicine/genomics.
- Shifting places of care: home, community, remote, hospital.
- Measuring what matters: patient-reported outcomes, experience metrics, real-world evidence.
Not your typical Nursing CPD Conference
Our Presenters:
Christine Witkopp
Christine Wittkopp is an experienced Nurse Unit Manager with over four decades in nursing and healthcare leadership. She is currently the Nurse Unit Manager at Healesville Hospital and Yarra Valley Health within Eastern Health, a role she has held since 2013 (with a brief period contributing to the Eastern Health EMR Project at Box Hill Hospital).
Christine’s career spans acute care, rehabilitation, day surgery, orthopaedics, colorectal and vascular nursing, aged care, and private and public health sectors. She has held numerous senior clinical and leadership roles across Eastern Health and Knox Private Hospital, demonstrating sustained expertise in team leadership, service development, education, and patient-centred care.
Her strong commitment to professional development is reflected in her academic achievements, including a Master of Nursing from Monash University, Graduate Certificates in Health Service Management, Clinical Leadership, Clinical Education, and Orthopaedics, as well as a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment. Christine began her nursing career following General Nurse Training at Epworth Hospital in 1985.
In addition to her clinical and leadership roles, Christine has contributed significantly to nursing education as a Clinical Nurse Educator and remains actively engaged in professional development and governance. She is a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society (Monash and La Trobe Chapters), the College of Nursing, and the Nurses Memorial Centre.
Christine is recognised for her leadership integrity, commitment to quality improvement, and dedication to fostering supportive and high-performing clinical environments.
Jason Dawson
Jason is from the Gold Coast, Queensland. Whilst studying for his Bachelor of Nursing at Southern Cross University, he developed an interest in mental health and has worked in this field of nursing for many years since completing his studies in 2008.
During this time, Jason has undertaken varied roles, including Acute Inpatient Nursing, Community Nursing, clinical facilitating and Nurse Unit Manager positions.
In 2012, Jason combined his passion for nursing with his love of travel and founded CPD Cruise Pty Ltd with the view to providing Nurses, Midwives, Allied Health Professionals and Teachers /Educators the opportunity to update and improve their skills in diverse and unique locations.
mark Wiltshire
Mark is an environmental engineer with over 25 years experience in the water industry. He has worked in technical, business development, project and managerial capacities in water utilities and the private sector. Over this time he has been involved in the many different aspects of the water industry including stakeholder engagement, managing water infrastructure, delivering water recycling schemes and other water technologies.
Mark’s work in community engagement, spans decades and he has been responsible for delivering community change programs to reduce water consumption and environmental pollution. He is an avid traveller, a lover of cruising and has a keen interest for human health through water.
Sue Walker
Sue Walker is an Australian nurse, conference director, CPD specialist, and nurse educator with a strong public health focus with experience spanning clinical practice, leadership, education and health system improvement.
Sue is the Director and Co-Founder of Nurses for Nurses (NfN), delivering national and international conferences, study tours and professional development programs for nurses and midwives. She is also a key contributor to Nursing CPD, an online education platform supporting nurses to meet NMBA Continuing Professional Development requirements through accessible, evidence-based learning that is firmly grounded in real-world practice.
Sue holds degrees in Nursing and Health Administration, a Master of Primary Health, and postgraduate qualifications in areas including psychiatry of ageing, gerontology, chemotherapy administration and training and assessment. Her career has included frontline clinical roles, senior management and education leadership, giving her a practical, end-to-end understanding of how healthcare policy, workforce pressures and clinical realities collide at the point of care, in the community and across the system.
A sought-after presenter in Australia and internationally, Sue focuses on the issues nurses actually face at work — not just what looks good in policy documents. Her areas of interest include leadership without titles, public and population health, professional boundaries, workplace culture and incivility, bullying and moral distress, emergency management, aged care, mental health, advanced life support education, and the long-term psychological impact of caring work. She is particularly passionate about strengthening clinical judgement, professional confidence and practical strategies that protect both patient safety and workforce sustainability.
Sue is known for education that is evidence-based, unapologetically practical and grounded in the lived experience of nursing. Her programs move beyond surface-level wellbeing conversations to explore how organisational design, risk management and workforce policy shape daily practice and long-term career outcomes.
At the heart of her work is a simple belief: nurses and midwives are not just the backbone of healthcare — they are critical decision-makers whose knowledge, judgement and advocacy directly influence patient outcomes and system safety. Sue’s goal is to ensure nurses and midwives are supported and professionally empowered to meet the growing complexity of modern healthcare while sustaining long, fulfilling careers.
Conference Program:
The Conference is offered in two complementary formats designed to support effective adult learning. You’ll enjoy live, in-person sessions in the Conference Room, while also gaining access to an online library that opens before the event begins. This library is a core part of the overall program and includes Presenter-supplied resources such as:
- Research papers
- Links to external content
- Recorded conference sessions
- Supporting videos
- Audio and podcast episodes
The research documents and recorded presentations contribute to your Continuing Professional Development hours.
Below is a snapshot of the Conference Program – full conference program still to be finalised.
Itinerary:
Day 1: 11/07/27
Depart Papeete (Tahiti), French Polynesia
1800 – 1900: Welcome Drinks and Registration Function
Come along and meet the presenters and other conference attendees. Pick up your conference pack and learn about the conference program and general information about conference cruising.
2200: We set sail
Day 2: 12/07/27
Moorea, French Polynesia
0700 – 1700: Explore this Port at your Leisure
Just a short sail from Tahiti lies Moorea, a vision of emerald peaks rising from a turquoise lagoon. Known as the “Magical Island,” Moorea feels like stepping into a postcard where lush mountains tumble into the sea, and time slows to the rhythm of the waves. Whether you’re exploring hidden bays, tasting fresh pineapple from local plantations, or simply floating in the warm, crystal-clear water, Moorea captures the heart and leaves a lasting sense of calm and wonder.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Join presenters and other attendees to discuss the events of the day and get to know each other.
Day 3: 13/07/27
Raiatea, French Polynesia
0700 – 1700: Explore this Port at your Leisure
Rich in legend and lush with tropical beauty, Raiatea is often called the “Sacred Island” — the spiritual heart of Polynesia. It’s a place where history, culture, and nature intertwine; where ancient marae (temples) whisper stories of the past, and winding rivers lead deep into rainforest valleys. Peaceful and profoundly beautiful, Raiatea offers a glimpse into the soul of the islands — calm, connected, and timeless.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Join presenters and other attendees to discuss the events of the day and get to know each other.
Day 4: 14/07/27
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
0700 – 1700: Explore this Port at your Leisure
Few places on earth capture the imagination quite like Bora Bora. With its crystal-clear lagoon, overwater bungalows, and emerald peaks rising straight from the sea, it’s the very definition of paradise. Whether you’re drifting over coral gardens, strolling the soft white sands, or simply watching the sun paint the sky in shades of gold and rose, Bora Bora will leave you breathless — and wishing time would stand still.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Join presenters and other attendees to discuss the events of the day and get to know each other.
Day 5: 15/07/27
conference day
This will be a full conference day, which will include sessions in line with the conference themes.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Join presenters and other attendees to discuss the events of the day and get to know each other.
Day 6: 16/07/27
Rarotonga, Cook Islands
0700 – 1600: Explore this Port at your Leisure
Rarotonga is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave. Encircled by a turquoise lagoon and framed by lush volcanic peaks, it’s both breathtaking and beautifully simple. Whether you’re exploring coral reefs, strolling through the markets, or simply watching the palm trees sway, Rarotonga feels like the South Pacific at its most pure — warm, welcoming, and wonderfully unhurried.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Join presenters and other attendees to discuss the events of the day and get to know each other.
Day 7: 17/07/27
conference day
This will be a full conference day, which will include sessions in line with the conference themes.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Join presenters and other attendees to discuss the events of the day and get to know each other.
Day 8: 18/07/27
Pago Pago, American Samoa
0900 – 1800: Explore this Port at your Leisure
Framed by dramatic green peaks and a sparkling harbour, Pago Pago is pure island beauty.
Friendly locals, colourful markets, and lush rainforest walks make it a stop that feels both wild and welcoming — the perfect mix of adventure and island charm.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Join presenters and other attendees to discuss the events of the day and get to know each other.
Day 9: 19/07/27
conference day
This will be a full conference day, which will include sessions in line with the conference themes.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Join presenters and other attendees to discuss the events of the day and get to know each other.
Day 10: 20/07/27
Apia, Samoa Islands
0700 – 1700: Explore this Port at your Leisure
Bursting with colour and culture, Apia is the heart of the Samoan Islands — where island life feels both relaxed and deeply alive. Wander the waterfront, visit the lively markets, or take in the island’s natural beauty with waterfalls and lush gardens just a short drive away. Everywhere you go, you’ll be met with warmth, music, and that unmistakable Samoan spirit.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Join presenters and other attendees to discuss the events of the day and get to know each other.
Day 11: 21/07/27
Apia, Samoa Islands
0700 – 1700: Explore this Port at your Leisure
Bursting with colour and culture, Apia is the heart of the Samoan Islands — where island life feels both relaxed and deeply alive. Wander the waterfront, visit the lively markets, or take in the island’s natural beauty with waterfalls and lush gardens just a short drive away. Everywhere you go, you’ll be met with warmth, music, and that unmistakable Samoan spirit.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Join presenters and other attendees to discuss the events of the day and get to know each other.
Day 12: 22/07/27
conference day
This will be a full conference day, which will include sessions in line with the conference themes.
1800 – 1900: Networking Session
Join presenters and other attendees to discuss the events of the day and get to know each other.
Day 13: 23/07/27
Dravuni Island, Fiji
0700 – 1700: Explore this Port at your Leisure
Tiny, untouched, and utterly beautiful — Dravuni Island is the South Pacific at its most pure. With soft white sand, swaying palms, and water so clear it feels unreal, this little gem offers a glimpse of island life unchanged for generations. A perfect spot to slow down, breathe, and simply enjoy paradise.
1800 – 1900: Farewell Function
Day 14: 24/07/27
Lautoka, Fiji
0700: Disembark – safe travels!
Our journey ends in Lautoka, Fiji’s lively “Sugar City,” where emerald mountains meet the sparkling sea. It’s the perfect place to say vinaka — thank you — to the islands that have inspired, restored, and reconnected us. As you disembark, take with you the warmth of Fijian smiles, the calm of the ocean, and memories of a voyage that blended learning, laughter, and pure island magic.
Inclusions
- An extensive Conference program based on current best practice
- Education content that meets the same exacting standards as anything offered in an Australian land-based program
- Conference presenters are excited to be able to share their skills, knowledge, and passion with Conference Attendees
- An online Conference library filled to the brim with educational content that allows you to create your own learning experience by completing pre-conference education activities
- A Registration Reception including complimentary drinks, where you can meet other Conference Attendees and network with Conference Convenors and Conference Presenter/s
- A Conference pack that includes, pen, a lanyard (this is important on a cruise ship to attach your room key, which becomes your lifeline on a ship) and additional information to support a fantastic Conference experience
- The opportunity to meet as a group in various Conference open forums, in one of the many fabulous locations on the ship
- A complimentary Farewell Drinks Function held on the last night of the Conference to celebrate new friendships and information gained
- A Conference Transcript that identifies each session including the session synopsis and session presenter
- A Certificate of Completion identifying the CPD hours attached to the Conference Program for you to include in your CPD Evidence Portfolio
Registration Costs
$1,390.00
Please Note: Conference registration does not include accommodation or travel costs.
What are you waiting for?
This is a fabulous program – to secure your place at this Conference simply contact Education at Sea to find out about all the cabin options available.
Once you have paid your deposit, your registration is confirmed, and you can start planning your Conference getaway.
Disclaimer: The opinions and statements of facts expressed in the Papers in these proceedings are those of the Authors and do not necessarily represent those of the Nurses for Nurses Network (NfNN), the editors, the organising committee or the supporters of this conference. No responsibility can be accepted by the organisers for errors or omissions in the individual papers. Sessions are correct at time of publication. Sessions are subject to change without notice due to circumstances beyond the control of the organisers. NfNN reserves the right to alter charges, cancel, postpone, change or withdraw the product or service at any time.
Need more info or a personalised quote?
The Venue:
Norwegian Spirit
Elegant, modern, and designed for adventure, the Norwegian Spirit is the perfect home at sea. With spacious decks, ocean-view lounges, world-class dining, and attentive service, every moment on board feels effortless.
Whether you’re unwinding by the pool, catching a show, or watching the sun dip below the horizon, the Spirit makes the journey as unforgettable as the destinations themselves.
Let’s talk about your accommodation
Every accommodation type on the MSC Preziosa is thoughtfully designed with elegant décor, ensuring that regardless of the category, guests will find a welcoming and stylish space.
Simply unpack and let the relaxation begin. Your dedicated room steward will ensure your space is cleaned and organized daily, leaving you with the simple task of getting dressed, grabbing your bag, and embarking on your adventure.
Dining Options
The foodie in you is just waiting to be awakened and delighted, and what better way than on this cruise filled with mouth-watering main dishes, irresistible desserts, and deliciousness at every turn.
Onboard MSC Preziosa, a culinary journey awaits, featuring the dynamic menus of the main dining areas, inventive all-day offerings at the Galaxy Lounge, among other delightful experiences.
With plenty of choices, the only question is: where do you even begin?
unwind And De-Stress
The MSC Aurea Spa, recognized for its excellence, serves as a sanctuary of tranquillity and indulgence on board, providing a variety of beauty and wellness therapies designed to dissolve stress.
For those preferring to unwind under the sun, the solarium offers a splendid open-air retreat for ultimate relaxation.
Experience a live show
You don’t need to travel all the way to New York to witness premier shows anymore. Our cruise ship boasts Broadway-calibre theatres that host a dazzling array of performances, featuring an international roster of artists.
Choose from our exceptional program; there’s bound to be a show that captures your heart. Enjoy world-class entertainment without ever leaving the comfort of the ship.
How Do I dress on a cruise?
At least once per sailing, during which passengers are encouraged to dress up. While you rarely see tuxedos or evening gowns, suits and cocktail dresses are quite common.
Additionally, ships usually host several themed nights, such as White Parties, ’70s, or ’80s Night, Hawaiian or even Mexican during each sailing. It’s a good idea to bring along a few themed items.
CPD Conference Partner
Education at Sea
Can I Bring the Family?
Because a cruise is such a fabulous holiday experience, your family and friends can join you on your CPD Travel adventure.
Whilst you are attending lectures there are heaps of activities to keep them busy including an exceptional kid’s club program.
Simply talk to the Team at Education at Sea, they can organise all your and your travelling companion’s travel arrangements.
What if I need kid-free time?
If you want to mix only with adults, most ships have an area with entry only available to people over the age of 18..
Guests will jump for joy upon discovering this private retreat where they can connect with the ocean – and disconnect from everything else.
Can you give me some tips on Cruising?
We sure can……whether you are a seasoned cruiser or this is your first time onboard a cruise ship our Ultimate Guide to Cruising is sure to have some useful tips and advice to ensure you have a fantastic time on this Travel CPD adventure.
Can you organise for me to share a room with someone?
We can’t promise – but we can pop your name on a waiting list and if another person asks the same question we can put you in contact with each other and you can decide if you are both compatible to share a cabin.
Contact the fabulous team at Education at Sea on 02 7908 7774 for more information.
WHAT OUR ATTENDEES HAD TO SAY
I met some wonderful nurses who have become friendsI learnt so much at this conference so it was very worthwhileHaving a holiday at the same time on board a wonderful cruise ship topped it off.
Penelope
Informative conference, a good presenter! Friendly delegates and great facilities! Wonderful cruise liner with beautiful places to see! An amazing opportunity to expand my knowledge as well as travel. Thank You.
Zilvie
I went to a Nurses for Nurses network conference in Queenstown last year and enjoyed it. I have signed up for another trip next year. Cruise through the Panama Canal.
Rae
This CPD was one of the most engaging, relevant and immediately implemented CPD I have ever attended. There were so many takeaways.
Nicola
Use coupon code NCPDREF to get a 20% discount.